Tayo Deffo Loic Steve, President of CERCARMU
📢 Leading with Vision
Hailing from Cameroon, Tayo Deffo Loic Steve brings a unique blend of technical skill and leadership to his role as President of the Cameroonian Students’ Association at the Regional Maritime University (RMU), also known as CERCARMU. His path to RMU is the culmination of years of dedication, beginning with his studies in Boilermaking and Welding, in which he earned an HND from the Institut Supérieur LaSalle in Douala, Cameroon, in 2019. This early foundation in heavy metalworking and fabrication introduced him to the demanding standards of engineering and provided a glimpse into the maritime sector’s inner workings, especially as his internships exposed him to large-scale industrial operations.
Tayo’s journey into the maritime field was heavily influenced by his internships, where he honed his skills as an assistant welder at leading companies like Cameroon Mining Group, Prometal, and Ener Industry. These hands-on experiences allowed him to see how foundational welding and metalwork are to constructing and maintaining maritime and industrial infrastructure. Seeing the practical applications of his work in such significant projects sparked a deeper interest in the maritime industry, motivating him to expand his technical expertise and knowledge. This led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Engineering at RMU.
Path to Leadership
Upon joining RMU, Tayo quickly recognized the importance of a supportive community for Cameroonian students studying abroad. With language barriers and a rigorous academic program, he saw how challenging it could be for new students to adjust. Driven by a desire to strengthen the sense of unity among his peers, Tayo became an active member of CERCARMU, participating in various events and helping incoming students transition smoothly. His proactive nature and ability to connect with others did not go unnoticed, and soon, he was encouraged to take on leadership responsibilities within the association.
Tayo’s journey to becoming President was not without its challenges. He had to learn how to lead a diverse group of students, balancing academic pressures with his responsibilities to CERCARMU. However, his passion for creating a supportive, connected community of Cameroonian students fueled his commitment. His experiences as an intern, working in team-oriented, high-stakes environments, had taught him the importance of clear communication, strategic thinking, and resilience—all skills he now applies in his role as President. Under his leadership, CERCARMU continues to thrive, supporting its members academically, socially, and culturally.
Overview of the Role
As President of CERCARMU, Tayo acts as the primary representative and decision-maker for the association. His responsibilities include setting the association’s agenda, coordinating with university authorities, and ensuring that all activities align with CERCARMU’s mission to support and uplift Cameroonian students at RMU. Tayo brings a hands-on approach to leadership, personally engaging with members and actively participating in planning and executing events. Unlike many leaders who prefer to delegate extensively, Tayo believes in leading by example, frequently working alongside his team to ensure the success of each initiative.
In addition to his responsibilities within CERCARMU, Tayo also collaborates with other student associations and university departments. This collaborative approach has strengthened CERCARMU’s presence on campus and allowed the association to build valuable partnerships that benefit its members. Tayo views his role not just as a figurehead but as a facilitator, helping his team realize their ideas and ensuring that every member’s voice is heard.
Impact on the Association
Under Tayo’s leadership, CERCARMU has initiated several projects aimed at enhancing the university experience for Cameroonian students. One of his proudest achievements is organizing orientation programs for new students, which help them acclimate to the university environment and navigate common challenges, such as language barriers and cultural differences. Additionally, Tayo has introduced workshops on career development and academic support, recognizing the importance of providing students with resources that extend beyond the classroom.
Tayo also spearheaded the creation of a mentorship program within CERCARMU, where senior students guide newer members through academic and personal challenges. This program has been instrumental in building a supportive network among Cameroonian students, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual assistance. Though organizing such initiatives requires significant time and effort, Tayo’s dedication to his peers drives him to continue finding new ways to support their academic and personal growth.
Daily Responsibilities
A typical day for Tayo as President involves balancing his academic commitments with his duties to CERCARMU. He starts his day by checking in with the association’s executive team, ensuring everyone is aligned on current projects and addressing any immediate concerns. Throughout the day, Tayo may attend meetings with university officials, represent CERCARMU at campus events, or work on logistical arrangements for upcoming activities. He also spends considerable time responding to members’ questions and concerns, whether they pertain to academic challenges, housing issues, or social events.
Course Details
Tayo is currently pursuing a BSc in Marine Engineering, a rigorous program that covers a wide range of technical subjects, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and ship machinery operation. His course provides both theoretical knowledge and practical training, with lab sessions and hands-on projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges.
Practical Applications
The practical components of Tayo’s studies are where he feels most engaged. Building on his HND in Boilermaking and Welding, he approaches each project with a keen understanding of materials and fabrication processes. In his first year, he participated in a group project focused on engine maintenance, where his welding experience proved invaluable in assembling and repairing machine components. These experiences have reinforced his technical skills and deepened his appreciation for the meticulous work involved in marine engineering.
Personal Growth and Challenges
The transition from Cameroon to RMU was challenging for Tayo, especially due to language barriers and the demanding nature of the Marine Engineering program. However, he embraced these challenges as opportunities for growth, frequently seeking help from professors and peers to improve his English and technical understanding. This perseverance has not only helped him excel academically but has also strengthened his resolve to succeed in a competitive industry.
Career Aspirations
Tayo’s ultimate goal is to become a marine engineer, working on the maintenance and operation of vessels. He is particularly interested in sustainable maritime practices and hopes to contribute to the development of more efficient, environmentally friendly marine engines. His role in CERCARMU has also sparked an interest in leadership, and he aspires to take on managerial roles in the maritime industry where he can mentor and inspire other young engineers.
Industry Insights
Through his studies and leadership role, Tayo has gained valuable insights into the maritime industry. He is especially aware of the growing demand for eco-friendly technology, which has motivated him to focus on green engineering solutions. He frequently reads industry publications and follows trends in renewable energy applications within marine engineering, seeing it as a promising direction for his career.
Future Plans
After graduating, Tayo plans to work with a leading maritime engineering firm, ideally in a role that allows him to work on projects related to renewable energy. He is particularly interested in companies that are pioneering advancements in eco-friendly marine propulsion systems, as he believes this aligns with his vision of a more sustainable industry.
Hobbies and Passions
Outside of his studies and leadership responsibilities, Tayo enjoys playing soccer and exploring various cultural activities that connect him to his Cameroonian heritage. He also has a keen interest in welding projects, often creating small metal artworks during his free time.
Cultural Identity and Connection
Tayo’s Cameroonian identity is a central part of his life, influencing his commitment to CERCARMU and his desire to support his fellow students. Being away from home, he finds great value in celebrating Cameroonian culture through events organized by CERCARMU, which help him and his peers maintain a sense of belonging.
Why CERCARMU Matters
For Tayo, CERCARMU represents more than just a student association—it is a lifeline for Cameroonian students navigating life in a foreign country. He views CERCARMU as an essential support system that helps students succeed academically and socially.
Impact on Peers
Tayo has positively impacted his peers through initiatives that emphasize community and personal growth. He has become a mentor for many students, offering guidance and support that extends beyond academic advice.
Vision for the Future of CERCARMU
Looking ahead, Tayo envisions CERCARMU as a stronger, more connected association that provides even more resources and support for Cameroonian students. He hopes to establish partnerships with organizations outside RMU to enhance opportunities for members.
Tayo’s journey as President of CERCARMU has taught him the importance of resilience, empathy, and strategic thinking. Balancing his studies with his leadership responsibilities has been challenging, but it has also been gratifying.
Message to Future Leaders
Tayo offers this advice to future Cameroonian students: “Embrace challenges and never hesitate to ask for support. Being part of CERCARMU means you’re never alone on this journey.”