Tell us briefly about yourself, your current role and why you chose to pursue a career in a STEM-related field

I hold a BSc in Applied Mathematics and Physics, a BSc Honours in Applied Mathematics, and an MSc in Nuclear Engineering from the NWU. I currently work as a junior nuclear safety engineer, contributing to projects that support innovation and sustainable development through science and technology.

I chose to pursue a STEM career because I have always been fascinated by how mathematics and science can be used to solve real-world problems. Growing up, I witnessed how access to education can transform lives and create opportunities. STEM provided me with the tools to build a meaningful career while contributing to solutions that can positively impact communities. It combines my curiosity, my passion for learning and my desire to make a difference.

Looking back, how did your time at the NWU help prepare you for your career, and what achievement in your professional journey are you most proud of so far?

My time at the NWU provided me with a strong academic foundation while teaching me resilience, discipline and critical thinking. The university challenged me to step beyond my comfort zone and exposed me to opportunities that shaped both my technical expertise and personal growth.

One of the achievements I am most proud of is completing my MSc in Nuclear Engineering. My research focused on improving the accuracy of nuclear reactor simulations through advanced computational modelling. The project required dedication, perseverance and a commitment to continuous learning.

Beyond my academic achievements, I am proud of the work I do to encourage young people, particularly those from township communities, to believe in their potential and pursue opportunities in higher education and STEM fields.

Youth Month commemorates the role young people have played in shaping South Africa’s future. What does Youth Month mean to you personally, and what opportunities do you believe STEM education can create for young people across Africa?

Youth Month is a reminder of the courage, determination and sacrifices made by young people who fought for equal access to education and opportunity. It is a time to reflect on how far we have come and to recognise our responsibility to continue building a better future for the next generation.

I believe STEM education has the power to unlock opportunities across Africa by equipping young people with skills that are relevant to the modern world. From engineering and healthcare to renewable energy, artificial intelligence and scientific research, STEM empowers young people to become innovators, problem-solvers and leaders.

For many young people, especially those from under-resourced communities, STEM can serve as a pathway to economic empowerment and social mobility.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing young professionals entering STEM careers today, and what advice would you give to learners or students considering a STEM qualification?

One of the biggest challenges is access to resources, mentorship and exposure to career opportunities. Many talented young people have the ability to succeed in STEM but do not always have access to the support systems needed to navigate these fields. Another challenge is overcoming self-doubt, particularly in highly demanding and competitive environments.

My advice to learners and students is to stay curious, remain consistent and never underestimate the value of hard work. STEM can be challenging, but growth often happens when we push ourselves beyond what we believe we are capable of achieving.

Seek mentors, ask questions and do not be afraid of failure. Failure is often one of the greatest teachers. Most importantly, remember that your background does not determine your future. With dedication and perseverance, you can achieve more than you imagine.

What excites you most about the future of STEM in South Africa and Africa? Complete the following sentence: “The future of Africa will be shaped by young people who…”

What excites me most about the future of STEM in South Africa and across Africa is the incredible potential of our young people. We are seeing more young Africans entering fields such as engineering, technology, research and innovation, and using their skills to develop solutions that address both local and global challenges.

As someone who is passionate about STEM and youth development, I am particularly encouraged by the growing efforts to make quality education more accessible. Through education, mentorship and initiatives that empower young people, we can build a future driven by innovation and inclusive growth.

Tell us briefly about yourself, your current role and why you chose to pursue a career in a STEM-related field.

My name is Mhleli Vezi, and I currently serve as a Middle Manager (Head of Department): Land Development and Environmental Management within Eskom's Distribution Division. My role focuses on ensuring that major infrastructure projects are developed in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner, with legally acquired land rights, while supporting South Africa's energy security objectives.
I have always been fascinated by the intersection of science, people and the environment. Growing up, I was curious about how infrastructure shapes communities and how scientific knowledge can be applied to solve real-world problems. This led me to pursue a STEM-related career where I could contribute to sustainable development, environmental protection and the delivery of critical infrastructure. STEM offered me the opportunity to combine analytical thinking, problem-solving and a passion for creating a positive impact on society.

Looking back, how did your time at the NWU help prepare you for your career, and what achievement in your professional journey are you most proud of so far?

My time at the North-West University played a significant role in shaping both my professional and personal development. NWU provided a strong academic foundation while teaching me critical thinking, discipline and the importance of continuous learning. The university environment encouraged collaboration, innovation and the ability to approach complex challenges from different perspectives.

One of the achievements I am most proud of is progressing into a senior leadership and advisory role at Eskom, where I contribute to strategic infrastructure projects that have a direct impact on South Africa's development. I am particularly proud of being involved in projects that balance environmental stewardship with national development priorities. Knowing that my work contributes to sustainable infrastructure and improved environmental governance is deeply rewarding.

Youth Month commemorates the role young people have played in shaping South Africa's future. What does Youth Month mean to you personally, and what opportunities do you believe STEM education can create for young people across Africa?

Youth Month is a reminder of the courage, resilience and sacrifices made by young South Africans in the pursuit of a better future. It reminds us that young people have always been catalysts for change and continue to play a critical role in shaping society.

For me, Youth Month is a time to reflect on how far we have come as a nation while recognising the responsibility we have to empower the next generation. STEM education creates enormous opportunities for young people across Africa. It equips them with the skills needed to address some of our continent's most pressing challenges, including energy access, climate change, water security, healthcare, food security and technological advancement. STEM empowers young people not only to seek employment, but also to become innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing young professionals entering STEM careers today, and what advice would you give to learners or students considering a STEM qualification?

One of the biggest challenges facing young professionals today is the gap between academic knowledge and workplace experience. Many graduates possess strong theoretical knowledge but struggle to find opportunities to gain practical exposure. Rapid technological advancement also means that professionals must continuously adapt and upskill throughout their careers.

My advice to learners and students is to remain curious and embrace lifelong learning. Do not be discouraged by difficult subjects or setbacks along the way. STEM careers require perseverance, resilience and a willingness to continuously improve. Seek mentorship, gain practical experience whenever possible, and focus on developing both technical and interpersonal skills. The ability to communicate, collaborate and lead is just as important as technical competence.

Most importantly, remember that STEM is not only about mathematics and science. It is about solving problems that matter and creating solutions that improve people's lives.

What excites you most about the future of STEM in South Africa and Africa? Complete the following sentence: "The future of Africa will be shaped by young people who..."

What excites me most is the growing recognition that Africa's challenges can become opportunities for innovation. Across the continent, young people are developing solutions in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, agriculture, healthcare and digital technology. With the right support and investment, Africa has the potential to become a global leader in innovation and sustainable development.

“The future of Africa will be shaped by young people who dare to think differently, embrace innovation, pursue knowledge relentlessly, and use their talents to solve the challenges facing their communities and the continent.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM, and what are you currently doing?

I am currently an intern at the Science Centre on the Mahikeng Campus through NRF-SAASTA. I am passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems and about translating complex scientific research into knowledge that can inspire STEM learners and emerging young researchers.

I chose STEM because I believe it offers the most direct path to driving innovation and improving lives, from healthcare and energy to education. My current role involves educating and creating awareness among young people about past, present and future technological developments and how these can be used to solve real-world challenges. This allows me to apply analytical thinking and creativity every day.

How did your time at the NWU prepare you for your career, and what achievement are you most proud of?

The NWU gave me more than just technical knowledge. It taught me resilience, critical thinking and how to collaborate across disciplines. I am most proud of my ability to communicate science and help prepare young people for future opportunities. This passion developed from the mindset and skills I cultivated during my time on campus.

What does Youth Month mean to you, and how can young people contribute to Africa's future through STEM?

To me, Youth Month is a reminder that young people are leaders today, not simply future leaders. Through STEM education and opportunities in fields such as renewable energy, digital infrastructure, agritech and other emerging industries, we can equip young people across Africa with the tools they need to solve local challenges that can have a global impact.

At the same time, these opportunities can create jobs, strengthen communities and contribute to a more sustainable economy.

What challenges do young people entering STEM fields face, and what advice would you give them?

Some of the biggest challenges include access to resources such as funding for further studies, mentorship opportunities and industry connections that can help young people develop their skills and careers.

My advice is to maintain your sense of curiosity, pursue internships early, build a strong support network and be willing to fail. The skills you develop through STEM will provide you with countless tools to shape your future. The important thing is to use those tools and continue building on them.

What message would you like to share with other young people this Youth Month?

"The future of Africa will be shaped by young people who are aware and willing to shape change."

Young people who dare to dream beyond their circumstances, embrace collaboration rather than competition, and use science and technology to build an Africa that is self-sufficient, innovative and inclusive will help define the continent's future.