Sunny day in Lebaye! The team hosted GOE-DEEP's founding mother, Karen Bakakas. In addition to fruitful discussions on the Franceville Basin, we discussed the positive impact of our drilling project on the future generation of Gabonese geologists. Karen emphasised how her interactions with the international community have contributed to her development as a scientist. Her advice for female students? "Identify yourself as a problem-solver, not by your gender." She encouraged confidence, stating that if you are self-assured, people will treat you the way you deserve. Karen, thank you for making this dream a reality!