INSTITUTION REPRESENTATIVES
University of Free State : Bloemfontein Campus - Gedro Choeu
I am Gedro Choeu, an enthusiastic researcher with a deep love for physics and its role in driving technological progress. At present, I am enrolled in MSc Nanoscience studies at the University of the Free State (UFS), focusing my research on the “Fabrication and characterization of zinc stannate (Zn2SnO4) nanostructures for gas sensor applications”.
I am very passionate about gas sensor technology because it prioritizes both human and environmental health and safety. The technology simply plays a pivotal role in environmental monitoring, Healthcare sector, industrial safety & inspection, as well as food inspection.
University of Fort Hare - Luyanda Ndevu
My name is Luyanda Ndevu, born and raised in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. I pursued my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Fort Hare, currently holding a BSc Honours in Physics and set to graduate with my MSc this Spring.
I am an aspiring Nuclear Scientist, disciplined and goal-driven, with a strong passion for making a positive impact and adding value to the community. My fascination with observing and analyzing information through practical means—whether through trial-and-error experiments, problem-solving, or improving existing solutions—drives my commitment to the field of physics. In our constantly evolving world, I am always ready to learn new skills and apply them to help others and drive progress.
University of Stellenbosch - Dr Christine Steenkamp
Dr Christine Steenkamp is a woman in physics specializing in laser spectroscopy – studying and controlling atoms and molecules using laser light. As an early career scientist she has studied molecules that are important for astrophysics. Currently her work focuses on atoms and molecules that have potential in medical diagnosis and future cancer treatment and using lasers to identify and purify these. Her other passion is teaching. She has been a lecturer at Stellenbosch University Physics Department since 2003, the first permanent female lecturer at this department at that time, and a supervisor and mentor to many postgraduate students. She has been involved in WiPiSA since its launch in 2005. She is married to an electronic engineer and has three children.
University of Stellenbosch - Dr Yaseera Ismail
Dr Yaseera Ismail’s research interest lies in developing quantum-enabled devices in the field of quantum information, processing, communication, and computation. She specializes in the development of quantum optical systems in free-space quantum communication. She is a senior lecturer at Stellenbosch University Physics Department. In 2016 she was awarded the honor of TechWomen Emerging Leader presented by the United States Department of State. This accolade provided her with the opportunity to reside for 5 weeks in Silicon Valley at Synopsys, a tech company that focuses on silicon chip design and software integration. In 2018 she was awarded Optica Ambassador and is a fellow of DHET Future Professor Programme. She currently holds the position of Optica’s Vice President on the International Commission for Optics (ICO).
CSIR - Prettier Maleka
My name is Prettier Morongoa Maleka, a research scientist at The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). My areas of interest in research are computational material science and renewable energy, with a particular focus on materials for energy storage and solar cells. I am excited by the potential of perovskites, which have emerged as attractive candidates for high-efficiency solar cells due to their remarkable optoelectronic properties. Through advanced computational techniques, I aim to explore and optimize the performance of perovskite materials, addressing challenges such as stability. Additionally, I am interested in developing novel materials for energy storage systems, which are crucial for the efficient utilization of renewable energy sources. By leveraging computational material science, one can design and discover materials that can enhance the capacity, efficiency, and lifespan of energy storage devices, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.
University of the Witwatersrand - Ofentse Mathlakola
My name is Ofentse Matlhakola, from Soshanguve. I am currently doing my Masters in Physics at Wits. The focus of my project is using computational tools to probe one of Quantum Chromodynamics’ (QCD) predictions in High Energy Physics/Particle Physics. I enjoy learning, not just Physics but other fun and useful stuff like dressmaking and DIY crafts. Having received valuable support from women in Physics throughout my academic journey, I know its impact first hand and would like to contribute to the encouragement of Physics related studies and careers among girls.
University of Venda - Ronel Randela
I am Ronel Ronella Randela, a Junior Lecturer at the University of Venda working under the department of physics. I grew up in a small village called Mashamba Tshivhuyuni. I come from a family full of love and respect. As any young girl growing up, I had a dream that one day I want to secure a good job that I will enjoy while working. During my high school grades, I noticed that physical science was a highly praised subject but only a few girls studied physical sciences. As young as I was then, I was told that this subject is too difficult and only a few students manage to pass it. Thus, when I developed an interest in wanting to challenge myself. I passed grade 12 and furthered my studies at the University of Northwest where my degree was a BSc in Physics and Chemistry in 2018. After completing I then furthered my studies in BSc Honors in Physics at the University of Venda in 2020, then I continued to do master’s in physics at the University of Venda and I have completed it in 2024. The research that I am currently focusing on is based on Renewable energy focusing on the Dye Sensitized Solar Cells.
University of Pretoria - Beauty Masolo
My name is Beauty Masolo. I am pursuing a master’s in physics. My passion for physics is driven by the desire to innovate, invent, and contribute to cutting-edge technologies that change the world, such as quantum computing, renewable energy, or space exploration. I am currently working on an innovative method of drying Gari using nanomaterials to enhance heat transfer in the system. The study combines food science, nanotechnology, and engineering to improve the safety, quality, and processing efficiency of Gari using nanomaterials. Physics is at the heart of many technological advancements.
Sol Plaatjie University - Puseletso Mokoena
University of Limpopo - Tebogo Morukuladi / Rebecca Letsoalo
Tshwane University of Technology - Nompumelelo Promise Soko
Mintek - Dr Ramogohlo Diale
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