Women In Science

SPECIAL EDITION 2019

WOMEN IN SCIENCE

HOME OF

IDEAS THAT WORK

NurturiNg

COUNCIL FORA SCIENTIFIC New Generation of Researchers AND INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH

The CSIR wants to be at the forefront of developing and building a pipeline of competent young researchers to enter the science, engineering and innovation community. A studentship from the CSIR offers students an opportunity to gain practical experience, which supports their theoretical studies and also bridges the gap between academia and practice.

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, commonly known as the CSIR is a leading scientific and technology research organisation in Africa. The organisation undertakes Dr to SinDiSiwe Buthelezi is part University of Cape directed and multidisciplinary research foster industrial and scientific development and Town. In May of a CSIR team that is developing 2013 she received a professional contributes to the improvement of the quality of life of South Africans.

diagnostic and drug targets for HIV development programme grant from and cancer. Buthelezi first joined the the National Research Foundation CSIR as an intern, having completed which enabled her to complete her an honours degree in biochemistry PhD in biochemistry in 2017, through CSIR VISION and cell biology. She secured a CSIR the University of the Witwatersrand, studentship for an MSc degree in while being hosted at and coWe are accelerators of socio-economic prosperity in South Africa through leading innovation. medical biochemistry through the supervised by the CSIR.

CSIR MISSION zanele ntShiDi is a CSIR candidate

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, commonly known as the CSIR, is a world-class organisation that undertakes directed, multidisciplinary research and technological innovation that contributes to the improved quality of the lives of South Africans.

We draw expertise from diverse research fields, such as the built environment, defence and security, energy, health, industry and the natural environment to provide integrated solutions and interventions to support public and private sector programmes. Our scientists, engineers and technologists are enabled by our state-of-the-art research infrastructure and share a passion for shaping a better future through science and technology innovation.

Cape. She is part of a team of CSIR plants on the orchard scientists that is studying the use of floor use during the CSIR VALUES water in apple orchards in the Western different stages of the Our beliefs, principles and the impact we wish to make to improve the quality Cape. Ntshidi was awarded funding orchards. of life of South Africans are through EPIC. Team CSIR pursues Excellence, celebrates People, the CSIR’s Young Researcher personifies Integrity, and welcomes Collaboration.

Establishment Fund and the Thuthuka Ntshidi presented her work at an Funding Instrument of the National international water conservation Research Foundation to conduct conference in Paris, France, in 2017. research on quantifying the water She was also selected to take part in the To find out more about our work and how you can collaborate with us contact us. requirements of exceptionally high3rd BRICS Young Scientists Forum, in Tel: 012 841 2911 | Email: enquiries@csir.co.za | www.csir.co.za yielding apple orchards and orchards Durban, in June 2018.

It is this combination of excellence in research, competent staff and world-class infrastructure that puts the CSIR at the cutting edge of research and technological innovation to improve the quality of life of South Africans.

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of different ages. Ntshidi

Collaboratively innovating and localising while providing knowledge researcher whotechnologies is studying towards is particularly interested solutions for the inclusive and sustainable advancement of industry and society. her PhD at the University of Western in how much water the

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CONTENTS CONTENTS

ED’S NOTE

FEATURES

1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3

3

LETTER FROM

5 INSPIRATION

6

9

0

THE EDITOR

Top 5

Editor • Shani Tsai

Mind your own business!

QUICK Q

“The most potent weapon of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed” – these are the words of Steve Biko, one of the most iconic black freedom fighters.

So, just as Biko encouraged his people to discover themselves, embrace their history and strengthen their values, we urge you – women of all colours, ages and with all interests – to fully fight for what you want to achieve despite your circumstances and in spite of all the challenges you may face.

IMPOSTER SYNDROME

3 TOP READS

4

THE SCIENCE BEHIND BEAUTY

9

BRAIN FOOD

0

what your GRADES MEAN

REGULARS

4 1 3 3 3 3 3 3

1

4

team Science Stars

TECH:– SAFETY APPS

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

COVER STORY

SCIENCE NEWS

1

AVAILABLE BURSARIES

2

QUIZ

3

PUZZLES

4

ANSWERS

5

FACTS

6

SCIENCE CENTRE

This issue is a special one – it’s been created entirely by women and for women. And while we appreciate the great works of men in the STEM field, we’re excited to have more and more women take the lead in the future.

Graphic designer • Stacey Okkers Contributing writers • Zakiyah Ebrahim Chairman • Madambi Rambuda Ambassador • Prof. Azwindinni Muronga Sales & Marketing Rep • Ntombizanele Thangayi

Subscriptions • info@sciencestars.co.za Copyright 2017 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission.

Science Stars is published by Roswika Media.

Our minds are unbelievably powerful, we already know that. On p35, we have 10 facts on the human brain and on p27, we have the top superfoods you’ll need on your plate during the exams. We also cover Imposter Syndrome on p20 – uncovering the ways in which we might doubt ourselves and our success. On a more inspirational note, we feature three women who are taking the STEM world by storm – led by one superwoman… turn to p4 to meet them.

So when we say “Mind your own business” we mean pay attention to what you’re doing – put all your thoughts into the path you’ve embarked on. If you want to follow a career in STEM, it’s more than possible… because you’re a woman!

To the guys, help your friends and sisters in their STEM path by introducing this magazine to them if they don’t already know it. Enjoy!

Shani Tsai Editor

10th Floor, The Pinnacle 2 Burg Street Cape Town, 8000 021 839 2507 info@sciencestars.com www.sciencestars.co.za

PROFILE CONTENTS

PROFILE COVER FEATURE

DRIVEN BY PASSION HOW A GROUP OF INSPIRING MEMBERS IS CHANGING THE SCIENCE GAME, ONE WOMAN AT A TIME. By: Zakiyah Ebrahim

T

here are very few women in science,

and comprises support networks for black

and even less black women. But

female university students in science to

Ndoni Mcunu has managed to claw

develop writing and training in their final

Quick questions...

1. What is the greatest lesson you’ve

her way into a man’s world and make great

year of study, right up to PhD. It also

strides in paving the way for South African

encourages school children, particularly

women to follow in her footsteps.

rural learners, to take up STEM subjects.

To know that mistakes are not a reflection

“I believe that education is a tool to enable

of your ability, but a lesson to be and

Mcunu is the founder and CEO of Black

improved and informed personal and

do better.

Women in Science (BWIS) – a registered

professional decisions. It could also be

NPO that aims to promote STEM careers

a tool to empowering rural and

2. What is the one piece of advice you’d

among black women. The 30-year-old

disadvantaged young women to improve

like to give to other black women?

go-getter is also currently working towards

their livelihood,” she said in her TEDxCT

her PhD and is studying the effects of

talk last year.

learnt as a black woman in STEM?

Understand the full system of your field: make sure you know your applicability in

climate change on agriculture, ecological systems and food security for farmers in

In 2017, she was the recipient of the

Sub-Saharan Africa at the Global Change

Young African Leaders Initiative Mandela

Institute at the University of the

Washington Fellowship. Her passion for

Witwatersrand (WITS).

women's development, education and poverty alleviation in Africa also earned

Establishing BWIS was inspired by her own

her a spot on the Top 50 Thriving Female

journey in the scientific field. Throughout

Founders 2019 by digital entrepreneurial

varsity, Mcunu had never been lectured or

platform Thriving.Network.

supervised by black females, which made her realise the dire shortage of black

Women in science are finally starting to

women in science. Her concern about the

realise that they are equally as capable and

lack thereof prompted her to establish BWIS

deserving of roles in STEM as their male

in 2016 in partnership with the Department

counterparts, and Mcunu is a driving force

of Science and Technology.

in this. “The more of us in previously male-

the business, science and research industry.

3. Who are the two women that inspire you the most, and why?

Dr Judy Dlamini and Dr Precious Motsepe.

They have expanded their skill base and knowledge beyond science and have not limited their abilities to only the science industry. They have shown that science teaches you skills to lead in various industries. They also have a heart for community development and believe in the development of black people.

dominated fields, the better the chances

6

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

The organisation engages more than

of new generations realising anything is

300 members in mentorship programmes

attainable,” she told True Love last year.

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

7

PROFILE

PROFILE

KOLISA SINYANYA

F

ascinated by the secrets of the ocean, Sinyanya is currently a PhD candidate in Physical Oceanography

SHE’S A JOLLY GOOD FELLOW! WE MEET THREE WOMEN WITH BIG DREAMS.

at the University of Cape Town (UCT). She’s chosen to

specialise in Marine Biogeochemistry and uses nitrogen isotopes to explore how phytoplankton communities use nutrients to pump carbon dioxide into the ocean’s interior, making planet earth habitable.

Not only is she a BWIS fellow, but is also an Inspiring Fifty Women in STEM nominee 2019, and a TEDx speaker.

Sinyanya is a trailblazer with a passion to make education accessible to all.

GILLIAN D. MAHUMANE

M

ahumane graduated with her Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in 2013 and received her Master’s of Pharmacy (with Distinction) in 2016. She is

currently pursuing her postgraduate degree at the department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology at WITS. She joined BWIS as a fellow in 2019.

Gillian believes there is a gap in science and society and that science is an incredible mounting generator of facts that can be used to educate, improve and correct previous misinformation about the world we live in.

However, generating that scientific information requires a village, but with platforms like BWIS, she believes we can begin bringing the jewels of science forth, and make it more inclusive and effective.

8

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

PROFILE

HOME OF

IDEAS THAT WORK

NurturiNg A New Generation of Researchers

YVONNE DUBE

D

ube decided to embark on a journey to study the formation of the earth and specialised in Geology at the University of the Free State.

The CSIR wants to be at the forefront of developing and building a pipeline of competent young researchers to enter the science, engineering and innovation community. A studentship from the CSIR offers students an opportunity to gain practical experience, which supports their theoretical studies and also bridges the gap between academia and practice.

She explains her explorative nature craved more knowledge in the field of earth ecosystems, so she went on to complete her honours in Hydrogeology that focused on groundwater and underground pathways and systems.

She’s currently in the final stages of her Master’s degree in designing robust, continuous water quality observation systems and plans to complete a PhD degree in modelling Earth Systems. It’s an uphill battle that tests one’s character, she feels, and says that one needs a community of support and assistance in reaching one’s full potential, and that BWIS was that community for her.

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, commonly known as the CSIR, is a world-class organisation that undertakes directed, multidisciplinary research and technological innovation that contributes to the improved quality of the lives of South Africans.

We draw expertise from diverse research fields, such as the built environment, defence and security, energy, health, industry and the natural environment to provide integrated solutions and interventions to support public and private sector programmes. Our scientists, engineers and technologists are enabled by our state-of-the-art research infrastructure share a and mentorship *BWIS also has aand new networking passion for shaping a better future through science and technology innovation. platform called BWIS Connect. This platform aims to connect women scientists to the science

It is this combination of excellence in research, competent staffecosystem and world-class infrastructure through current forum discussions that puts the CSIR at the cutting edge of research and technological innovation to improve and profiling. Register today to havethe access to quality of life of South Africans. their forums on current issues facing women in science.

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Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

csir

Visit www.csir.co.za/publications to read more about stories on talent, success and opportunities!

Dr SinDiSiwe Buthelezi is part of a CSIR team that is developing diagnostic and drug targets for HIV and cancer. Buthelezi first joined the CSIR as an intern, having completed an honours degree in biochemistry and cell biology. She secured a CSIR studentship for an MSc degree in medical biochemistry through the

University of Cape Town. In May 2013 she received a professional development programme grant from the National Research Foundation which enabled her to complete her PhD in biochemistry in 2017, through the University of the Witwatersrand, while being hosted at and cosupervised by the CSIR.

zanele ntShiDi is a CSIR candidate researcher who is studying towards her PhD at the University of Western Cape. She is part of a team of CSIR scientists that is studying the use of water in apple orchards in the Western Cape. Ntshidi was awarded funding through the CSIR’s Young Researcher Establishment Fund and the Thuthuka Funding Instrument of the National Research Foundation to conduct research on quantifying the water requirements of exceptionally highyielding apple orchards and orchards

of different ages. Ntshidi is particularly interested in how much water the plants on the orchard floor use during the different stages of the orchards.

Ntshidi presented her work at an international water conservation conference in Paris, France, in 2017.

She was also selected to take part in the 3rd BRICS Young Scientists Forum, in Durban, in June 2018.

NEWS

GIRL TALK! GIRLS CONTINUE TO TAKE THE LEAD IN STEM – HERE ARE THE LATEST SUCCESS STORIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. By: Zakiyah Ebrahim

Eersterust girls chosen for coding workshop Sixty of Pretoria’s Nantes Primary School girls in grade 6 and 7 were chosen to attend a Microsoft coding workshop recently. They will be trained by CodeJika as part of #MakeWhatsNext – a Microsoft project that has upskilled more than 293 600 young girls since its inception.

SA Women in ICT (SAWI ICT) Forum recently launched the Lift As We Rise initiative at Microsoft Policy Innovation Centre, Future Africa Campus at the University of Pretoria.

Deputy Communications Minister Pinky Kekana, who was the key speaker, said: “A lack of female representation means we are lacking the perspectives of half the world’s population. Increasing the participation of girls and women can help bridge this gap, which in turn will allow the workforce to access a treasure trove of untapped potential – and boost the region’s gender equality in the process.”

Female students outnumber males in A-level science entries After decades-long efforts to encourage female students to take up science, maths and technology, it finally became a reality in the UK this year after discovering that female students taking exams in A-level science overtook males for the first time.

Not only are girls taking up STEM subjects now more than ever before, but they’re also overturning gender expectations when it comes to their results. An article by The Times noted that while boys are getting higher top grades in english, girls are performing better in maths and physics than in previous years.

However, although positive progress has been made, scientists warn that the improvement should not take away from the fact that several subjects, including maths, still remained heavily populated by male students.

13

APPS

TECH TALK: SAFETY APPS It’s a scary world at the moment, especially for women.

Here are a few ways of keeping help at your fingertips.

Life 360 This app allows you to create a group to which your closest friends and family can be added, and enables location sharing amongst members. Heading out alone or with public transport? Notify your loved ones and allow them to track your movement until you reach your destination safely.

Bonus: If you’re involved in a n accident, the app will signal an alert to your contacts as well as send an ambulance out to the site. You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple iStore. Visit life360.com for more information.

bSafe With this app, you’ll have access to a social safety network that you choose yourself. Make sure to add people who are often in close proximity to you as well as people who are usually easy to contact. You can activate your GPS so your contacts can track your movement and set a timer so that if you haven’t notified them of your safety within a certain period, an alert will go off.

Bonus: Users also have the option of sounding a loud alarm signal or a silent alert, depending on the situation you may find yourself in. You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple iStore. Visit getbsafe.com for more information.

MiBlackBox While the main aim is always to prevent danger and come out of dangerous situations without being harmed, having evidence against an attacker is always a good idea! MiBlackBox is a virtual witness and automatically records and saves calls, images and videos on your phone – whether it’s a smartphone or a basic mobile phone.

Bonus: The data is encrypted and saved to a secure location, so even if your phone is stolen or destroyed, the data can be retrieved. You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple iStore. It costs just R12 per month for the use of the service. Visit miblackbox.co.za for more information.

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

15

TRENDING TOPIC INSPIRATION

INSPIRATION: GLADYS WEST SHE NAVIGATED HER WAY FROM A FAMILY OF FARMERS TO BEING INSTRUMENTAL IN THE CREATION OF GPS. HERE’S HOW...

W

e use it when we’re driving from province to province, when using Uber and to see the distance between two places, but how did the

GPS get to be as influential as it is today? We take a look at Gladys West’s contributions…

Gladys Mae Brown was born in 1930 in a rural area in the US. She decided at an early age that her path would take her out of the fields and into an education. Towards the end of her high school career, she obtained a bursary to Virginia State University which, at the time, was a public black university. She decided to study mathematics as her major, which saw her attending classes dominated by men. She completed her degree and went on to obtain her Master of Mathermatics degree in 1955.

In 1956, she was employed as a programmer (and one of

"(I was) always doing things just right, to set an example for other people who were coming behind me, especially women”

only four black employees) by the Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Virginia. She also worked as the project manager for the data-processing systems that were used while

She became know as the “hidden figure” and one of the

analysing data.

“human computers” for her mathematical work that lead to the invention of the GPS.

Brown found love – for her job and for one of the staff members she worked alongside. She married Ira West the

Last year, at the age of 87, West was inducted into the

next year, in 1957, and they went on to have three children.

United States Air Force hall of fame at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. for her contributions.

In the 1960s, West was part of an award-winning astronomical study that explained Pluto’s rotation regularity

Since retiring from Dahlgren in 1998 (after 42 years!), West

in relation to Neptune’s. She became increasingly interested

has gone on to complete her Ph.D in Public Adminstration.

in the shape of the earth and, from the mid-1970s to the

Despite her massive contribution to life as we know it,

1980s, programmed a computer to look at the effects of

she admits that she prefers using a paper map over a GPS

gravity, ocean tides and other forces. These findings laid the

system but ultimately, she trusts her brain over them all –

basis of of the GPS (global positioning system).

and we can now understand why!

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

17

TOP 5

Celebrating the great women of UWC

COUNTRIES PROMOTING GENDER EQUALITY THESE COUNTRIES ARE PAVING THE WAY FOR WOMEN IN STEM, INSPIRING OTHER GLOBAL LEADERS TO DO THE SAME.

The University of the Western Cape is home to many inspiring women – who are making their mark at the University and far beyond. Here are just a few.

By: Zakiyah Ebrahim

Bulgaria

Lithuania

What about South Africa?

While women in tech are woefully

In Lithuania, women dominate

While some countries are winning the

underrepresented around the world, it’s

scientific and engineering professions

gender battle, other countries, including

not all bleak in Bulgaria. Women make

– almost 60% are women, according to

South Africa, still have a long way to

up nearly one third of the workforce,

Eurostat.

go to ensure women are integrated and

proving that the tech force can be a woman’s world, too.

Portugal

Russia

Dr Fanelwa Ngece-Ajayi Dr Ngece-Ajayi is a senior lecturer in Physical Chemistry at UWC, and a research leader in the field of drug metabolism nanobiosensors for antiretrovirals and Tuberculosis treatment drugs.

represented in STEM fields.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific

Slowly but surely, more of this

and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

country’s brainpower is coming from

statistics indicate a lack of women in

Portugal is another rare country that

women. A report from the United

STEM and innovation in South Africa, and

presents beacons of hope. It has the

Nations Educational, Scientific and

Professor Mmantsae Moche Diale, the

smallest difference between the gender

Cultural Organization found that the

recently appointed NRF SARChI Chair in

pay gap in the technology industry, and

scientific research sector makes up

Clean and Green Energy at the University

last year was ranked as one of the best

41% of women, and the number of

of Pretoria, wants to change that by

countries for women pursuing a career

women inventors is more than three

mentoring and encouraging young

in tech.

times that of other western countries.

women to complete their PhDs.

Latvia

Apart from her role at the University, Dr Ngece-Ajayi also leads a non-profit organisation called AmaQawe ngeMfundo, which she founded along with five other academics. Together, they aim to change the negative stereotypes about townships and instil confidence among pupils living there to study maths and science.

Through their efforts, they have empowered more than 60 pupils from different schools in Khayelitsha using motivational seminars, workshops and talks. These events are also tailored to provide pupils with information pertaining to bursary and scholarship applications, apart from assisting them with placement at institutions of higher learning.

The key to attracting young women in STEM lies in investing time and resources

Also at the forefront of pioneering

to find them at an early stage, such as in

gender equality is Latvia, who has the

high school, says Prof Diale.

Dr Imogen Wright

Dr Mmaki Jantjies

Dr Wright, a scientist and researcher at UWC’s South African Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI), was instrumental in the development of a software solution called Exatype, which enables health workers to determine a patient’s responsiveness to antiretroviral drugs.

Dr Jantjies is one of the first black women to obtain a Ph.D. in Computer Science, and has greatly contributed to research on mobile learning technology development for mathematics and science in South African schools, with a focus on multilingual content presentation.

Through a simple report, Exatype detects drug resistance in patients – highlighting the need to avoid certain drugs to ensure successful treatment. The software has the potential to contribute towards effectively managing HIV/AIDS in Africa, and also holds promise in helping detect drug resistance for other disease burdens such as Tuberculosis, Malaria and antimicrobial resistance.

She is currently the head of the Information Systems Department at UWC, and also coordinator of the Mozilla and UN Women technology clubs for girls. These clubs are focused on teaching basic technology skills to young girls in disadvantaged communities, with the aim of introducing the technology industry as a viable career option.

This noteworthy work, done in conjunction with UWC spin-off company, Hyrax Biosciences, earned Dr Wright a second place at the 2016 Innovation Prize for Africa (IPA) Awards.

Dr Jantjies’ passion for ICT development earned her a spot on the 2017 Mail & Guardian Young 200 Top Achievers’ list, as well as a place on the list of South Africa’s top 50 inspiring women in technology.

highest number of women researchers in the European Union (EU). And in employment rate in Latvia slightly exceeded the EU average level.

18

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

fishgate.co.za_UW7891

even more good news, the female

For more inspiring stories, visit www.uwc.ac.za

QUICK Q

IS WIKIPEDIA SEXIST? It’s the world’s most popular online encyclopaedia, but has Wikipedia been biased in its representation of women in the STEM fields?

By Zakiyah Ebrahim

L

ooking to check a fact or learn something

9 000 articles, and becomes extensively lower

new? Chances are likely that you’ll turn to

for women of colour.

Wikipedia and find what you’re looking for.

It’s what we build

The knowledge-base website’s content is

This is concerning since the multilingual online

continually evolving and reviewed by a network

encyclopaedia is often the first results that

of almost 150 000 volunteer editors. Whatever

appear after a search. However, there is a silver

appears on the site is based on a consensus

lining to this gloomy news! Wikipedia Edit-a-

decision among these editors.

thons – a global movement working to correct biases and close the content gap for women

3112

We all dream of a better future. For ourselves, our families and our country.

SANRAL, as part of the National Development Plan, is improving and expanding vital road infrastructure.

In the process we are creating jobs, transferring skills and developing opportunities for all South Africans.

We are proud to be a part of the National Development Plan, because we know that roads are more than just roads, they pave the way to a better future.

More than just roads

But even as a body of knowledge, it still has its

and people of colour – have taken place across

shortcomings, one being that women are largely

the UK, US and Canada. This means that many

under-represented among:

people collectively edit and update Wikipedia

•

leadership positions,

entries to grant recognition to those who

•

professional awards recipients,

deserve it.

•

acceptance into prestigious scientific

academies, and

This effort is important, because, as writer

•

the media.

Melina Georgousakis puts it: “If articles on women and their contributions are missing, it

These criteria, 10daily.com indicates, are all

skews perception of the role women have in

considered as sources that demonstrate notability

shaping our society. In the science sector, we

for an individual to receive a Wikipedia article.

want to maintain a factual record of history,

Yet, out of 1.7 million biographies on Wikipedia,

but more importantly, encourage young girls

around just 18% – or 296 000 – of them are on

to pursue careers in Science, Technology,

women. Narrow that further down to women

Engineering, Maths and Medicine. After all, you

working in science, and the number drops to a low

cannot be what you cannot see.”

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

21

MINDSET

Feel like a fraud?

Impostor syndrome is real and its effects are only worsening the gender gap, but the good news is that it can be overcome.

By: Zakiyah Ebrahim

I

mpostor syndrome is described as a pattern of

There are methods to cope with it so that you don't

doubting your own successes and having a con-

hold yourself back unnecessarily. These include:

stant fear of being discovered to be a total fraud

Owning your success

– because you struggle to accept your own skills

Received a promotion? Headhunted by a prestigious

and achievements. It’s the feeling that you haven’t

company? Celebrate the small and big victories, and

earned your accomplishments and that your ideas

recognise that it’s not due to luck but earned by

aren’t worthy of recognition. Acclaimed American

your hard work.

poet and storyteller Maya Angelou felt this way even after winning prestigious awards for her work.

Keeping a diary

Albert Einstein was one of the greatest minds who

Write down all the values you bring to a role and

ever lived yet he too felt his work didn’t deserve as much attention as it had received.

It’s a widespread syndrome and it’s

There are methods to cope with it so that you don’t hold yourself back unnecessarily

more common

22

note any positive feedback you receive from others. This helps when you’re having moments of self-doubt – you can pick up your diary and reflect on all the pick-me-ups and boost your confidence.

Acting faster

among women in STEM. A report in Psychotherapy

Fun fact: Men apply for a job even when they meet

Theory, Research and Practice shows that up to

only 60% of the job criteria, while women only

70% of high-achieving women have suffered from

apply when they meet 100%. Impostor syndrome is

impostor syndrome at one time or another. Despite

damaging because it slows down a woman’s career

the value many women bring to science, they often

progression, so be open to constantly stretching

doubt whether they are good enough and are ready

yourself and putting yourself outside of your

to move on to the next step of their careers.

comfort zone and skill set.

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

READS

Must-read books IDENTITY IS IN THE

EYE OF THE BEHOLDER “Dare to be different, but at the same time, stay true to yourself.” GUGULETHU MABUZA-HOCQUET These are very appropriate words indeed from the woman who has committed her research to identity protection.

The way Gugu sees it, your identity is all you really have – and the answer to protecting it, lies in iris biometrics.

Science is a fascinating world to explore and these female-authored books allow us to catch a glimpse into their extraordinary lives.

By: Zakiyah Ebrahim

Headstrong: 52 Women Who Changed Science – and the World

by Rachel Swaby Swaby profiles the

She is exploring the unique iris properties of the South African population that may just hold the key to a uniquely South African security encryption system.

journeys of 52 women

“Your iris does not only hold information such as your age, gender and race, it also says you are part of a demographic mix that is not found elsewhere in the world. Now imagine a future where those unique features in your eyes will protect the most valuble thing you have – your identity.”

contributions to

Gugu describes the way she ended up in science as a “beautiful accident”. It’s certainly one to be thankful for.

BRIGHT YOUNG SCIENTISTS BEHIND IDEAS THAT WORK. www.csirideasthatwork.co.za

who have made exceptional science. It’s divided into seven sections that focus on different STEM pathways: medicine, biology and the environment, genetics and development, physics, earth and stars, and math and technology, and invention.

Inferior: How Science Got Women Wrong – and the New Research that's Rewriting the Story

by Angela Saini Do young boys really prefer to play with toy cars and girls with dolls, and are brains of women really different from that of men? Written by British journalist Angela Saini, this book investigates the many biases surrounding women in science. You’ll find scientific facts and studies to back her points on how the notion of women being inferior to men has led to increased sexism and even more intense social gender biases against women.

The only woman in the room

by Eileen Pollack

Women in Science – 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World

by Rachel Ignotofsky

This book is a great

A charmingly illustrated

numbers drastically

book whose visuals are

drop as one moves up

as fascinating as its

the academic ladder.

educational content,

blend between fact and fiction. As an activist writer, Pollack notes that although many women enroll themselves in STEM courses, their

How many women do you know of that holds decision-

it is best suited for tweens and teens. It’s easy and fun to

making positions in government and the sciences? Not

read, and you’ll learn quite a few scientific tidbits while

many, right? This is exactly what the book highlights and

reading about the achievements of women who have

seeks to find out. It analyses the social, psychological and

paved the way for the next generation of engineers,

institutional barriers that hinder the progress of women

biologists, mathematicians, doctors and astronauts.

scientists and that are tragically (and normally) overlooked.

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

25

BEAUTY EVENTS

THE SCIENCE BEHIND BEAUTY We get down and pretty with a few fun experiments.

By Leandra Taylor

Experiment 1

between hands, adding a little bit of

Rub-a-dub-dub – let’s go splashing in

water every now and then to help

the tub. The first experiment in this DIY

the sugar dissolve so that it’s not too

pamper kit is the making of a vanilla

rough on the skin. After rinsing, dry

extract bath salt with potpourri. It is a

hands with a cloth.

Split Second Science also has an Education Foundation (SSSEF), a

lovely, calming bath salt that leaves one relaxed after soaking in the tub.

More about the project

Experiment 3 Lastly, a glittery oobleck was made.

Experiment 2

Oobleck is a non-Newtonion fluid

There is no better way of getting rid of

which one can play with. A non-

dead, old skin cells than by making your

Newtonion fluid is a fluid of which

own cocoa-sugar scrub. Keeping in mind

the viscosity is variable based on

that some girls might experience eczema,

applied force – the most common

sensitivity or other skin conditions, we

everyday example being cornstarch

used liquid paraffin and no other oils.

dissolved in water. The name

After making the scrub, girls had the

“oobleck” is derived from the

opportunity to learn how to scrub their

Dr Seuss book Bartholomew and

hands in the correct manner: rub the scrub

the Oobleck.

Non-Profit Organization (NPO) that creates the context specific solutions using an Asset-Based, CommunityDriven, Education approach (ABCDE) which allows us to use the existing assets within the community to drive education that is supported and driven by the community. This ensures that our programmes create an impact on learners and drive a passion for science to potentially follow a career in science (which is decreasing in South Africa). This also uplifts the greater community by keeping

My story

new content, by being creative

Science has been my passion for many

and innovative.

learners off the street and in the class.

Our passion is to make a tangible

years. So much so, that I chose not to just sit in a laboratory after obtaining a BSc.

Cool cosmetics

difference and to put our energy and

Medical Science Degree, staring through a

I developed a DIY pamper kit for girls

knowledge back into the community

microscope or making blood smear slides.

between the ages of 4-12 years. Each kit

as in with this launch, hoping that

Instead I chose to obtain a post graduate

consists of three cosmetic experiments

girls will develop a love for science

certificate in education (PGCE) that would

that girls get to perform themselves under

and in this way it may just lead to

enable me to teach physical sciences to

the supervision of a Creative Scientist. At

planting the seed to grow a greater

grades 10-12 learners. After teaching for

the same time, these experiments answer

love for science in woman.

about ten years I came to realise that I do

the questions as they now can see that for

not get to do enough science experiments

example cosmetics are manufactured in

in class, or have enough time to make

a laboratory by scientists.

science fun for the learners. I wanted them to see, feel, touch, but mostly enjoy science.

This DIY pamper kit was launched in

The most frequently asked questions were

August at Pamper Lounge in Durbanville,

“Why should we know this?” and “Where in

Cape Town. A group of 15 girls from the

real life will we use it?” Well, I wanted to

surrounding area came together

show learners the why’s and the where’s,

to participate.

so I left teaching and partnered up with Split Second Science.

Some of these experiments where floating helium bubbles and the experience of

At Split Second Science I am the Managing

what a sugar rush looks like in a test tube.

Creative Scientist. I enjoy edu-taining

The girls were totally intrigued by the

(educating while entertaining) learners –

three hands-on experiments that they had

creating “WOW” moments and developing

to perform.

26

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

27

HEALTH

BOOST YOUR BRAIN The final exams are coming up!

Staying healthy will help you reach your desired results.

What you put into your body plays a very important role in how it functions and how much energy you have to perform (and excel in) daily tasks. As you prepare for the end-of-year exams, it’s even more important to make sure your diet supports the added workload and reduces the amount of stress build-up.

These are the top five affordable foods that aid brain function and promote memory:

Fatty fish Remember how your mom always told you to eat your fish because it “gives you brains”? Well, she wasn’t lying! Fatty fish such as sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential in building nerve cells and aiding memory. When you don’t consume enough of these fatty acids, the risk of experiencing feelings of depression and learning impairments are increased.

Eggs Beyond breakfast, a diet that contains eggs may complement your study routine. One of the nutrients found in egg white is choline – a micronutrient that regulates your mood and memory. Other important nutrients include vitamins B6 and B12 and folate.

Nuts Walnuts are an incredible source of nourishment as they contain omega-3 fatty acids, but an assortment of nuts eaten as a snack has a host of benefits. We already know that nuts are great for maintaining a healthy heart, but there are more reasons to stock up – eating nuts regularly improves cognitive ability. The vitamin E in nuts slows mental decline over the years as it protects cells from free radical damage.

Broccoli High in vitamin K, this green vegetable should be a regular on your plate! Apart from the benefits of this vitamin (healthy bone clotting, bone health, wound healing), broccoli is also an antioxidant and contains anti-inflammatory benefits which allows the body to fight off illnesses and protects the brain against damage.

Take note!

Make sure you

Turmeric

know which foods

This spice contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits which is linked to memory, emotion and

you are allergic to

the growth of brain cells. An active ingredient found in turmeric, called curcumin, is responsible for crossing

and that you steer

the blood-brain barrier, allowing the nutrients to pass directly to the brain. Of course, you probably won’t

clear of those.

get snacking on a spoon of spice while you study, so ask your mom to include it in her cooking.

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

29

BURSARIES

EXAMS

DECODING YOUR GRADES So, you know that your end-of-year exam results are important but how does your performance affect your varsity applications?

These are the three pass levels and what they mean for your future:

Higher certificate With the below pass points checked, you can apply to study technical skills at a tertiary institution.

Level system

Minimum pass requirements: •

•

Level 7:

80–100% (Outstanding achievement)

40% in your Home Language

•

40% in two other subjects

•

30% for four other subjects

70–79% (Meritorious achievement)

•

Must past at least 6 out of 7 subjects

•

•

Level 6:

Diploma

By obtaining the below results for your matric year, you can apply to study

60–69% (Substantial achievement)

Level 5:

towards a diploma at a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college or Univeristy of Technology.

•

Level 4:

50–59% (Moderate achievement) Minimum pass requirements: 40% for your Home Language

•

40% for three other subjects excluding Life Orientation

40–49% (Adequate achievement)

•

30% in the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) of the tertiary

institution (Higher Education Institution)

•

Must pass at least 6 out onf 7 subjects

30–39% (Elementary achievement)

•

Bachelors pass With a Bachelor's pass you can apply to study towards a degree at a university, university of technology, TVET college or any accredited Higher Learning Institution.

Achieving this status opens the most doors at tertiary institutions, especiallly for acadmeic courses.

Minimum pass requirements: •

40% for your Home Language (compulsory)

•

50% for four other subjects excluding Life Orientation

•

30% in Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) of the tertiary (Higher

Eduction) institution

•

Must obtain at least 30% for one other subject

•

Must pass at least 6 out of 7 subjects

30

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

•

•

•

Level 3:

Level 2:

Level 1:

0–29% (Not achieved: Fail)

Funding your future PSG Bursary

What it covers: Tuition fees and prescribed textbooks. Students will also receive mentoring, coaching and support; entrance into the graduate programme and working experience within the financial services industry.

Fields of study: • Information Technology • Information Systems • Informatics • Computer Science • Software Development • Project Management • Data Analytics • Artificial Intelligence • Engineering: Electrical; Electronic; Computer; Mechanical; Industrial; Chemical; Systems or Process • Engineering Management • Actuarial Science • Statistics • Mathematics • Applied Mathematics • Finance • Economics • Econometrics • Investments Who can apply?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying: • South African citizen • Completed Matric • Studying towards a postgraduate degree qualification within one of the aforementioned fields of study (or in final year of Engineering undergraduate degree) • Achieved a minimum overall average of 65% • Wish to further your career in the financial services sector • Able to keep calm and work well under pressure and in a team • Pay close attention to detail; energetic; solution-oriented; ambitious; self-motivated How to apply: Apply online at legacy.psg.co.za (Reference number: #PSG-20955). Before you can apply, you will be required to register an account.

Submit clear copies of the following compulsory documents along with your application: • ID document (certified copy) • Degree qualification certificate (certified copy) • Academic transcripts • CV Closing date: 30 November 2019 Who to contact: Call 0800 551 552 or email info@psg.co.za

Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust What it covers: Tuition fees, prescribed books and other study materials, meals, accommodation and a living expense allowance (if motivated).

Fields of study: Any field of study provided that the studies are no longer than 5 years.

Who can apply?

• South African citizen • Currently unemployed • Between 16 and 30 years old • Completed Matric OR currently in Matric • Studying or have applied to study towards your first undergraduate qualification • Studying or have applied to study at a recognised and accredited institution in SA • Studying or intend on studying full-time/ parttime/ via distance learning • Strong academic record • Leadership skills; Empathetic ability • Strong developmental communication skills • Proven financial need • Preference will be given to those studying towards essential and scarce skills (per the Department of Labour, SETAs and labour and economic advisors) How to apply: Applications must be done online ateasyburse.co.za.

You will be required to register an account before you can login and apply. Submit clear copies of the following compulsory documentation along with your online application: • ID document (certified copy) • Matric latest results, if currently in Matric OR Matric certificate, if completed Matric (certified copy) • Full academic record, if currently at tertiary level (certified copy) • Proof of tertiary application or acceptance • Parents’/ guardians’ ID documents (certified copies) AND proof of income (certified copies of payslips if employed OR proof of pension or grant if applicable) • Testimonial from an educator or community official • Motivational essay (explaining why you deserve to be awarded the bursary, the support you expect to receive from the bursary and life values) Closing date: 31 October 2019 Who to contact: Call 011 592 6560 or email info@cyrilramaphosa.org

South African Civil Aviation Authority Bursary Fields of study: • Aeronautical Engineering • Aircraft Maintenance Engineering • Pilot Training

Who can apply?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying: • South African citizen • Currently in Matric OR completed Matric • Studying or intend on studying within one of the aforementioned fields of study • Good academic record • Aeronautical Engineering students: achieved a minimum academic result of level 5 for English, and level 6 for Mathematics and Physical Science • Aircraft Maintenance Engineering students: achieved a minimum academic result of level 5 for Mathematics, Physical Science and English

• • •

Pilot Training students: achieved a minimum academic result of level 5 for Mathematics, Physical Science and English Proven financial need

How to apply: Apply in one of the following ways: 1) via email to: BursaryApplications@caa.co.za (Insert the words “SACAA Bursary Application – Your Full Name” in the email subject line) 2) via post to: Bursary Applications Human Resources South African Civil Aviation Authority Private Bag x73, Halfway House, 1685 Attach clear copies of the following documentation: • ID document (certified copy) • Matric latest results, if currently in Matric OR Matric certificate, if completed Matric (certified copy) • Latest academic results, if currently at tertiary level (certified copy) • Parents’/ guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips if employed/ affidavit if unemployed) • Proof of any other financial assistance received • Motivational letter to support your application Closing date: 31 October 2019 Who to contact: Call 011 545 1612 or send an email to BursaryApplications@caa.co.za

Takealot Bursary

What it covers: Tuition fees, prescribed books, stationery, accommodation in residence or equivalent private accommodation, meals, transport and a personal computer. Students are required to undertake vacation work at Takealot during holidays and must work at the company once they have graduated.

Fields of study: • Computer Science • Computer Engineering • Information Technology • Information Systems • Electrical Engineering • Electronic Engineering Who can apply?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying: • South African citizen • Completed Matric • Strong academic potential • Studying full time within one of the aforementioned fields of study • Studying at a recognised public University within South Africa • In your final year of undergraduate studies OR Honours year of study • Achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in your most recent exams How to apply: Apply online at leap.ly/opportunities/282 Submit clear copies of the following compulsory documentation along with your completed application form: • ID document (certified copy) • Matric certificate (certified copy) • Full tertiary academic record (certified copy) • Motivational letter in support of your application Closing date: 30 September 2019 Who to contact: Call 011 403 1632 / 011 403 1130 or email applications@StudyTrust.org.za

PUZZLES

QUIZ

SUDOKU

Picking your brain

1

The scientific research sector of which country is made up of 41% women?

A. Russia

7

B. Sweden

Fill in the 9×9 grid with digits so that each column, row, and 3×3 section contain the numbers between 1 to 9.

What is the main function of the kidneys?

A. To remove waste from the blood B. To regulate hormones C. To pump blood to the brain

5 6 2

C. Germany

2 3

Imposter syndrome is…

A. When someone constantly breaks into your home B. Doubting your success and feeling like a fraud C. Not minding your own business

4 5 6

CH4 is…

A. Carbon dioxide B. Chlorine C. Methane

What is #MakeWhatsNext?

A. A student loan B. A Microsoft coding workshop C. A DIY project

8 9 10

Climate change is…

A. When an area experiences a thunderstorm B. The cause of pollution in the ocean C. The rise in the earth’s temperature What percentage of the earth’s oxygen is produced by the Amazon rainforest?

A. 2% B. 20% C. 13%

32

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

8 41 57

The largest mammal is…

A. Elephant B. Blue whale C. Giraffe

8

7

2

8

5 18

74 9

7

6 7

1

3 6

6 9 8

63

4

13 12 6

6

3 26

8

1

53

1

7

6

Where is the MeerKAT telescope located?

A. Northern Cape B. Limpopo C. Western Cape

The world’s tallest building is…

A. Eiffel Tower B. Big Ben C. Burj Khalifa

36 1 9

12 89

2

8

1

3 57

95

4 5

9

WORD SEARCH EC

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Vitamins Imposter Fellows Neurons Cerebrum Cosmetics Astronomical Coding Experiments Equality

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

33

FACTS

ANSWERS

TEN FACTS ON… THE HUMAN BRAIN

TEST RESULTS What was your score for the Climatology issue?

SUDOKU 2

9 4 2

6 1 3

8 5 7

5 8 6

4 7 1

8 1 5

7 9 4

2 6 3

9 7

2

3 5 6

3

5

9

1

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6 7

8 2

1 4

4 3

2 9

5 6

3 9

7 2

1 9

4

8

3 6 5

5 3 8

6 4 7

1 2 9

6 9 1

2 3 5

4 7 8

QUIZ

WORD SEARCH

1. B – Mozambique

34

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2. B – 70%

C

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3. A – Human urine

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7. C – 2016

C

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8. B – Greenhouse gas

S

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Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

1

On average, the brain makes up only 2% of the human body weight.

6

While the brain can communicate feelings of pain to the body, it doesn’t feel any pain.

2

There are roughly 86 billion neurons in the brain and they move information at a speed of up to 402km per hour!

7

The cerebrum (controls emotions, movement, touch, vision, hearing and speech) makes up 85% of the brain’s weight.

3

The brain forms part of the central nervous system.

8

Brain size is not linked to the level of intelligence.

4

It grows until the individual is 18 years old, but once we reach middle age it starts shrinking.

9

The brain receives 30% of the blood that’s pumped from the heart.

5

Staying hydrated is important as the brain consists of about 75% water.

4. B – Drones 5. C – Durban, South Africa 6. A – Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town

9. C – 10% 10. A – Giraffe

10

We’re born with neurons in our brain but the body continues to produce more as we age.

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

35

DRAFTFCB CAPE TOWN 10003863CT/E

SCIENCE CENTRE

CENTRE OF ATTENTION

If you’re an inquisitive teen with a love for science and technology, Cape Town Science Centre (CTSC) is the place to be.

By: Zakiyah Ebrahim

ith more than 250 interactive

•

Robotics workshops and

international organisations and the

exhibits and mind-boggling puzzles, the

tournaments

provincial and national government to

CTSC offers an escapism, making it very

•

Computer courses

draw attention to the importance of the

unlikely that you'll leave without an

•

Chess workshops and

centre as an excellent platform for the

exciting, unforgettable experience.

tournaments

delivery of STEM learning.

•

Science Out Loud popular

The centre offers the following benefits

science talks

If you’re keen to make your way down

(and so much more!):

•

Maths and science exam

here, wear comfortable walking shoes

preparation lessons

that will allow you to explore and have

•

Science shows

•

Mini-exhibitions on topical

great adventures for hours. Located at

•

Curriculum-based, hands-on

science events

370B Main Road, Observatory, the centre

workshops and experiments

•

Saturday school aimed at

CTSC has partnered with several

9:00–16:30, and on Sundays and public

learner enrichment

organisations, educational NGOs,

holidays from 10:00–16:30.

is open from Monday to Saturday from

Contact the science centre on 021 300 3200. Entry fees vary and start from R65 per person for group bookings.

36

Science Stars Magazine Women's Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za

Cut out and place on your wall for easy reference

W

AD

Mzansi For Science

Scientists, Technologists and Innovators are just like you.

They’re curious.

They ask questions.

They try new things.

The desire to try new things has been inside you from the very beginning.

Facebook.com/MzansiForScience Mzansi4Science