From the Laboratory to the Water Sector: My Journey in Science and Service
My name is Susan Mueni Kamole, and I currently work as a Water Quality Assurance and Control Officer at The Water Project in Western Kenya. My professional journey has been one of determination, resilience, and a passion for science. Looking back, I can confidently say that every challenge I faced helped shape the person and professional I am today.
Beginning My Journey in Science
My journey into science began in 1992 at The Kenya National Polytechnic, where I pursued a Certificate in Science Laboratory Technology. During those days, science and technical courses were considered male-dominated fields. In a class of about 40 students, only two of us were women. Despite the imbalance, I remained focused and determined to succeed.
Five Years of Searching
After completing my studies, I faced one of the most difficult seasons of my life. For five years, I searched for employment without success. Coming from a humble background, I lacked connections and financial influence. Many interview panels questioned not only my qualifications but also whether a woman could effectively work in a laboratory environment. At the time, there was a widespread belief that technical and scientific jobs were more suitable for men.
A Fresh Start in Western Kenya
In 1996, I made a life-changing decision to relocate from the Southeastern region of Kenya to Western Kenya. It was there that I secured employment at Kakamega High School as a laboratory technician. I later rose to become the Senior Laboratory Technician in charge of the Chemistry, Biology, and Physics laboratory technicians, working specifically in the chemistry laboratory. I worked there for 21 years.
Those years taught me discipline, consistency, and professionalism. Managing school laboratories required accuracy, organization, and a strong sense of responsibility. I handled laboratory chemicals, prepared experiments, maintained equipment, and ensured safety standards were observed at all times. Working with students and teachers also strengthened my communication and leadership skills.
However, my desire to grow professionally did not stop there. I later joined Sigalagala National Polytechnic to pursue Analytical Chemistry. Furthering my education helped sharpen my technical knowledge and gave me greater confidence in my career.
Entering the Water Sector
In March 2018, I transitioned into the water sector and joined The Water Project as the pioneer Water Quality Assurance and Control Officer. Moving from the school laboratory environment into water quality management was both exciting and challenging. The experience opened a new chapter in my professional journey and expanded my understanding of public health and environmental safety.
My current role involves ensuring that the water supplied to communities meets the required safety and quality standards. Water quality is directly connected to human health, and this responsibility has made my work deeply meaningful. Every day, I participate in activities such as water sampling, laboratory testing, monitoring treatment processes, and ensuring compliance with health and environmental regulations.
Work That Protects Lives
One of the most fulfilling aspects of working in the water sector is knowing that my work contributes to protecting lives. Clean and safe water is essential for every community. Through testing and monitoring, we help prevent waterborne diseases and ensure that families have access to safe drinking water.Looking Back, and Looking Forward
The water sector has also taught me the importance of teamwork and adaptability. Unlike the controlled environment of a school laboratory, fieldwork in the water projects often comes with unpredictable challenges such as weather conditions, difficult terrain, and emergency situations. These experiences have strengthened my problem-solving skills and taught me to remain calm under pressure.
Encouraging Young Women in Science
As a woman working in science and technical fields for many years, I have witnessed positive changes in society. Today, more women are joining scientific careers, and opportunities are becoming more accessible. However, there is still a need to encourage young girls to pursue science-related courses without fear or intimidation.
I always tell young women that passion, determination, and hard work matter more than stereotypes. Women are capable of excelling in laboratories, engineering, water management, and every other scientific field. My own journey is proof that persistence can overcome barriers.
Looking Back, and Looking Forward
Looking back at where I started, I feel grateful for every step of the journey. From struggling to secure employment after college to serving communities through water quality management, the experience has been both challenging and rewarding. Science has not only given me a career but also an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in society.
My hope is that my story will inspire other women and young professionals never to give up on their dreams. Success may take time, but with commitment, resilience, and faith, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve great things.
What a man can do, a woman can also achieve with excellence.
Written by Susan Mueni Kamole
Water Quality Assurance & Control Officer
The Water Project
Learn more about Water & Health: https://thewaterproject.org/why-water/health
Read about The Water Promise: https://thewaterproject.org/water-promise
Check out our Live Impact Map: https://thewaterproject.org/our-water-projects?page=3
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