Our journey to STEAM

In the past few years, as part of my chosen life purpose — to enable others — I have been working at Girls Invent Tomorrow which aims to create future female STEAM leaders. When we started this non-profit entity, we were driven by the urge to have a more balanced representation and influence in Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics in the workplace.

Lieutenant Colonel Phetogo Molawa is commander and helicopter pilot in the South African Air Force. In 2007 she qualified as the first black female helicopter pilot in the South African Air Force.

My name is Jade Elms, a 22 year old female from Eldorado Park. I am a Qualified Aircraft Maintenance Technician (Working on Helicopters). I am working toward acquiring my AME license one day.

1. What do Aircraft Maintenance Technicians do?

An Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) assists in the maintenance of the aircraft. They ensure that the aircraft is in good condition by performing a variety of inspections and repairs on it. They are trained to perform work on aircraft engines and pneumatic systems, diagnose issues and repair and/ replace defective parts. Their inspection duties may include performing regular preventative inspections and examining that various parts and completed work meet the relevant quality standards.

My name is Chrystal Mbu and I am currently doing my 4^th year in MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery). I attended the 2014 GFPA Space and Aviation camp and it was one of the 3 high school experiences that inspired me. I remember back in 2014 I was doing grade 10 and I was not too sure what I wanted to pursue after high school.

My name is Amanda Duma, I am 21 years old and I am from Port Edward, KwaZulu-Natal. I attended the Girls Fly Programme in Africa foundation Aviation and Space Camp when I was doing Grade 10 in 2015 along with a few of my school mates in other grades.

1. What do Architects do?

Architects use their creativity and practical understanding of structure and materials for the design of the human environment - mostly buildings, groups of buildings and often the spaces between the buildings. They design places and spaces that people need in order to live, play, work, learn, worship, shop, meet and eat.

It’s not always easy to identify what more one can do- at least in a practical way- to diversify your skill set. Especially if you’re already ticking all the clearly outlined, hard-skill boxes, such as studying (or having already obtained) a University level qualification in STEAM.