A recently established organisation known as the Bright Young Ladies Initiative is making a significant impact on the local community. Founded in Thohoyandou in 2019 by two visionary youths, Anza Tshipetane and Rokunda Lukoto, the organisation aims to inspire young people to engage actively in science and innovation, and their efforts are already yielding positive results.
Annually, they organise the Science and Innovation Challenge. This year, because of a lack of funds, they were unable to conduct the challenge. However, this setback turned out to be a blessing in disguise as they organised a science-essay competition for high school students in Vhembe instead. This initiative was facilitated with the assistance of Ndifelani Phalanndwa, an education official in Vhembe.
Tshipetane, the CEO of the organisation, explained that the essay competition focused on addressing social issues and their impact within participants' communities, with an emphasis on utilising scientific approaches for assessment. The organisation's global network enabled collaboration with another entity, called the Young Scientists of Africa (YOSA), a UK-based charity organization. YOSA generously offered fully paid scholarships to the top emerging scientists from the essay competition to attend the 64th London International Youth Science Forum in the UK. Following a rigorous selection process, the top two candidates, Thompho Tshavhungwe from Thengwe High and Nshavo Chauke from EPP Mhinga Secondary, were chosen to participate in this prestigious annual science event held from 26 July to 11 August.
Rokunda Lukoto, chairperson of the Bright Young Ladies Initiative, mentioned that in addition to the trip, the organisation will also provide the scholars with textbooks and other necessary stationery for their Grade 12 studies. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Univen Vuwani Science Centre, the organisation plans to conduct extra practical lessons for the schools involved. Lukoto, as a student at the University of Venda, expressed her commitment to inclusive societal projects and efforts to ensure that more schools and students benefit from the university's resources.