Dr. Adetokunbo Martins is an author, educator, mother, and advocate passionate about creating pathways for underrepresented students in STEM. With a doctorate in education, Dr. Martins’ research focuses on enhancing the academic self-efficacy of Black and Hispanic high school students in STEM fields. Her work is deeply rooted in her own experiences growing up in New York, where she helped her mother in her African market. Now, as a mother herself, she is even more committed to ensuring that children from all backgrounds see themselves represented in literature and education. Her debut children’s book, The Class of Smarties, shares stories that celebrate diversity and inspire confidence in young learners. Through her work, she aims to empower the next generation of thinkers and innovators, starting with the local communities that inspire her.