7-year-old math genius solves equations at South African Mathematics Olympiad
Azure Naidu, a numbers ninja, is passing on her math problem-solving skills to her peers, helping them with their work in class, which she sees as a privilege.
Numbers and equations reign supreme in this day and age, a phenomenon that 7-year-old Azure Rhéa Naidu understands, redefining what it means to be a maths genius.
With a razor-sharp mind and thirst for knowledge, Azure is conquering competitions, inspiring peers, and proving that mathematical mastery knows no age limits.
She recently made major strides at the South African Mathematics Olympiad, a feat she attributes to her hard work and supportive network.
Read more: Crawford International Lonehill learners excel in maths
“I feel ecstatic that I have achieved these goals this year, especially with the South African Maths Olympiad, as it was my first time writing. The questions were challenging, but I had many forms of motivation and encouragement.”
She has also been ranked third by Kumon Africa, a body that compares learners in African countries such as Botswana, Zambia, Namibia, Kenya, and South Africa, for English, and eighth in maths.
This means she is now working three grades above her level for maths, and two grades above her level for English.
Azure credits her parents, maternal grandmother, class teacher Nitasha Pillay, school principal Shivani Sahadeo, and the deputy principals at her school, Crawford International Fourways, for facilitating her growth.
“Knowing that I have the full support of my parents and teachers drives me to be the best that I can be.”
Also read: How to get pre-schoolers excited about maths
So, what’s Azure’s secret to success? “I am consistent with my studies. I quickly recognize mistakes and shortcomings, and work hard to fix them.”
She said her mom plays a significant role in preparing her for competitions, and also acknowledges the value of her Kumon studies. “I work with Kumon diligently, while still maintaining a very active social life. I enjoy learning new concepts at Kumon as this makes these concepts easier to grasp when they are introduced at school.”
She said Sophia Kyprianides, her mentor at Kumon, has been instrumental in her journey.
Beyond academics, Azura finds joy in helping others. “When my friends request that I assist them with their work in class, it makes me proud and is a privilege to help them.”
Azure’s parents encourage her learning every day. Her dad, an avid chess player, highlights the link between chess and maths, while rewarding her achievements with surprises and ‘Yes days’.
Currently, Azure says she enjoys gaming on Roblox, with her parents rewarding her progress with Robux.
She envisions studying medicine, alongside her mom at Dr Peer and Partners, eventually becoming a lecturer.
“I love teaching. With discipline and guidance from my parents and teachers, I believe I will achieve my goals, by God’s will.”
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Are you handing down your own Maths anxiety?
