Science is for women too
She also credits this time period for developing her love for data science and artificial intelligence
Dimpho Mashile is a data science student currently on a learnership programme with a non-profit educational institution called Umuzi in Johannesburg.
She was born and bred in eMalahleni, and says her high school years spent at Hoër Tegniese Skool (HTS) Witbank are what put her on the path towards a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
She also credits this time period for developing her love for data science and artificial intelligence.
“I want to inspire other young girl coders out there who may be interested in exploring data science,” Dimpho explained.
Dimpho has been selected for Academy AI’s Artificial Intelligence Engineering Bootcamp which will be hosted in Barcelona, Spain.
Originally, Dimpho was chosen to attend this bootcamp from July 8 to September 15, but due to the short notice and her shortage of funds, she managed to renegotiate and is now expected to be in Barcelona from October 14 to December 20.
During this time, she will be exposed to 10 weeks of both theory and practical training in that area.
Not only has Dimpho been chosen to attend this prestigious learning occasion, but she has also been awarded a partial scholarship to the value of R39 100.
Dimpho is one of only seven recipients from over 500 applicants world wide – she is also the only South African attending this bootcamp.
“There is a need for women and people of colour in technology, and particularly within artificial intelligence. It is important that people working within this field be familiar with the lived experience of the data being analysed in order to deliver quality and useful solutions to communities and businesses alike. The knowledge and skills gained from this opportunity, coupled with my passion for human-centred solutions facilitated by cutting-edge technology, will allow me to do so,” she elaborated.
“I am passionate about data science and its endless possibilities. It is imperative that the people analysing the data must have lived the story in order to tell and improve it. Data Science allows everyone to be seen and understood and better served, but only if they are considered and form part of the dataset. It is also important that women and marginalised groups form part of the conversation in order to develop inclusive solutions,” Dimpho beamed, “I am still a ways from attending this dream of mine, though.”
Dimpho is still short 2 000 Euros despite her scholarship, and wont be able to make the trip to this prestigious learning occasion otherwise.
“If people would like to contact me with questions, or perhaps make a contribution to my cause, they’re welcome to email me at djomashile@gmail.com,” she concluded.
