POLOKWANE – Jabez Christian School is celebrating one of its brightest stars after learner Jerusha Mthombeni won a bronze medal at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF).

Mthombeni impressed international judges with her groundbreaking project, the neuro-resection needle, entered under the category of Bio-Medical and Medical Science.

The ISF took place from September 28 to October 2 at the Birchwood Hotel in Gauteng, attracting young scientists from across South Africa and the world.

From 18 000 to 300 finalists

She told Review that her journey to the international stage began at district level, where she competed in the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists against approximately 18 000 participants at various venues across the country, including learners and university students.

From that large pool, only 300 finalists were chosen to take part in the ISF, including participants from Brazil, India, China and Russia.

Mthombeni was among them, proudly representing Jabez Christian School, Limpopo and South Africa.

During the two-night awards ceremony in Gauteng, close to 100 learners received medals and bursaries for matric.

National success before international stage

Before her international success, Mthombeni had already made her mark nationally.

At the national science fair, held at Jack Botes Hall, she received:

• A gold medal
• The award for best female project
• The best in category award for bio-medical and medical science

“First and foremost, all glory and honour goes to God. I want to thank God for His guidance, His grace, and His favour throughout this entire journey. From the district competition, to the national science fair, and now to the International Science Fair, it was never by my own strength, but by His hand upon my life,” she said.

She expressed that during the national science fair, she had achieved everything she had ever wanted to achieve.

“And during the ISF, although I did not get what I was aiming for, it was still a proud moment for me because I had represented my school, province and country as many did not reach this far,” she said.

Dreams of bringing cancer research to life

Mthombeni’s dream and vision is to make a greater impact, and possibly get sponsorship to bring her cancer research to life.

“I hope to secure sponsorship to develop my cancer research project further and make a lasting impact in the medical field.”

Principal expresses pride

The principal, Dr Elana Erasmus, also expressed immense pride in Mthombeni’s achievement, which she said served as an inspiration to other learners to dream big and pursue excellence in science and innovation.