Our #STEMsation Spotlight is on the amazing Tinaye Lydia Muzenyi!

Who is Tinaye Lydia Muzenyi?

When a young Tinaye Lydia Muzenyi was growing up in Zimbabwe and Botswana, the idea of becoming an engineer — let alone pursuing a PhD — would have seemed almost laughable to her. Not because she doubted her abilities, but because she rarely saw women who looked like her in STEM fields. Back then, her fascination with buildings and structures, particularly hotels and resorts, led her to envision a future in tourism and hospitality instead.

Life, however, had different plans. Today, Tinaye holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and has worked as a Graduate Structural/Civil Engineer for two years. Her hunger for knowledge and characteristic determination led her to Canada, where she completed her Master of Engineering in just eight months while juggling part-time work — a feat that speaks volumes about her dedication.

Now deep into her PhD research, Tinaye is focusing on construction safety, working to create a safer industry for workers. But her impact extends far beyond the technical realm of engineering. She's become a powerful voice for representation and mentorship in STEM, understanding firsthand the profound impact of seeing someone who looks like you succeeding in spaces where you never thought you belonged.

Whether she's teaching, creating content, or simply showing up authentically in spaces where women — particularly women of color — are often underrepresented, Tinaye is deliberately taking up space and dismantling stereotypes. Her mission is clear: if her story can inspire even one girl to pursue a career in STEM, she knows she's making a difference that matters.

Job Title/Duties	Years
Civil Engineer / PhD Student	4

Special Awards:

2024 Paul F. Gans Graduate Scholarship
2024 Best Student Paper Award – Canadian Society for Civil Engineering Conference
2019 Engineering Fellow – Women in Engineering (WomEng)
2018 Team of The Year Award – University of Zimbabwe

Specialized Training/Education:

Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering (Ongoing)
Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering specializing in Project Management

How did you choose to pursue this field?

Honestly, my journey into civil engineering wasn’t exactly planned—it was more of a happy accident. Growing up, I was always fascinated by buildings and structures, especially hotels and resorts, but I assumed that meant a future in tourism and hospitality.

Engineering wasn’t even on my radar. It wasn’t until I started researching career options after high school that I stumbled upon civil engineering, and something just clicked.

The more I learned, the more I realized that I had found my calling. It combined my love for problem-solving, creativity, and the built environment in a way I had never considered before.

Plus, I loved the idea of seeing something tangible come to life from the work I’d be doing. From that moment on, I knew this was the path I wanted to take, and I haven’t looked back since.

Who was your inspiration or role model that guided you to this field?

To be honest, I didn’t have a specific person guiding me into engineering—at least not in the way most people do. Growing up, I didn’t see many women in STEM, let alone civil engineering, so I didn’t have that direct role model to look up to. But if I had to name an influence, I’d say my father played an indirect role.

He never pushed me toward engineering, and we didn’t have deep discussions about his work, but in hindsight, just seeing him navigate the field made it feel less intimidating when I eventually discovered it for myself. Somehow, I still ended up following in his footsteps, just with my own twist.

Other than that, my biggest inspiration has been the women I’ve met along the way, those breaking barriers, making space for others, and proving that we belong in this field. They may not have guided me into engineering, but they’ve definitely inspired me to stay and thrive in it. Now, I hope to be that kind of role model for the next generation of women in STEM.

Did you always have the desire to work in this field?

I know I’ve mentioned this before, but in an effort not to sound repetitive – no, I didn’t always plan on working in this field. Growing up, I was really just drawn to beautiful buildings, especially hotels and resorts, but I never connected that interest to engineering.

I thought my future was in tourism and hospitality. I imagined myself managing luxury destinations, creating unforgettable guest experiences, and traveling the world. STEM wasn’t even on my radar.

The change came when I discovered that I could be part of designing and building them. That shift in perspective changed everything for me. I realized that engineering could bring my interests together in a way I had never considered before. It would blend creativity, problem-solving, and the built environment so from that moment on, I just knew I had found my place.

What do you love most about your job?

What I love most about my job is the perfect blend of problem-solving, creativity, and real-world impact. Engineering isn’t just about calculations; it’s about transforming ideas into real-world solutions that make an actual difference.

I also love how multifaceted and versatile the field is. One day, I could be working on buildings, and the next, I’m tackling challenges in water systems, transportation, or civil infrastructure. No two projects are ever the same, and that constant variety keeps things exciting.

There’s always something new to learn and fresh challenges to take on which makes every day both dynamic and exciting.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your job or career?

The most rewarding aspect of my career has been realizing that everything we do in engineering is ultimately for people. Whether it’s designing safer structures, improving infrastructure, or researching ways to make construction more efficient, the end goal is always to create something that benefits others.

So, knowing that my contributions, no matter how small, help people in tangible ways makes this career truly rewarding. I’ve also found fulfilment in the human connections I’ve made along the way from collaborating with teams, working with clients, and even mentoring future engineers.

Lastly, the opportunity to inspire and support others, especially young women in STEM, has been the most rewarding part of it all. Seeing someone gain confidence in their abilities, take up space, and push boundaries because they saw me do it? That’s definitely a feeling that never gets old.

What things would you change about your job?

While I love what I do, there are definitely things I’d like to see change, especially when it comes to representation and inclusivity in engineering and STEM as a whole. Engineering is still a male-dominated field, so I’d love to see more women, particularly women of colour, not just entering but thriving in this space.

The industry has made progress, but there’s still work to be done in ensuring diverse voices are heard, valued, and given equal opportunities.

Another thing I’d change is bridging the gap between research and real-world application. There are so many incredible innovations in engineering and construction safety but implementing them on a large scale can sometimes be slow due to several reasons including resistance to change.

I’d love to see a stronger push for research-driven solutions to be adopted more quickly within industry.

What has been the most difficult or disappointing aspect of your job?

Honestly, one of the most difficult aspects of my job has been navigating a male-dominated industry and constantly feeling like I must prove myself more than my male counterparts. There have been moments where I’ve spoken up in meetings and been ignored, only for a man to say the same thing and suddenly, it’s a great idea.

I’ve had my expertise questioned, assumptions made about my role, and moments where I’ve felt the need to overprepare just to avoid being dismissed.

Another disappointing aspect of the job are the everyday subtle biases like the surprised reactions when I tell people I’m the engineer for a project, the subtle scepticism when I explain my work, or the feeling that any mistake I make will reinforce stereotypes rather than just being seen as a normal learning experience.

A lot of the times, it feels like I have to be twice as good just to be seen as competent, and that pressure can be exhausting. What’s worse is it follows me even outside of work, the assumptions never really stop.

People ask me if I’m sure I want to be in this field, or they’re surprised that I chose something so “manly” and tough. It’s really just a constant reminder that, even though progress is being made, there’s still a long way to go in shifting perceptions about who belongs in engineering.

How have you combated the stigma of being a "woman of color" in STEM?

It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to stand my ground and not let other people’s doubts become my own. When I walk into a room where I’m the only woman or the only Black woman, I remind myself that I’ve earned my place here just like everyone else.

I no longer feel the need to over-explain my qualifications or prove why I belong, I let my work speak for itself. I’ve also had to unlearn the idea that I have to be perfect to be respected.

There’s this unspoken pressure to never make mistakes because it feels like you’re representing more than just yourself which in fact you are. But the reality is, learning and growth are part of the process, and I refuse to carry the burden of other people’s biases.

Another way I’ve fought the stigma is by finding my voice and using it. I don’t downplay my expertise, and I don’t let myself fade into the background. I own my space and refusing to shrink myself to make others comfortable. Whether I’m in meetings, classrooms, or industry spaces, I make sure my contributions are heard.

Lastly, I’ve also been very intentional about the people I surround myself with. I’ve built a strong support system, surrounding myself with mentors, peers, and other women in STEM who understand these challenges and remind me that I’m not alone in this journey.

At the end of the day, I really combat this stigma by simply showing up, taking up space, and refusing to let outdated perceptions define my career for me.

What tips would you offer for anyone thinking about entering into your profession?

My biggest tip is "Go for it", unapologetically. Engineering, especially as a woman or a person of colour, can feel intimidating at times, but that doesn’t mean you don’t belong. If you have the passion and the drive, don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.

Having said that, here are a few other things I’ve learned along the way:

1. Confidence is key. You won’t always feel like the smartest person in the room, and that’s okay. Heck, if you’re the smartest person in the room all the time then you’re definitely in the wrong room. So, just trust that you are capable and don’t be afraid to speak up and own your space.

2. Ask questions. Never be afraid to ask, whether it’s in class, at work, or in a meeting. No one knows everything, and asking thoughtful questions shows that you’re engaged, willing to learn, and thinking critically. The smartest people aren’t the ones who know it all, they’re the ones who never stop learning.

3. Be curious and open to learning. Engineering is constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to discover. Stay curious, keep improving your skills, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

4. Find mentors and a strong support system. Having people to guide and uplift you, whether they’re professors, industry professionals, or peers makes a huge difference. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

5. Resilience matters. There will be setbacks, difficult courses, workplace challenges, or moments of doubt. Push through them. The ability to keep going, even when things feel overwhelming, is what will set you apart.

6. Allow yourself to feel. Sometimes, it really is a dog-eat-dog world out there, and things will get tough. You’ll have moments where you feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or even completely out of your depth. And that’s okay. If you need to cry or scream; let it out (maybe just not in front of the people who will use it against you). Bottling everything up will only make it harder so acknowledge the hard moments, process them, pick yourself back up and keep pushing forward.

7. Celebrate your wins. It’s easy to focus on what’s next, but don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come. Whether it’s passing a tough exam, landing a new opportunity, or simply making it through a challenging week, recognize your progress. Small wins build momentum, and every step forward is worth acknowledging. Remember that success is built on consistent effort, one step (small win) at a time.

8. Have fun with it. Engineering is a field that allows you to solve real-world problems and create meaningful impact. Enjoy the process, embrace the challenges, and find joy in the journey.

What advice would you give your younger self about your career journey as a "woman of color" working in a predominantly white, male-dominated field?

If I could sit down with my younger self, there’s so much I’d want to say. But if I had to choose just a few things, it would be this:

You belong here, and you don’t need to prove it to anyone. There will be moments when you feel like an outsider. Sometimes it’ll be because you don’t see many people who look like you, while other times it may be because you have to work twice as hard just to be taken seriously but don’t let that shake your confidence. You are just as capable, just as deserving, and just as qualified as anyone else in the room.

Your colour is not a weakness, it’s a strength. There may be times when you feel the need to shrink yourself or dim your light; to soften your presence or be more palatable; to avoid standing out. Don’t! The very things that make you different, the experiences, the resilience, the perspective you bring are your superpowers. You don’t have to fit into anyone else’s mold; create your own.

You won’t always have all the answers and that’s okay. You’ll have days where you feel overwhelmed, where you question if you’re good enough, or where imposter syndrome creeps in. Feel your feelings, but don’t let them define you. The people who succeed in this field aren’t always the smartest ones but they’re the ones who refuse to give up.

And most importantly find your people. Not everyone will understand your journey, and that’s okay. There are mentors, peers, and women who have walked this path before you so lean on them, learn from them, and let them remind you that you’re not alone. The road won’t always be easy, but every challenge you face will make you stronger and one day, you’ll look back and realize you didn’t just survive in this space, you thrived.

So, baby, stand tall, take up space, and never shrink yourself to fit someone else’s expectations. You are enough. You always have been.

Can you provide some words of wisdom to young ladies considering entering a STEM field as a career choice?

STEM isn’t just for a select few, it’s for the curious, the problem-solvers, the innovators, and the changemakers. If you’re passionate about it, don’t let fear, doubt, or outdated stereotypes hold you back. You don’t need all the answers right now; you just need the willingness to learn and the confidence to keep going.

There will be moments when you feel like an outsider, when you don’t see many people who look like you, or when you feel like you have to prove yourself a little more than others. Push through anyway. Your voice, your perspective, and your ideas are needed in these spaces. STEM needs you.

What is your favorite Quote? How do you apply this to your life?

I actually have three quotes that I live by and they’ve gotten me through some of my toughest moments.

“Aim for excellence, not perfection.”

As someone who’s a perfectionist, this one is a constant reality check. I’ve always set ridiculously high standards for myself, and for the longest time, I thought anything less than perfect wasn’t good enough. I’ve had to learn that perfection is an illusion, it’s just a moving target that keeps shifting the more you chase it so chasing it can hold me back more than push me forward.

For example, there’ve been times where I held back from submitting work, speaking up, or even celebrating my achievements because I felt like I could have done better. This quote, therefore, reminds me to focus on excellence instead which is simply doing my best, learning from mistakes, and growing along the way. Progress matters more than perfection.

“What if I fall? Oh, but darling, what if you fly?”

I overthink everything, my brain will literally come up with a million ways something could go wrong before I even take the first step. So, as you can imagine every big opportunity comes with more uncertainty than normal for me, but this quote shifts my perspective and reminds me that success is just as possible as failure.

What if things actually work out? What if I end up doing better than I ever imagined? The only way to know if I’ll fly is to actually take the leap.

“Dear Black Child, you are capable.”

This one hits deep. As a Black woman in STEM, I’ve been in spaces where I was the only one who looked like me. I’ve had moments where I questioned if I truly belonged, where I felt like I had to work twice as hard just to be noticed.

This quote, though, is a constant affirmation that I am more than capable. I don’t need permission to take up space. I don’t need to prove my worth, I already belong.

What are your future goals related to your career?

Oh, I have a lot of goals, very ambitious ones too but at the heart of it, all I want to do is to make an impact, leaving a mark both in engineering and in the lives of others.

The first milestone on my journey is to complete my PhD and in the near future, I do aspire to go back into the field and practice as an engineer. While I love research and teaching, there’s just something about being hands-on, solving real-world problems, and seeing projects come to life that excites me.

At some point, I do see myself returning to academia, bringing back everything I’ve learned from the field and research to shape the way future engineers are trained. I definitely want to be in spaces where I can teach, mentor, and contribute to research that has real-world impact. I believe education should be more connected to industry realities, so I’d love to play a role in making that happen.

I also just love being in spaces where I can help others grow, whether it’s in a classroom, through mentorship, or through the content I create. So, beyond just sharing knowledge, I see content as a powerful tool for representation, accessibility, and inspiration in STEM.

I want to use my platform to demystify engineering, share my experiences, and create a space where others, especially young women and people of colour, can see themselves thriving in STEM. Representation matters, and through teaching, mentorship, and content, I want to be the kind of role model I wish I had when I was younger.

Additionally, I want to expand my influence, whether it’s through public speaking, consulting, or industry leadership, to help shape conversations around diversity and inclusion in engineering. There’s still so much work to be done in creating spaces where women, especially women of colour, feel seen, heard, and valued in STEM.

Beyond that, I aspire to pursue leadership roles, not just within engineering firms or universities, but in influential spaces where decisions about STEM, infrastructure, and policy are made. There’s still a lot to be done in shaping safer, more sustainable, and more inclusive engineering practices, and I want to be in the rooms where those conversations happen. Therefore, through leadership, consulting, or policy work, I want to help drive meaningful change within the industry.

Ultimately, I aspire to have a career that blends technical expertise, hands-on experience, education, and advocacy. I’m not just here to be part of the industry but I’m here to help shape its future.

What are some interesting facts about yourself that you would like to share?

One of the things I’m most proud of is completing my Master of Engineering degree in just eight months, even though the expected duration was two years. Growing up in Zimbabwe and Botswana shaped my outlook on life, giving me a deep appreciation for different cultures and the power of community.

That same sense of belonging and leadership led me to start the UZ Panthers Tennis Club, which has since blossomed into a thriving community.

I also have a slightly unhealthy obsession with Formula 1 and tennis, if I’m not working or creating, I’m probably watching a match or a race. Speaking of creating, I’ve fallen in love with content creation, even though, for a long time, I resisted it.

There’s often this stigma that engineers or science students aren’t creative, and I let that hold me back, despite how much I enjoyed it. Now, I fully embrace both my technical and creative sides, and I love using content as a way to share, inspire, and just relax.