Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo, senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education and member of the Research Unit for Self-Directed Learning, has been invited as a panellist for the upcoming InnovateHER project launch, under the African Female Voices platform, which will be held at the University of Johannesburg on 10 May 2025.

Adding to the line-up, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation has confirmed that Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina will deliver the keynote address at the project launch. Gina, a long-time advocate for gender equity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and a former teacher, brings political and educational insights to the event.

"I was not initially aware of the InnovateHER project until I was approached and invited to participate," said Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo. "But the moment I learned about its purpose to empower young women in STEM through mentorship, visibility and voice, it immediately resonated with me."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo brings her background as a researcher, mother, and advocate for self-directed learning (SDL) to the initiative. "This initiative is far more than just another event," she said. "Growing up, science was not easy for me. It often felt abstract and disconnected from my everyday reality. Yet, even then, I made myself a promise: One day, I will be the reason a child finds joy and confidence in science."

For Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo, participating in InnovateHER is a continuation of that promise. She believes the project creates space for women to lead through education, mentorship and innovation. "My identity as a mother and a scientist is not a contradiction. It is my greatest strength."

When asked about the barriers women face in innovation and entrepreneurship, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo pointed to the impact of internalised beliefs. "One of the most significant barriers women face is the belief that we are not capable, that these spaces are not designed for us," she said. "These limits are reinforced by systems

that overlook the unique challenges women face, especially women from marginalised communities or caregiving roles."

She cited leaders like Prof Kelebogile Motaung, founder and CEO of Global Health Biotech, as examples of individuals who challenge these norms. "She powerfully balances the roles of scientist and entrepreneur. It reminds me that not only is it possible, it is transformative."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo is currently co-developing Renewable Rangers, a digital educational game aimed at children aged 4 to 6. The project, run in collaboration with Prof Byron Bunt and Dr Lance Bunt, focuses on renewable energy and is grounded in SDL principles. "The game transforms complex concepts into playful experiences. It makes science more inclusive and accessible."

According to Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo, InnovateHER offers a platform for grassroots innovations like Renewable Rangers to be acknowledged and supported. "It provides mentorship, community and the affirmation that we belong. We are already building the future we want to see."

She also shared a message for young women considering careers in STEM. "Choose a path that excites and inspires you. If you choose science, let it be because it lights you up inside. We are often told we must choose between motherhood and ambition, but that is a myth. I create, nurture and lead, while raising a child and designing learning experiences that serve others."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo emphasised the importance of lifelong learning. "Be self-directed. Learn beyond the textbook. Innovation is not a straight line, it is a mindset. And it begins with trusting your own journey."

Looking ahead to the InnovateHER event, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo said she is looking forward the most to engaging with Grade 12 girls. "I want to hear their stories, share mine, and hopefully inspire them. If even one girl walks away from the event feeling seen, heard and capable, then this initiative will have served its purpose."

She concluded by sharing her hopes for the long-term future of the initiative. "I hope InnovateHER evolves into a platform for sustained mentorship, scholarship opportunities and learning networks that promote critical thinking, creativity and

lifelong learning. I envision it helping to build a generation of women who not only enter STEM fields but transform them."

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo joins the InnovateHER project launch as a panellist, bringing her expertise in STEM Education to inspire the next generation of young women in STEM.