STEM MentHER UWC hosted the second induction event for new mentees on 17 July 2026. Image: Shelley Christians/UWC

For many young women, choosing a career in science can feel daunting. Questions about where they belong, which discipline to pursue, and whether they have what it takes, often stand in the way of their ambitions. At the University of the Western Cape (UWC), the STEM MentHER Programme is helping to change that by providing mentorship, exposure and a community of support before learners even leave school.

In mid July, the programme welcomed its second cohort of Grade 11 learners at an induction event marking the beginning of a year-long mentoring journey. Bringing together academics, mentors and aspiring scientists, the initiative aims to encourage more young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) while addressing the persistent underrepresentation of women across many scientific fields.

The induction featured a keynote address titled "The Power of the STEM Ecosystem in Nurturing Curiosity, Courage and Community," highlighting the importance of mentorship in building an inclusive scientific community. Associate Professor in Computer Science Omowunmi Isafiade noted that although women account for a significant proportion of STEM graduates, many leave the sector before reaching research and leadership positions, a challenge often referred to as the "leaky pipeline".

16-year-old Naeela Parker from Claremont High School is taking part in the programme. Image: Shelley Christians/UWC

"Mentorship has become an important social tool and a catalyst for fostering innovation and promoting career development, and structured mentorship programmes create safe spaces where young women can navigate challenges, build confidence and see themselves as future scientists,” said Prof Isafiade. 

For 16-year-old Naeela Parker from Claremont High School, the programme offered something she had been searching for – direction.

Although interested in science, she said she was uncertain about what she wanted to study after school and hoped the programme would help her make an informed decision.

"I signed up for the programme because I was unsure about what exactly to study, and I felt like I needed some guidance," she said.

For fellow Grade 11 learner Nasreen Dantu from Belhar High School, science has always been about solving problems and making a difference. "It's discovering new possibilities and endless solutions to endless problems," she said. "I love problem-solving - finding solutions and coming up with new ideas to make an impact."

17-year-old Nasreen Dantu from Belhar High School is excited to be part of the programme and believes it will help fuel her passion for science. Image: Shelley Christians/UWC

She hopes the mentorship programme will not only deepen her understanding of scientific careers, but also strengthen her confidence. "I want to learn how to be more confident and articulate my ideas better."

The programme introduces learners to a wide range of disciplines across UWC, allowing them to experience what studying and working in different scientific fields entails before making career decisions.

Physiology lecturer Dr Tammy Charlene Ras, from UWC's Department of Medical Biosciences and one of the programme's mentors, said early exposure enables learners to make more informed choices about their futures.

"Throughout the programme, we expose them to different departments, including Medical Biosciences, Dentistry, Chemistry and other scientific disciplines. Sometimes learners begin the year thinking they know exactly what they want to study, but after seeing the realities of a particular field, they discover another area that excites them even more."

The second cohort of the STEM MentHER programme and their mentors at the UWC in Mid July. Image: Supplied

She said this year's Grade 11 cohort has the added advantage of having more time to reflect on those experiences before applying to university. "They'll leave with knowledge, experience and a much clearer understanding of the careers available to them. We also learn from them. It's always inspiring to engage with young minds."

The programme's success also rests on the commitment of its mentors, who volunteer their time and expertise to support the learners throughout their journey.

UWC STEM MentHER Mentor Coordinator, Dr Rechelle Jacobs, said the programme is about far more than introducing learners to careers in science – it is about walking alongside them as they discover their potential.

"The dedication of the UWC STEM MentHER mentors to walking alongside these learners is truly inspiring. Through their guidance, encouragement and support, they are helping to build confidence, open doors to new opportunities and shape the next generation of STEM leaders, “ said Dr Jacobs.