International Day of Women and Girls in Science
As the world marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, the story of Sr. Nancy Owili stands as a powerful reminder that faith and science can walk hand in hand in the service of humanity.
Sr. Nancy, a member of the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus, is a nuclear scientist with a strong passion for cancer science. Her journey into this demanding field began with deep curiosity and an even deeper desire to serve.
“My journey began with a strong desire to serve humanity through knowledge,” she explains. “I was drawn to nuclear science because of its important role in cancer medicine, especially in early diagnosis. I saw it as a way of using science to improve lives.”
Her research focuses on early cancer detection using nuclear techniques, including the TXRF machine. With three research publications to her name, Sr. Nancy says the most rewarding part of her work is knowing that her efforts contribute to better healthcare and give hope to patients and families.
“Seeing my work contribute to early cancer detection and better healthcare gives me satisfaction,” she says. “Knowing it helps in saving lives gives meaning to what I do.”
A Vocation Rooted in Service
For Sr. Nancy, science is not separate from her religious calling. Instead, it flows directly from it.
“My faith taught me that my talents are gifts meant for service,” she says. “Whatever potential I have is not for me alone. It is to serve society and make it better.”
This understanding gave her courage to enter a field often perceived as male-dominated. She faced stereotypes and the challenge of having few female role models. At times, she admits, the journey was not easy.
“There were moments I felt like giving up. Sometimes I would cry,” she shares honestly. “But I reminded myself why I started. I chose to believe in myself and stay focused.”
Support from lecturers, mentors, siblings and her religious community strengthened her resolve. Through perseverance and determination, she pressed on.
Today, she sees her scientific work as part of her vocation. “Prayer gives me strength and clarity,” she says. “I manage my time well and see my research as service. I believe this is what God called me to do.”
She is convinced that faith, science and religious life complement one another. “Science provides solutions and faith provides values. Without values, without asking why we are doing what we are doing, science can lose meaning. Together, faith and science promote ethical and humane responses to society’s challenges.”
A Message to Young Girls
On this International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Sr. Nancy has a clear message for young girls in Kenya and beyond:
“Believe in yourself. Do not fear science. It is meant for you. It is meant for us.”
She encourages girls not to allow stereotypes to limit their dreams. “You have what it takes. Work hard. Seek mentors. We are here to guide you.”
She also believes women bring unique gifts into the scientific world. “Women bring clarity, creativity, compassion and leadership. They should be innovators shaping inclusive and responsible science.”
Looking back, she would tell her younger self to be patient and to trust the journey. “Take each day step by step. If you fall today, tomorrow is another day. Do not fear failure. Every challenge is a lesson.”
A Hopeful Future
Sr. Nancy believes the future of science in Kenya and Africa is promising, especially with more women and religious embracing research and innovation.
“With more women involved, we will see stronger innovations and better solutions for our society,” she says. “I hope people see that faith, science and service can work together.”
Her life and work send a simple but powerful message: science belongs to everyone.
“It is for me and for you,” she says with conviction. “As long as you try and believe in yourself, you will realise that what is meant to be, can be.”
On this day dedicated to women and girls in science, Sr. Nancy Owili’s story shines as an inspiring testimony that knowledge, when guided by faith and compassion, can truly become a force for hope and healing.
