At the heart of BioTalent’s mission is a commitment not only to delivering top talent but also to fostering diversity and inclusion within the life sciences sector. In this interview, we hear from Yasin Ahmed, one of BioTalent’s Senior Consultants, a proud East Londoner with deep roots in a multicultural community.
As a Race in STEM ambassador, he shares his passion for challenging stigmas, empowering underrepresented voices, and creating spaces where diverse perspectives can drive meaningful change. Discover how his background and experiences have inspired his dedication to advocating for inclusion and supporting the next generation of STEM pioneers. Race in STEM founder Steve Fuller sat down with Yasin to hear his views.
Can you tell us about you and your role at BioTalent?
I am born and bred in Newham, East London which is home of the hammers (my favourite football team). I’m pretty sure I am the tallest person here at Investigo and my role at BioTalent is of a Senior Consultant and I focus on working with Biotech/Pharma companies in the early stage of drug developments; this is usually called Drug Discovery, Pre-Clinical Development or Translational Development.
What stood out for you to want to become a Race in STEM ambassador?
Growing up in a very multi-cultural area I have always been immersed in different cultures, ways of thinking, food, music and so much more. However, being around this I always noticed that there were always certain stigmas around certain races and cultures, and this put many roadblocks in the way of aspiring people. So, by becoming an ambassador I want to be a voice to the voiceless.
If you had 30 seconds to explain what Race in STEM is, what would you say?
Race in STEM is about giving a voice to the voiceless, it is about giving a platform for those who may not have the right environment to speak up about their troubles, roadblocks, successes and their path to success. It also gives them a platform to advise and inspire the next generation of pioneers in STEM. This is not just about race though, it’s about different communities and people regardless of who they are coming together and being able to spark a difference and make a change across STEM.
In STEM, is there an area you are most passionate in and why?
For me specifically, the area I would be most passionate about is being able to support females in STEM. Because I come from a culture that has usually frowned upon women being able to make a name for themselves and as a result so many intelligent women have given up on dreams and give into culture.
For the next generation I want them to be able to make a difference and chase their dreams and not give into the pressures and ideology that my culture puts on women.
Why should people join the Race in STEM community?
Because it’s not just about Race. We are a community who want to bring in different people, thoughts, ideas, cultures, beliefs to be able to force a change from the top down across STEM.
Reach out to the team today to see how you can get involved - and make sure you subscribe to the monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything that's happening in the Race in STEM world.