Deconstructing Cultural Barriers to Girls’ Education

In this episode, Eli Cahan (’19 cohort) speaks with Ayo Dada (’19 cohort) who imagines a world where education is accessible to everyone regardless of any aspect of their identity. Ayo shares his journey from Nigeria to Stanford—an unexpected path set in motion by a single email—and reflects on how discovering Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset shaped his academic trajectory. He discusses his early steps after studying psychology at the University of Lagos, his PhD research on psychologically wise interventions, and his current postdoctoral work focused on expanding opportunities for girls in underserved regions. Ayo also reflects on how the Knight-Hennessy Scholars community broadened his perspective, the skills he gained through the program, and the global experiences that continue to inform his commitment to education as a collaborative, empowering process.

Highlights from this episode:

(2:08) Introduction

(2:48) Recounting the journey from Nigeria to Stanford and how one email changed everything

(4:38) Reflecting on the influence of Carol Dweck’s work on growth mindset

(6:22) Exploring his path after studying psychology at the University of Lagos

(7:58) Describing his current postdoctoral work expanding opportunities for girls in underserved regions

(9:05) Discussing his PhD research on psychologically wise interventions

(14:02) Reframing education as a collaborative process

(19:54) How Knight-Hennessy Scholars complemented his experience at Stanford

(25:13) Identifying the main skill he gained from Knight-Hennessy Scholars

(27:15) Takeaways from his Global Travel/Study program trip to Norway

(30:00) Highlights from the Global Leadership Program

(33:10) Remembering favorite Knight-Hennessy Scholars traditions