Finding Direction Through Mentorship: Vasongi's Story.

There comes a point in the lives of many young African women when the question is no longer "What am I studying?" but "What comes next?"For some, that question arrives after graduation. For others, it comes while pursuing higher degrees, building careers, or trying to make sense of the future they have worked so hard towards. For Vasongi Adeline from Cameroon, that moment came while pursuing her Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. On paper, everything looked fine. She was advancing academically and doing what many would consider the "right things." But internally, she was wrestling with a question many young professionals know too well: How do I position myself for the future when I don't even know where to begin?

We sat down with Vasongi to learn more about her journey, what led her to Inspire Her Afrika, and how mentorship is helping her find direction.

What was life looking like for you before Inspire Her Afrika?

As I approached the end of my academic journey, I started thinking more seriously about my future. I realized that despite years of studying and striving for excellence, I didn't really know how to navigate the job market or strategically position myself for the career I wanted. A lot of people would probably say, "Just start a business." But for me, that wasn't my immediate plan. I have always believed that beginning with a professional career would give me valuable exposure, managerial experience, organizational skills, and industry knowledge that I could later build upon. I wanted to learn first. I wanted to grow first. The challenge was that I didn't know where to start. I needed direction, clarity and mentorship.

How did you discover Insire Her Afrika? 

I came across the Inspire Her Afrika Mentorship Program while looking for opportunities that could help me grow professionally. Something about it immediately stood out to me. I remember thinking, "Why not apply? This could be the opportunity you've been searching for. This could be the guidance you need." So I took the chance and submitted my application.

What was your reaction when you got accepted?

Honestly, I was extremely excited. The acceptance email felt like an answer to a need I had been carrying for a while. I was excited because I knew I would finally have access to mentorship. I would be able to connect with someone who had experience, someone who could guide me, help me make informed decisions, and provide clarity when I felt unsure. Sometimes, all you want is someone who has walked ahead of you and can simply say: "You may want to consider this path." That felt incredibly reassuring, it felt like hope and the beginning of clarity. 

What has the bootcamp experience been like so far?

The experience has been amazing. Beyond the learning sessions, I have had the opportunity to connect with fellow bootcampers who are equally passionate about growth, learning, and self-development. Being surrounded by ambitious young women has been inspiring in itself. It reminds you that you're not the only one trying to figure things out. You're not the only one asking questions about your future. There's something powerful about learning in community.

For women currently struggling with imposter syndrome or self-doubt, this conversation continues at our upcoming Virtual Mastery Session. 

In this panel session, we’re bringing together African women who have been where you are; women who have questioned whether they belong, doubted their abilities, and shown up anyway. They’ll be sharing their experiences with imposter syndrome in their careers and what they’ve learned about navigating it without letting it hold them back.

🔗 Register here: https://luma.com/imx8m2cj

What practical skills have you gained so far?

One of the things I've enjoyed the most is learning how to use Google Workspace tools effectively. From Google Docs to Google Slides and Google Calendar, these tools may seem simple, but they have genuinely improved how I organize my work and life. I can now plan my weeks better, manage documents more efficiently, and collaborate professionally using personalized access settings and shared workspaces. These are practical skills that I know will continue to benefit me both academically and professionally.

Many young women feel stuck or uncertain about their next steps. What would you say to someone currently feeling that way?

I would tell them that uncertainty is not the end of the journey. Sometimes, not knowing exactly what comes next is simply a sign that you're in a season of discovery. The important thing is to keep seeking opportunities that help you learn, grow, and gain clarity. Growth often begins when we step out of uncertainty and take a chance on opportunities designed to help us evolve. You may not have all the answers today, but that doesn't mean you should stop moving.

What does Inspire Her Afrika mean to you now?

For me, Inspire Her Afrika represents direction, growth, and possibility. It has reminded me that sometimes the opportunities we need most are the ones that challenge us to take a chance on ourselves. So far, this journey has shown me that mentorship is more than advice. It's guidance. It's accountability. It's community. Most importantly, it is the reminder that you don't have to navigate your future alone. And if there's one thing I'm carrying with me from this experience, it's this: Sometimes, all a person truly needs is guidance, community, and someone who believes in their potential enough to say: "You can do this."

Collated by 

Marvelous, for the IHA Team.