Rhodes University would like to congratulate Tsebang Matlapeng, a chemistry MSc student who will represent Rhodes University in this year's national #FameLabSA final later on this year. The local FameLab competition was held on campus on the 14th of March 2024, where participants had just three minutes to captivate both public audiences and judges with their research. The participants had a great two days with the Jive Media Team preparing them for the competition where Prof Jo Dames (Dean of Science) congratulated them and encouraged them to breathe through their three minutes. Runner ups for the local competition were Havilah Nnadozie and Sinetemba Xoxo both from the Institute of Water Research. Rhodes thanks all the participants for taking the time out of their busy schedules and prioritising science communication.
Reflecting on her journey, Tsebang says she received invaluable training at the workshop run by Jive Media Africa. "Fun, informative, and interactive," she described it, emphasising the facilitators' role in fostering an “engaging and positive learning environment".
"I am excited about science communication because it helps reach a broader audience," she says. "A lot of what we do in research is inspired by the everyday problems that the people around us face, but then we neglect those very same people when it comes to sharing our research. "
"My research area is supramolecular chemistry, which looks at the formation of new chemical structures that are held together by weak attractive forces," Tsebang explained. She says that her research is important because it can contribute to the creation of new treatments that are more effective and show less side effects.
From breaking down complex research into digestible nuggets to fostering confidence and empathy, #FameLab opens doors and supports scientists like Tsebang to make a real difference.
Rhodes University looks forward to welcoming Jive Media back next year to start making this an annual event!
Written by Kim Weaver, Centre for Biological Control, Rhodes University and Jive Media Africa