My favourite subjects were mathematics, physical science and EGD. From a young age I have had an interest in science and especially mathematics. This is largely due to the fact that my father also has a great love for science and mathematics and works in a related field. He exposed me to mathematics and physics-related concepts and encouraged me to learn as much as possible about the field. I attended numerous electronics workshops at the South African National Space Agency where my father is employed and got to assemble a large number of small electronics kits over the years. Needless to say I became fairly familiar with a soldering iron at an early age, regardless of many blisters acquired through inexperience. I got involved in tutoring as part of the Presidential Awards programme and tried to support and encourage fellow students struggling with these subjects. During my school career I tried to participate in as many Olympiads and similar competitions as possible to develop a strong set of problem-solving skills.