Hoërskool Randburg alumna and former Windsor Glen resident is recognised globally for her research
Leané Naudé ( takes third place in the 2022–2023 Blue Sky Young Researchers Innovation Awards programme for her research into the application of lignosulphonate in high-end products.
If girls are told they can accomplish anything, and they are given opportunities to job shadow or even do a holiday job, we will see more successful women in the Stem fields.
So said Leané Naudé (25) who clinched third place in the 2022–2023 Blue Sky Young Researchers Innovation Awards programme, a global initiative driven by the International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA), for her research into the application of lignosulphonate in high-end products.
She was speaking in an interview with the Randburg Sun, where she also looked back at her time as a Hoërskool Randburg learner (she matriculated with five distinctions in 2016 with an average of 81%).
The former Windsor Glen resident is now a Master of Science (Chemical Engineering) student at North-West University.
She explained that her research involves finding a more sustainable and affordable way of purifying lignosulphonate.
“Lignosulphonate can be used in water treatment, energy resources, binding materials, and in carbon capturing,” she said.
“However it is necessary to be purified first before being used in high value products. The current methods available are expensive and unsustainable.”
Looking back, Naudé said she has fond memories of Hoërskool Randburg.
“I remember the real ‘blue machine spirit’ (blou masjiengees) that they had. I remember fondly the teachers who really put so much effort into teaching us. I especially remember Juffrou Ellenize Mans (maths) and Juffrou Lin Naudé (science) that really had an influence on me. Their kindness and dedication really inspired me.”
For his part, principal Pieter Booysen said the school is proud of Naude’s achievements and award.
“To be chosen as number three worldwide is exceptional,” he said.
“Success is what happens after school and we are privileged to have played our part in the development of successful people like Leané.”
Naudé believes times are changing when the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields were dominated by men.
“We see more and more women in Stem roles than before, bridging the gap bit by bit. This I believe is attributed to showing young girls, successful women role models in Stem fields.”
Encouraging and providing opportunities for girls is also making a difference, she said.
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