Tributes pour in for Senamile Masango, a pioneering figure in nuclear science, who fought discrimination and encouraged young women to pursue STEM fields.
South Africa Pays Tribute to Revolutionary Female Nuclear Scientist
South Africa Pays Tribute to Revolutionary Female Nuclear Scientist
Senamile Masango, the first black woman nuclear scientist in South Africa, dies at 37, leaving an inspiring legacy.
Senamile Masango, South Africa's first black female nuclear scientist, has tragically passed away at the age of 37, as confirmed by government officials. Known as "the queen of science," Masango’s death on Sunday has sent waves of grief through the country. The specific circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasized that she "was a beacon of hope for many young people, especially women." Despite her trailblazing accomplishments, Masango often faced discrimination as a black woman in her field and felt the pressure to constantly validate her expertise.
Her journey was marked by remarkable milestones, including being the first African woman to collaborate with an African-led team at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN), the world’s largest particle physics laboratory. In a statement, South Africa's Department of Science, Technology and Innovation expressed that Masango’s efforts to promote science, technology, and education among women and disadvantaged communities will be profoundly missed.
Born in 1987 in the historical village of Nongoma in KwaZulu-Natal, Masango was raised in a polygamous family that encouraged her academic pursuits. Masango discovered her passion for science at a young age after a geography teacher spoke of astronauts, which sparked her fascination with physics.
She began her studies in physics at the University of Zululand at age 16, but personal hardships led her to take a break. With her family's support, Masango completed her degree and went on to earn a Master’s in nuclear physics with distinction from the University of the Western Cape.
A tragic loss in her personal life occurred when her daughter died in a car accident at the age of seven. Nevertheless, Masango remained committed to her mission. She founded an initiative dedicated to empowering young women and advocating for greater representation of women in science, particularly in nuclear fields.
Recognized for her achievements, Masango was listed among South Africa's most successful black women scientists under 35 in 2019 and achieved notable accolades in her field, including the International Women in Science Award in 2022.
Throughout her career, Masango grappled with systemic barriers, stating, “If you look like me, no-one believes in you; you must prove that you know your job.” She acknowledged the challenge of a true lack of representation in science for black women, which only fueled her determination.
Senamile Masango’s legacy continues to inspire many to pursue careers in science and shatter glass ceilings in male-dominated fields.
