In a captivating journey that seamlessly intertwines the worlds of science, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, Dr. Shara BA Cohen has emerged as a true trailblazer. With her impressive background as a research scientist and lecturer, she has transitioned into a successful entrepreneur, leaving an indelible mark on the academic and business realms. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Cohen to delve deeper into her inspiring story and learn more about her ventures.
Q: Dr. Cohen, your journey from research scientist to entrepreneur is truly remarkable. Can you share with us how this transition came about?
Dr. Cohen: Certainly! My journey took an unexpected turn in 2000 with the birth of my first daughter. The arrival of motherhood sparked a desire for greater flexibility in my career, and I felt a newfound entrepreneurial ambition bubbling within me. It was at that moment that I made the courageous decision to step away from mainstream science and venture into the world of entrepreneurship.
Q: Your first venture, Euroscicon Ltd, was a resounding success. Can you tell us more about the company and its mission?
Dr. Cohen: Absolutely! Euroscicon Ltd, which I founded in 2000, aimed to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the wider public. We provided comprehensive life science communication services, including organizing events, conferences, and publishing scientific materials. The goal was to make scientific knowledge more accessible and foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the life sciences among the general public.
Q: After the success of Euroscicon Ltd, you continued to establish and support various businesses and charities. What motivated you to embark on these ventures?
Dr. Cohen: The taste of entrepreneurship and the impact I was able to make with Euroscicon Ltd fueled my passion for supporting businesses and charities. I recognized their potential as agents of positive change in local, national, and international communities. Drawing on my expertise and network, I began actively working with and establishing organizations that aligned with my values and had a profound societal impact.
Q: One notable endeavor you founded is Mums in Science. Could you shed some light on the organization and its mission?
Dr. Cohen: Certainly! I founded Mums in Science in 2005 with the aim of addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the workplace, specifically in the field of science. Too often, talented women are forced to leave scientific careers due to the constraints of motherhood. Mums in Science provides a supportive network that offers resources, information, and a sense of community for women navigating the complexities of balancing career and family while staying involved in the scientific field.
Q: Another remarkable venture you established is Cancer Care Parcel. Could you share the inspiration behind this initiative?
Dr. Cohen: Certainly. In 2013, I personally experienced the challenges of battling breast cancer. During that time, I realized the scarcity of opportunities for individuals affected by cancer to relax, find solace, and take care of themselves. This inspired me to create Cancer Care Parcel in 2017, a project aimed at providing moments of calm and support for both children and adults facing cancer. We curate thoughtful gift packages that offer comfort, practical assistance, and emotional support, reminding those with cancer that they are not alone in their journey.
Q: Your work is truly commendable, Dr. Cohen. What drives your passion for combining science, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy?
Dr. Cohen: Thank you for your kind words. For me, the key lies in recognizing the power of science and entrepreneurship to effect positive change in society. By combining these realms, we can bridge gaps, empower individuals, and make a tangible impact on people’s lives. Philanthropy
