In South Africa, women — particularly those from underserved communities — remain significantly underrepresented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers. Early exposure to STEM education and mentorship is essential to breaking this cycle and unlocking opportunities for the next generation of female innovators.

One of our rising stars, Kuhle J., a Grade 12 student from Philippi, was inducted into the STEM MentHER programme. It is an initiative that pairs female learners with female academics and postgraduate mentors from leading universities and provides access to curated workshops and hands-on learning experiences.

Kuhle’s passion for STEM was first sparked at Christel House SA through our school robotics programme. What began as curiosity quickly grew into a love for problem-solving and innovation. Today, she dreams of becoming a biomedical engineer, a career that combines her interests in technology, biology, and robotics with her determination to improve lives.

“I want to help bridge the healthcare gap in South Africa,” Kuhle explains. “Many communities, like the one I come from, don’t have access to quality healthcare. Through STEM, I hope to develop solutions that make healthcare more affordable, accessible, and effective for everyone.”

Kuhle credits her success not only to her own drive but also to the mentors who have walked beside her. She describes her mother as her greatest role model and acknowledges her Robotics and CAT teacher, Mr. Cedric Esterhuizen, for nurturing her skills and confidence.

But Kuhle’s vision doesn’t stop with her own career. She dreams of mentoring other young girls, helping them believe in their potential to succeed in STEM fields. By doing so, she hopes to break barriers, lead innovation, and create solutions that address real challenges in her community and beyond.

How you can help

When you support our school, you are helping to nurture future innovators and empower young women to thrive in fields where their voices are needed most. To learn more about how you can support our school, visit: https://sa.christelhouse.org/support-us/