PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (May 24, 2023) – Irma Fowe, a five-year BS/MS mechanical engineering student at Prairie View A&M University, has wanted to help others ever since childhood. “I used to go to my village to help people. The same is true here in the USA. Since 2019, I have created a support group for women, where I have been helping them love themselves, promote entrepreneurship, and exercise for health and wellness,” she said.
Now, the Cameroon native is getting an opportunity to hone in on her passion as a member of the National Humanities Leadership Council. The organization, established by the National Humanities Center, is an institute for the advanced study of human society and culture. The center regularly offers programs to aid education and scholarship.
Fowe, along with recent PVAMU graduate Stanley Hamilton ’23, are participating in a unique series of interactive experiences with other scholars and leaders from across the country. They are learning about different humanistic perspectives in addressing the concerns of contemporary society. With the knowledge gained, the students may bring the information to their peers so they can begin to address the challenges facing the next generation together.
“Studying humanity will help me organize well, learn about and become familiar with the resources that are available, know the policies associated with them, and, lastly, learn how to reach more people,” said Fowe, an Honors Program student.
She continued with her story, speaking about her humble beginnings. “I was born and raised in Cameroon. I was privileged to get a good education and an opportunity to come to the U.S. 12 years ago. Learning the language and adapting was not easy. I think I am privileged, and I want to use my experience to revolutionize the concept of humanity. I want to contribute as someone coming from the Third World and help women.”
When Fowe learned of her acceptance to the council, she was extremely happy and couldn’t wait to tell her family and friends. None of them were surprised by the news, as they said it was very befitting of her personality and career aspirations.
“My goal is to create an international organization that will support women and empower them. My direct goal is to use my social platform to connect to people all around the world and teach them using my personal experience,” Fowe said. And she has not wasted any time pushing towards that dream, as she has already made progress towards reaching her goals.
“Prairie View showed me that anything is possible as long as we are working hard,” Fowe added.
By Jo-Carolyn Goode ‘00
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