This Women’s Month, the North-West University (NWU) is celebrating females in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Michelle le Roux is studying for an MSc Business Mathematics and Informatics (BMI) at the NWU. She is a Golden Key student and was appointed as the best first-year student at the centre for BMI and the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences in 2022. She was also one of the top three matriculants in North West for 2021 – all three of whom studied at the NWU.

“Women’s Month at the NWU is about recognising that women have shaped our past and continue to shape our future. From the women of the 1956 march who fought for equality, to the lecturers, researchers and students driving innovation in STEM today, their impact is undeniable,” she said.

Le Roux noted that as an actuarial science student she encounters women who make important contributions in mathematics, statistics, finance and research. This shows that resilience and leadership create lasting change. 

“When we empower women to succeed, we strengthen our university, our profession, and the future we are building together,” she said.

She further said that at the NWU, she has experienced a respectful and inclusive learning environment that allowed her to focus on both her academic and personal development. 

“In my 2025 BSc Actuarial Science honours-degree class, 10 of the 12 students were female, which further reflects an environment in which women are well represented and able to succeed,” she said.

Her advice for other women who also want to study actuarial sciences at the NWU is that they should be willing to challenge themselves. Le Roux explained that her field is much more than statistics and financial mathematics, as it also requires strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.

“Allow yourself to feel uncomfortable at times, as this is often where the most growth happens. Do not be afraid to ask questions or seek help when you need it,” she said. 

The NWU provides a supportive learning environment with counselling services available to assist students when needed. Students should remember that they are their own greatest asset and should therefore prioritise their physical and mental well-being. 

“If you do not walk today, you will have to run tomorrow. Stay consistent,” Le Roux said. 

She is currently doing her practical for her master’s degree at Nedbank in Sandton during the second semester. When she is not busy with her master’s-degree project, she also enjoys a variety of hobbies such as swimming, Sudoku puzzles, ballet, painting and learning isiZulu on Duolingo, to name a few.

When asked what she thinks needs to still change for women in STEM, she says that she has felt supported as a female STEM student at the NWU and has always felt safe on campus. 

“While my experience has been positive, I believe continuing to promote mentorship and representation will help even more women pursue and succeed in STEM. I think we still need to encourage more young women to believe that they belong in fields such as mathematics and actuarial science,” she said. 

Le Roux also wants to see more women in senior academic and industry leadership roles, as having visible role models makes it easier for women to picture themselves succeeding in those positions. Seeing women lead, teach and conduct research gives students confidence that these opportunities are achievable.

Michelle le Roux, MSc Business Mathematics and Informatics student at the NWU