Redhill School physicist shines at global physics competition
Hard work, curiosity, and saying yes to new opportunities took local learner Gabrielle Berger from Johannesburg to an international physics competition in Bucaramanga, Colombia.
What began as a fun challenge has turned into the opportunity of a lifetime.
Redhill School learner Gabriella Berger had the chance to represent South Africa at the 56th International Physics Olympiad in Bucaramanga, Colombia.
Gabriella was selected as one of only five learners to represent the country after excelling in the South African Physics Olympiad, as well as a national selection test.
She admitted the news came as a complete surprise. “I was very shocked. I was also very excited. It took a while to settle in because I had no idea that writing the Olympiad last year would lead to this.”
Preparing for the competition was no easy task. Beyond the matric syllabus, Gabriella had to master first and second-year university physics content.
“The most challenging part was covering all the work. It was very overwhelming at first, but I approached it slowly and made sure I understood everything.”
Competing alongside some of the world’s brightest young physicists left a lasting impression on her.
“I realised that physics is universal. We all speak different languages, and come from different cultures, but we’re able to connect through physics. They inspired me because everyone had worked incredibly hard and had different experiences.”
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While the examinations were demanding, Gabriella said the friendships and celebrations after the competition became some of her favourite memories. “My favourite moment was the closing ceremony. We had met everyone by then, and we were able to dance, celebrate, and just have fun together.”
Looking back, Gabriella encourages other learners to embrace opportunities, even when they seem small.
“I would tell younger learners to work hard, try new things, and be open to opportunities. If I hadn’t decided to write the Physics Olympiad for fun, I would never have qualified for this.”
She hopes her journey inspires more young people to challenge themselves and pursue their interests in science.
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