Kamogelo Olaitan
A young KwaZulu-Natal student who is studying medicine in America has been shortlisted for the Chegg.org Global Student Prize for nurturing young scientists.
Iziphozonke Mlambo, 19, from Newcastle made it to the top 50 and was selected from almost 7,000 nominations and applications from 150 countries.
The prize is an annual award worth $100,000 (R1.7 million) given to one exceptional student who has made the most impact on learning, the lives of their peers and on society.
Mlambo is currently studying human biology at Biola University in California.
Raised with seven other dependents by his disabled uncle, he matriculated with flying colours at Newcastle High.
His profile on the Global Student Portal indicates that the teenager had a weak immune system as a child and was always in and out of hospital. This inspired him to become a doctor.
He co-founded Science Buddies, a non-profit organisation that nurtures young scientists by providing them with the opportunity to participate in global science fairs and competitions while giving them access to professional mentors.
So far, Science Buddies has reached over 100 learners from different backgrounds, connected them to over 50 mentors, and partnered with over 15 science fairs, societies and competitions worldwide.
Mlambo has represented South Africa at numerous international competitions and fairs across science.
He was named SA Junior Public Speaker of the year in 2018 and he is currently one of the executive members of the African Students Association at Biola University.
The top 10 finalists will be announced in August and the winner will be chosen from the finalists by the Global Student Prize Academy.
Chegg CEO Dan Rosensweig said since its launch last year, the Global Student Prize has given incredible students all over the world a chance to share their stories, connect with each other, and reach influencers in education and beyond.
“Now, more than ever, students like Iziphozonke deserve to have their stories told and have their voices heard,” Rosensweig said.
Last year’s winner was Jeremiah Thoronka, a 21-year-old student from Sierra Leone, who launched a start-up called Optim Energy that transforms vibrations from vehicles and pedestrian footfall on roads into an electric current.
