Today we’d like to introduce you to Asha Kabirou.
Hi Asha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I am a wife and mother of five beautiful children. Growing up, I’ve had the best of both worlds where I’ve learned from many struggles, but also had other luxuries that many did not have the privilege to experience. I had my first child at 18 and immediately saw the world in a different light. While I’ve always been a very ambitious person, the birth of my son was a huge motivation to accomplish as much as I could to provide a better life for him.
I graduated with him from high school entered college three weeks after giving birth and completed my first semester with a 4.0, 18 credits, and a part-time job. While it was very tough, I was very motivated. A few years later, I graduated undergrad with my second child and a bachelor of science from Towson University, where I focused on biology and the function of animals. I didn’t easily get into the field because of the competitiveness of biological backgrounds, but that didn’t stop me.
As time went on, I became the lead ophthalmic technician for the Retina Group of Washington and graduated with my master’s in biotechnology with a specialization in biodefense and biosecurity, a few months after the birth of my third child. So, I’m sure you can see a pattern here with the birth of children and degrees. My mom, who was a huge motivation in my life, unfortunately, passed away the same year I graduated with my master’s, and after landing a unique position in the government. She was able to see me accomplish a lot, but my world crashed.
Since then, I’ve had to find ways to deal with anxiety, depression, the list goes on. However, I found motivation in inspiring other mothers to continue to press on, despite what life may present. My inspiration was recently highlighted at the first Mom conference in Baltimore, Maryland, The Nü You Conference, where I served as a cohost for the event. It was an amazing experience to inspire other mothers to dive deep into the super mom that they are, but to also know their kryptonite and to lean on their tribe.
It was such an amazing experience and became a full circle moment because I looked at the many faces of mothers who went through the same things I experienced. To stand up and be an inspiration to all is an honor that I will forever cherish.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I am now has not been an easy one, but I appreciate every obstacle and trial that I have experienced. I wouldn’t be as resilient as I am today. One of my biggest struggles has been the loss of my mom. I miss her so much and long for her to see the person I’ve evolved into.
I wish she could see all the grandbabies she’s hoped for, and I wish she could celebrate all these pivotal moments with me. Since the birth of my last child, my health has plummeted and I’ve been faced with postpartum depression, anxiety, and other health conditions. I do know that is not the end of my story, but the beginning of what’s yet to come.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I serve as a Scientific Program Analyst focused on supporting basic and applied research to better understand, treat, and prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases. I am known for being a team player and being a Swiss Army knife.
I’m very knowledgeable and serve as a great resource to many. I’m most proud of serving in a capacity that promotes the betterment of public health. I couldn’t have asked for a better career.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was very adventurous and I asked a lot of questions. This probably explains my career path involving the scientific field. I enjoyed writing poetry and during my middle school years, I wrote songs and knew I would be a famous singer or rapper.
I laugh at it now, but I appreciate the creativity I had. I also loved playing volleyball, dancing, and spending time with my family. I cherish those moments the most.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Life_with_rai
Image Credits
Just Shoot Photography and Mohamed Aiyegbo
