As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we recognise women who are making a difference through their expertise, leadership, and commitment to progress.
Today we feature Nelson Mandela University alumna Emmerenthia De Bruyn, who holds a National Diploma and a BTech in Environmental Health. She serves as a SHE Officer at PPC Africa, where she is dedicated to promoting safety, health, and environmental responsibility. Her journey inspires the next generation of women and girls to pursue careers in science and to create meaningful change.
What first sparked your interest in pursuing a career in science?
I’ve always wanted to understand how things work, especially the relationship between science, engineering, and health. It’s important to see how these fields interact in driving research, continual improvement, and sustainability.
What’s something you wish students better understood about working in this field?
The field is incredibly diverse and offers many opportunities in both the private and public sectors. You need passion and a clear understanding of what the work entails. A career in STEM is not just about a paycheck - it’s about making a difference every day.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
You never stop learning, and you must work hard. Be open to change in your work environment. STEM requires agility, curiosity, doing your own research, and always being willing to learn something new.
What’s a common myth about women in science that you would love to debunk?
That women are fragile, don’t like getting their hands dirty, or lack the knowledge needed to pursue a career in science.
What message would you like to share with young females considering a future in STEM?
Go for it. Never give up, and don’t let anyone determine your worth. Persevere. Start from the bottom - because from there, the only direction is upward.
As we mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate professionals who are opening doors, challenging perceptions, and inspiring those who will follow. Their stories remind us that the future of science is brighter when everyone has the opportunity to be part of it.