Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements of African Americans, recognize their role in U.S. history and reflect on the continued struggle for racial justice. RiskSpan is joining the celebrations in featuring some of our own members, their stories and perspectives. At RiskSpan, we welcome individuals from different backgrounds, experiences and opinions and are committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace in which all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
Our first feature spotlight is on Aminah Ambakisye. In her own words, learn about her role, her motivations, and how her grandmom impacted her professional aspirations.
Tell us about your Role in RiskSpan and the team you work with.
“I work on the MRM team. I am one of the associate analysts on the team.”
What is most exciting about the work you do at RiskSpan?
“The most exciting thing about the work I do at RiskSpan is that I get to work with different models for every project.”
Who is a person in black history that has shaped your professional career?
“Growing up I did not know about very many famous black people outside of sports. I only learned after my Grandmother died what she did for her career. My Grandmother was one of the black female employees at NASA that helped with the space program to put a man on the moon. When I learned this, I also learned my Grandmother valued education and believed was the most important thing in life. My Grandmother died when I was young, but I always wanted to make her proud of me, so I decided at a young age I wanted to go to college to make her proud. While in college is when I discovered what type of career I wanted to have. Although my Grandmother did not directly shape my professional career, she did have an impact on it.”
What motivates you to come to work each day?
“I would like to get better at my job which is why I come to work every day.”
What is something you love about your black culture/heritage and would like to share with your colleagues?
“Something I enjoy about my black culture is the music.”
What is your favorite quote or mantra?
“A quote I like is “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” – Dr. Mae Jemison.”
What would be your advice to young black women wanting to join this industry?
“My advice for young black women wanting to join this industry is that they should take their schooling very seriously.”
Lastly, if you had a superpower, what would it be and what would you first use it for?
“I would choose teleportation and travel the world.”
