Africa Scientifique Introductory Workshop Alumni Contributors Profiles

Marry is an ardent and inquisitive individual with a lifelong passion for science, education, and exploration. Her academic journey has led her to earn a BSc and Honors in Physics, MSc in Mathematical Sciences and she is currently pursuing a master's degree in Physics. Her current research focuses on computational modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, advanced algorithms, and machine learning applications in physics, with aspirations to make meaningful contributions to medical physics and related fields. She is passionate about science communication and has actively engaged in national science events, teaching mathematics creatively to younger audiences. Beyond her research, she has a keen interest in neuroscience, particularly cognitive AI and the brain's inner workings, which could inspire future interdisciplinary pursuits. In her free time, she enjoys knitting and playing board games, blending creativity with strategy. Marry is dedicated to advancing in STEM and seeks opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and capacity building to create a positive impact in her field. She volunteers for the House of Science Initiative at AIMS. Mary is an Alumni of the 2023 Africa Scientifique Programme at AIMS. 

Siyabonga is a PhD student working in the field of Higher Category Theory at AIMS South Africa. He is from a small area of Bedford Park, Johannesburg. Siyabonga obtained his BSc (Hons) in mathematics in 2021 from the University of the Western Cape and went to complete his masters at AIMS South Africa in 2023. He is a passionate and dedicated young mathematician that appreciates the elegance and beauty of mathematics in a peculiar way. One of his dreams is to write a mathematics book in his own language. Siyabonga is an Alumni of the 2023 Africa Scientifique Programme at AIMS. 

Masego is a Physics graduate from the University of Venda in Limpopo Province, holding a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Chemistry, and an Honours degree in Nuclear Physics with a specialization in Radiobiology. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Nuclear Physics, with a particular interest in radiation protection, space radiation, and its biomedical implications. During her Honours studies, Masego conducted research on the effects of space radiation on the immune system of astronauts, exploring the intersection of physics and biology. The research not only expanded my understanding of space environments and ionizing radiation but also sparked a lasting interest in the biological consequences of radiation exposure, particularly in aerospace and medical contexts.

She currently serves as a laboratory demonstrator for first-year students in the Department of Physics. This role has provided me with valuable experience in academic instruction and mentorship, while also developing essential skills in leadership, teamwork, and scientific communication. It has prepared me for future roles in both academia and research-intensive environments.

Enock is a passionate Zambian Data Scientist with a strong mathematical foundation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the Copperbelt University (Zambia) and a master’s degree in Mathematical Sciences from Stellenbosch University (South Africa), earned through the prestigious AIMS Scholarship.

As a dedicated science communicator, Enock is an alumnus of the House of Science and an active contributor to various science communication initiatives. After completing his studies at AIMS, Enock worked across the African continent as a Data Analyst at MarchTina Consultancy in Zambia, collaborating with diverse interdisciplinary teams. He is currently a Research Engineer at the Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) in France, where he focuses on urban mobility challenges in the City of Montpellier.

In 2024/25, Enock also served as a technical mentor for the Empire Partner Foundation under the African Science Entrepreneurship Program, in partnership with the University of Leeds Business School. Through this mentorship, he contributed to the development of a digital project now showcased at fishmartapp.com.

Sarah Gakii is an Applied Mathematics and Scientific Computing specialist with a strong interest in machine learning and data-driven problem-solving. She completed her Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics & Scientific Computation at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), where her thesis developed a Newton–Finite Difference Method for elliptic and parabolic problems with nonlinear interface jump conditions. She previously earned her MSc in Mathematical Sciences from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in South Africa.

Sarah is passionate about science communication, mentorship, and community engagement. During her time at AIMS, she served as a student leader, supporting academic integration and well-being within the cohort. She also participated in the Africa Scientifique Programme, where she strengthened her ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences and gained hands-on experience in STEM outreach. She currently applies her mathematical and computational expertise in roles spanning data analysis, artificial intelligence, and mathematical problem-solving. Sarah remains committed to using mathematical thinking to address real world challenges and to inspire the next generation of African scientists through accessible, engaging science communication.

Similoluwa is a Google DeepMind Scholar in the AI for Science program at AIMS South Africa. He is interested in leveraging technology and intelligent systems to make the lives of others better. He enjoys learning, writing, exploring new ideas, and working on projects that combine technical depth with meaningful impact.