e4 Girls in STEM celebrate matric success and bright futures
Their exceptional achievements reflect a future where gender is no longer a barrier to success in these critical industries.
The Girls in STEM award ceremony hosted on January 31 at Thaba Eco Hotel marked a significant milestone in the journey of the young women who have defied the odds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
This year, 100% of the program’s matric cohort passed their exams, with many securing scholarships and university placements in sought-after STEM disciplines.
The e4 Girls in STEM programme, launched in 2021 by e4 in partnership with Melisizwe Computer Lab Project, equips young women in underprivileged communities with the knowledge, mentorship and confidence to succeed in technology-driven fields.
Over the past four years, the programme has created opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach, transforming academic potential into real-world success.
This year’s top achievers include Talitha Moosa, who achieved 95% in physical sciences and 96% in mathematics and will study actuarial science at Wits University; Mbali Shata, who earned distinctions in mathematics and physical science, has secured a full bursary from the University of Johannesburg to study Medicine and Aisha Patel, a standout performer in mathematics and physical science, has received orange carpet offers from both UCT and UJ for computer science.
According to Candice Kern-Thomas, CEO of Melisizwe, this programme is about more than just academic achievement – it is about creating a pipeline of future leaders in STEM.
“These young women are not just excelling academically; they are breaking barriers in an industry where female representation is still lacking.
Their success proves that, with the right support, talent, and determination, you can thrive. e4 was the first corporate sponsor to believe in this vision, and their investment has helped make this journey possible.”
Beyond funding, e4 has provided mentorship, career exposure and guidance throughout the learners’ high school careers.
Human resources and transformation executive at e4, Phylla Jele said: “This programme is not about charity, it is about building the future of the tech industry in South Africa. We believe empowering young women in STEM is a corporate and national responsibility. These young minds are the innovators, problem-solvers and leaders who will drive our economy forward.”
With a 51% retention rate from 2021, the programme has demonstrated its effectiveness in keeping girls engaged in STEM subjects while fostering confidence, ambition and excellence.
Many of these graduates were accepted into top universities with financial assistance, underscoring the tangible impact of sustained corporate and educational collaboration.
As the programme enters its next phase, Melisizwe and e4 focus on expanding their reach to more communities and ensuring more young women can pursue STEM careers.
“We have proven this model works,” expressed Kern-Thomas.
“Now is the time to scale. We need more industry players to step up, invest in education and help create an inclusive digital future.”
The Girls in STEM Awards is a moment of celebration, but more importantly, it is a call to action.
By investing in young women corporates, educators and policymakers can help shape a South Africa where talent, not circumstances, determines a child’s future.
