Winnie Msamba is a 2017 Bezos alum from Tanzania. Her team’s South African Ideas Festival explored innovative ways to overcome community challenges through entrepreneurship and leadership. This experience taught her the power of potential and that when anyone is given an opportunity, they have the power to act as a catalyst for change. Winnie is currently a senior at the United States International University-Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, where she is studying international relations. As an aspiring economics analyst, Winnie plans to pursue a master's degree in development studies so that she can contribute to policies that empower and actively promote the socio-economic participation of women and youth across Africa. As a Project Manager with Africa Harvest, Ltd., Winnie focuses on climate justice and adaptation projects where she centers the protection and well-being of youth and women from the impacts of climate change. 

Enjoy getting to know Winnie through ten semi-random questions and answers. 

You attended the BSP Alum Reunion back in September. What was one of your favorite moments from being in community with other alum? I have a lot of favorite moments! One thing that stands out from the weekend is the TED workshop. At the end of the workshop, people kept saying to me, “thank you for being here today,” and it meant so much to me to participate and be acknowledged in our group activity.  

What is currently piquing your interest? Over the course of the last two semesters, I took a course on African philosophy. This course piqued my interest as it highlighted ideas around enlightenment, physics and medicine which led me to do research on Imhotep, Zera Yacob, and Anthon Amo who are all extremely fascinating. 

If you had a theme song, what would it be and why? Bob Marley and The Wailers, Three Little Birds. This song is one of hope and reminds me that worrying doesn’t get people anywhere anyway so I use it as a reminder that, “everything will be alright.” 

Reflecting on a challenge you have faced, what was a choice you made during that time and the change that occurred because of it? I turned down a job offer because I felt that the responsibilities of the role were in my comfort zone; the pay was good, but I knew that I wouldn't have grown in the position. I made the decision to turn down the offer and deal with the uncertainties, which was very difficult. Looking back, I made the right decisions because I prefer the uncertainties over comfort.  

Scholar’s Choice: Question: What does the world need right now? I believe that the world needs children and youth at the decision table. Children and youth are the next generation and the people who are going to make a difference in the world when given opportunities and resources. 

At this moment in your life, what are you most proud of? I just finished my undergraduate thesis titled, “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Harness Youth Entrepreneurship for Economic Development in Tanzania.” I am very proud of the time and effort I put into it.  

Where is the next place on your travel bucket list? Why this location? I’m planning a trip with my sister to South Africa; we’ve never traveled together so it has been very exciting. I've lived in South Africa before, but I never had the chance to explore. Having the chance to do it with her is truly a blessing. 

If you had a podcast, what would it be about? My podcast would definitely be about climate change in developing countries. The title would be, “Environment is Part of Human Rights: Let’s Talk About It.” I would host this podcast because I believe in putting equity and human rights at the core of decision-making and the action we take on climate change. 

What is something you’ve learned that you'd offer to others in the BSP Alumni Network as advice? Do everything with excellence, even if no one is watching. 

What is the one thing you’re deeply grateful for right now? I am grateful for my family. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn't be here today. 

Thank you, Winnie! We’re grateful to have you as part of the Scholar community.