Determined to better her life after not being accepted to study medicine, Dersley resident Apiwe Hotele (31) is a social entrepreneur who has set her sights on bettering the lives of young children.
She believes it was a blessing in disguise because she fell in love with computer science in her first year of studying for a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, the bridge to medicine.
She holds a BSc in Computer Science and Biochemistry cum laude from the University of Fort Hare and a Master of Science (MSc) in computer engineering from the University of Cape Town.
Apiwe is a passionate advocate for female inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Her mission is to create a society inclusive in STEM regardless of background, race, gender, or age.
She aims to create a community where technology is used to improve lives and the economic status of ordinary South Africans and the broader African continent.
Apiwe did not allow circumstances to be her stumbling block after she managed to get the results she needed with the minimum resources available to her.
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“In front of our home, there is a high school and every time I would fetch water from the community tap, I would hear students complaining about mathematics and science and how they wanted to quit because it was hard and they did not have teachers,” said Apiwe.
“I suddenly realised that I am not alone; there are many Apiwes. Since that day, I have dedicated myself to making sure that no one goes through what I went through.
“I promised myself that I would raise awareness and advocate for inclusion,” she recalls.
She added she also promised herself she would be an example so that through her, people could see that children from rural areas are capable.
Through this, Apiwe started an NGO called #BreakingTheStereotype, aimed at motivating young girls to take on mathematics and science in high school.
“The organisation also encourages students studying science and engineering at institutions of higher learning and supports science and engineering professionals.
“We have monthly venting sessions where women in STEM have authentic discussions about challenges faced by students at university.”
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This month, the organisation will host the inaugural Diversity in STEM: Empowering Her Voice Oral Competition on August 26 at Pinegrove Primary School.
Apiwe also runs a technology company that provides EduTech and IoT (Internet of Things) products as well as services to strengthen the education system in South Africa and promote entrepreneurship in STEM.
“Our first product is a web application platform for learners to better their performance in mathematics and physical science, for talented tutors to find work, and to lighten the admin burden for tutoring companies.
“Through the platform, learners have live sessions with tutors and complete homework and assignments, thereby ensuring that tutors have less administration.”
The platform uses data analytics to collect extensive data about the learner’s progress, giving tutors, teachers, and parents a view of how learners are doing and allowing them to identify focus areas.
She said the platform ensures learners stay encouraged and motivated through the gamification feature.
Her vision is to pioneer the next generation of STEM leaders who actively become part of the global knowledge economy.
“Education is still the key to success. Education grants you access to places and people you would not have access to if not educated.
“Parents should also invest in their children’s education and try their best to consider tutoring sessions because education is the foundation to a successful and prosperous future,” Apiwe concluded.
