FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Najatte, and I’m a chemical engineering student at North Carolina A&T State University. I was born in Niamey, Niger, and moved to the United States when I was young. I’m passionate about using science and innovation to develop sustainable solutions, particularly in energy and the environment. On campus, I serve as Event Coordinator Co-Chair for the Society of Women Engineers and volunteer with STEM Early College students to support and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders. As a FOSSI scholar, I’m committed to academic excellence, leadership, and making a meaningful impact in my community. My long-term goal is to pursue a master’s degree at an Ivy League university and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in clean technology.
I’ve discovered that with hard work, faith, and mental fortitude, there’s truly nothing I can’t accomplish
FOSSI: What moment or experience sparked your love for STEM?
My love for STEM was ignited in high school through a series of transformative moments that reshaped how I see the world. It started when I received an award for earning the highest chemistry grade in my entire graduating class; that recognition showed me I had both the skill and genuine passion for science. From there, I dove into hands-on projects, such as designing and building props for a Black History Culture Café, constructing a robot, and helping create a race car from scratch for competition. These experiences brought STEM to life for me in ways textbooks never could. But the most powerful influence came from my STEM teachers, especially the Black women who encouraged me to dream bigger and helped build the foundation of my passion. Ever since, I’ve craved the satisfaction that comes from tackling difficult problems. My mind now thrives on challenge, and that drive fuels my love for STEM.
FOSSI: What did it feel like when you found out you received the FOSSI scholarship?
Pure relief. When I got the call, I literally screamed with joy. I finally felt like I could focus on growing, learning, and getting more involved on campus without the constant weight of financial stress. Words can’t fully capture the overwhelming gratitude, relief, and happiness I felt—and still feel as I’m typing this. Being selected as a FOSSI scholar reminded me that all my hard work is paying off and that I truly belong in this space.
FOSSI: Who inspires you, and what have they taught you about what’s possible?
The people who inspire me most are my long-time CTE teacher from Northwest, Ms. Wanda Jenkins, and my parents. They live by the mindset of “how big would you dream if you knew you couldn’t fail?” Through their guidance and example, I’ve discovered that with hard work, faith, and mental fortitude, there’s truly nothing I can’t accomplish. They’ve taught me that my journey won’t look like anyone else’s—and that’s perfectly okay. What matters is staying focused, moving with grace, and remaining confident in my purpose.
FOSSI: What kind of impact do you hope to be making ten years from now?
Ten years from now, I hope to create meaningful change not just through engineering innovations, but by inspiring others to believe in themselves and their potential. I want to impact my community by helping people dream boldly and fearlessly, as if failure were never an option. I want to teach that mindset, apply it in my work, inspire it in others, and carry it forward together. I also want to show people that rejection is simply redirection, and that caring for your mental, emotional, and physical well-being matters just as much as chasing your goals. To me, true impact means building a better world while also building stronger, more confident individuals.
FOSSI: What are some surprising or unique facts about you?
Two surprising facts about me: I was born in Africa and speak a second language fluently.
Hear more from Najatte about why pursuing a STEM degree is important to her.
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