This episode features Cecilia Wandiga, Executive Director of the Centre for Science and Technology Innovations (CSTI) in Nairobi, Kenya. Cecilia’s work brings science and storytelling together in a way that makes complex research practical and relevant for communities facing environmental and climate challenges.

In our conversation, we explore how science connects our stories, grounding them in knowledge and shared reality, while storytelling frames science in ways that make it personal, memorable, and actionable. Cecilia shares how CSTI translates climate research into practical solutions for communities, the role of citizen science in driving local engagement, and the barriers that can make scientific progress difficult to implement. We also discuss the importance of trust in community-led initiatives and how meaningful storytelling helps align people around shared goals.

If you’re thinking about how to make complex ideas more engaging, bring diverse communities into the conversation, or turn specific knowledge into real-world action, you’ll want to hear what Cecilia has to say.

Connect with Cecilia Wandiga & CSTI:

• Follow Cecilia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliawandiga/
• Follow the Centre for Science and Technology Innovations (CSTI) on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/centre-for-science-and-technology-innovations-csti/

Check out more from Storylinking:

• Go behind the scenes of this episode: https://storylinking.com/blog/ep11
• Full show site: https://storylinking.com

Key Moments from This Episode:
01:30 Introducing Cecilia Wandiga and CSTI

02:11 CSTI’s Mission and Early Work

03:19 Challenges and Innovations in Climate Adaptation

07:13 The Role of Storytelling in Science Communication

09:38 Personal Background and Influences

24:53 Biochar: A Multifaceted Solution for Energy and Sustainability

35:52 The Ice Block Conundrum: Making New Ideas Familiar

37:12 Citizen Science in Action: Engaging the Public in Research

40:32 How to Successfully Engage Communities in Climate Solutions

43:47 Cultural Barriers to Science and How to Overcome Them

53:49 Staying Optimistic in the Face of Global Challenges

57:20 Practical Advice for Community Builders on Science & Storytelling