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National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)

Role Models – Students

2025

Kgopolo Danny Ibang

Kgopolo would like to see a world doing something to reduce the number of suicides every year.

Kgopolo is studying for a BSc (Computer Science and Informatics) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). He matriculated at Galaletsang Science Secondary School, Motibistad in the Northern Cape.

“Being perfect is not the key, but consistency is.”

2025

Sinothando Matsha

Sinothando would like to see a world where everyone gets proper care when it comes to health, even if they do not have money.

Sinothando is studying medicine at Stellenbosch University (SU). She matriculated at Soqhayisa Senior Secondary School in Motherwell, Eastern Cape.

“You will be an achiever if you believe in yourself and are disciplined in everything you do.”

2025

Susan Bender

Susan would like to see a world where everyone has the opportunity to live out their full potential.

Susan is studying medicine at the University of the Free State (UFS). She matriculated at Bethlehem Voortrekker High School in Bethlehem in the Free State.

“The education system has a way of dimming this flame and turning maths and science into mundane, boring topics.”

2025

Takatso Obrey Sibanda

Takatso would like to see a world where people are not judged by the shape of their upbringing but by the depth of their intellect.

Takatso is studying BEng (Mechanical Engineering) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). He matriculated at Tholulwazi Secondary School in Kameelrivier, Emthambothini, in Mpumalanga.

“The late great Albert Einstein’s journey to success showed me that even if you come from a poor home, you could still make an impact on the whole world.”

2025

Matthew Christopher Wise

Matthew would like to see a world where everybody on our planet is given equal opportunities to learn and discover their talents.

Matthew is studying for a BSc (Statistics, Data Science and Computer Science) at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He matriculated at Pinelands High School in Cape Town, Western Cape.

“Many of the problems we are facing today stem from the fact that different groups of people were intentionally not given the opportunities they needed to succeed. I hope to do my bit to improve access to opportunities.”

2025

Gugu Pioneer Rose Libambo

Gugu would like to see a world with equal access to quality education and healthcare for all, regardless of background, income, or location.

Gugu is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). She matriculated at Mphanama Secondary School in Mhluzi, Middelburg, Mpumalanga.

“To the youth of South Africa: You are the heartbeat of this nation – the dreamers, the thinkers, the builders of tomorrow. Be bold. Be wise. Be proud.”

2025

Tshegofatso Mmatsiane Komane

Tshegofatso would like to see equal distribution of services among people, whether in rural or urban areas, particularly access to healthcare services.

Tshegofatso is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). She matriculated at Marobathota High School in Boyne, Moria, Limpopo province.

“Never doubt your dreams and know that every dream is valid.”

2025

Rinono Nkateko Mushwana

Rinono would like to see healthcare systems in disadvantaged communities improve, supported by professional, highly trained, and skilled medical professionals.

Rinono is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He matriculated at E.P.P. Mhinga Secondary School, in Malamulele, Limpopo province.

“Socio-economic background and circumstantial challenges should not be our limitation, but rather our inspiration to bring about change.”

2025

Fanelesibonge Amanda Ngema

Fanelesibonge would like to see our youth actively participating in the development of our communities.

Fanelesibonge is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). She matriculated at Vukile High School in Maphumulo, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

“Through education, we can make this country a better place for our generation and for future generations.”

2025

Bonga Alwande Sibeko

Bonga would like to see many scientists enter the field of healthcare, especially in underdeveloped countries, and would like to find a cure for cancer.

Bonga is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He matriculated at Izazi Secondary School in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

“The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is upon us, and we must adapt to the changes it has introduced.”

2025

Lehlohonolo Mokhothu

Lehlohonolo would like to see a sustainable tomorrow — a tomorrow where the environment is safe and the economy benefits everyone. 

Lehlohonolo is studying for a BEng (Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering) at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He matriculated at Jc Motumi Secondary School in Kutlwanong in the Free State, South Africa.

Wherever you are as a young adult in South Africa, strive to make an impact in everything you do.”

2025

Cherise Angelique Müller

Cherise would like to see less poverty in the world and aspires to contribute to such change by inventing methods to make electricity cheaper and more accessible through chemistry.

Cherise is studying for a BSc (Chemistry and Mathematics) at North-West University (NWU). She matriculated at Hoërskool Diamantveld in Kimberley in the Northern Cape.

“Live according to your own values and you will accomplish your goals.”

2025

André De Boer

Andre would like to automate several systems, such as renewing prescriptions, shortening the line for people who need human assistance, and improving the experience for those who do not.

Andre is studying for a BEng (Industrial Engineering) at Stellenbosch University (SU). He matriculated at Hoërskool Diamantveld in Kimberley in the Northern Cape.

Dedication, passion, and a clear understanding of your goals are a fundamental part of the winning mindset.”

2025

Sarah Ann Haveman

Sarah would like to see more time and money being invested into educating people about science.

Sarah is studying for a BSc (Chemistry) at Stellenbosch University (SU). She matriculated at Hoërskool  Durbanville in the Western Cape.

“An achiever is someone who tries, not necessarily someone who wins.”

2025

Kagiso Tele

Kagiso would like to see healthcare centres become places where people do not fear going when they are sick.

Kagiso is studying medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). She matriculated at Lesedi Secondary School in Lethabong in Gauteng.

“Your background does not define you, nor is it an excuse for not doing well.”

2025

Ntsako Thato Ringane

Ntsako would like to see a world where people have compassion and empathy for one another.

Ntsako is studying medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). He matriculated at Boitshepo Secondary School in Marokolong, Hammanskraal in Gauteng.

“It is not always about the achievement, but also about the effort you put in to achieve it.”

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