The Good Hope FM Women Warrior Awards 2024 will take place on Wednesday, 23 October 2024, when the winners of each category will be announced.
Latifah Jacobs, a student at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in Community Development under the Department of Social Work, is a finalist in the Social Impact Awards category.
She earned her spot in the competition for establishing her own library and securing environments where children can study and develop.
She is no stranger to poverty alleviation, and her service provides the opportunity to offer learners equitable access to excellent educational opportunities.
She is a human rights advocate known for her selfless contribution to several social justice initiatives.
The second-year student’s community library serves as a safe space for children to fall in love with reading and to grow up understanding the importance of literacy.
“In my quest to empower myself, I discovered even those who say they love reading aren’t always able to contextualise what they read, and as a student, it’s important to understand the material in order to truly learn and grow,” said Jacobs.
She said the library isn’t any ordinary library. “We evolve to the needs of the community, as our community doesn’t have any recreation centres; it’s a space that facilitates programmes like youth development for youth in and out of school, community capacity building, and job readiness.”
Her community in Sunbird Park, Kuilsriver serves the surrounding areas of Sophia Town and Happy Valley, who see it as a place where individuals can come together to better themselves and each other.
“The main aim for me is about normalising service delivery for all communities, even the marginalised. I want every individual who walks through our doors to have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. My passion lies in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.”
A top-class lecturer and researcher at UWC, she is known for her groundbreaking work in chemistry. Dr Ross’ work involves developing solar-charged batteries with applications in medicine, agriculture, and transportation.
Her research is paving the way for advanced solar energy technologies, which will lessen adverse environmental impacts.
Dr Ross is not only a pioneering researcher but also a passionate advocate for gender equality in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Through her visionary mentorship, she ignites a spark in young women at every stage - high school, undergraduate, and postgraduate - empowering them to pursue careers in science with confidence and courage. By fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, she guides students to not only excel in chemistry but to become thoughtful, impactful leaders shaping a better future for society.
