Tackling digital poverty through engineering and empowerment
When facing digital poverty, access to technology and information can be life changing. For Sekinat Saka, also known as Seki, an IET member and a Chartered Engineer at Atkins, this was the reality of her challenging journey into STEM.
Using the skills and experiences she built along the way, Seki is determined to help bridge the digital divide not just for herself, but to empower others facing similar challenges. Her story is one of resilience, inspiration, and a deep commitment to giving back.
Balancing academic demands and a young family
“I was a first-year electrical engineering student in Nigeria when an IEE representative visited our polytechnic. Their talk was inspiring; it opened my eyes to what an engineering career could be and how the Institution could help me achieve my aspirations.”
That moment sparked a lifelong connection with the IET and a vision for what was possible. After moving to the UK from Nigeria to pursue further studies, Seki completed her BSc degree in electrical engineering and went on to pursue a master’s degree to broaden her career prospects. But securing employment proved challenging, especially when raising two young children. She found being able to strike a balance with academic demands and parenting responsibilities was no easy feat.
But it was during this time Seki applied for the IET bursary, a significant step that made a pivotal difference. With the support of the bursary, she was able to purchase a high-end laptop, an essential tool that allowed her to work efficiently from home rather than relying on university facilities.
“That flexibility meant I could manage childcare responsibilities while keeping up with my coursework,” she recalls. “I graduated with a strong grade without compromising precious family time.”
Since then, Seki has built a successful and varied career across multiple areas of electrical engineering from highway construction to building services design supporting both public and private sector projects. But her impact goes far beyond the technical work she has produced.
Empowering others through volunteering
Inspired by the hurdles she overcame, Seki became passionate about mentoring and supporting the next generation of engineers, especially those facing similar challenges.
This led her to join as a IET volunteer where she regularly mentors students from her former university who are experiencing digital poverty. She helps them prepare for job applications, interviews and tackling early career hurdles. Seki also works closely with mentees to review their job roles, aligning them with their aspirations, strengths, and growth areas.
In addition to contributing to numerous events, she has taken on roles such as Professional Development Scheme and Professional Registration Assessor. Most recently, she accepted an invitation to join the Professional Development Operations Committee. Her work has helped guide early-career engineers toward professional registration both in the UK and internationally, including in India.
One particularly memorable experience Seki recalls was serving on the accreditation panel for Shell’s graduate scheme.
Three developing engineers from Shell Nigeria presented their work, and the panel was so impressed with their competency that they recommended the engineers apply for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.
“The satisfaction on their faces was unforgettable,” Seki says. “They realised their work was recognised not just locally, but internationally. It removed boundaries and gave them the freedom to explore opportunities anywhere in the world.”
Her advice to others?
“I know from experience that access to technology and information is a game-changer. My advice is to make use of professional networks like the IET, online learning resources, and community initiatives that can help bridge that gap.”
Today, Seki continues to shape others through volunteering. It has boosted her confidence in mentoring, sharpened her professional judgment, and provided insights she applies in her own work and within her team.
Her journey is a testament to how gaining access to knowledge and connection can overcome barriers and how the right support can transform a career.
Read more of Seki’s incredible story here.