South Africa’s first black female nuclear scientist, Senamile Masango, a trailblazer who set out to inspire young women, has died at the age of 37.
Ms Masango, dubbed “the queen of science” by some in South Africa, passed away on Sunday. The cause of her death is unknown.
Headstrong and ambitious, she “was a beacon of hope for many young people, especially women”, a statement from Deputy President Paul Mashatile said.
Despite her success she said she faced discrimination as a black woman as she constantly had to prove that she knew what she was talking about.
Nevertheless, her unwavering determination earned her deep respect in her field.
Ms Masango was the first African woman to join an African-led team conducting experiments at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research which is the world’s largest particle physics laboratory.
“Masango’s tireless efforts to promote science education and empowerment, particularly among women and disadvantaged communities, will be deeply missed,” a statement from South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation said.
Born in 1987 in the rural village of Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, the historical seat of the Zulu monarchy, Ms Masango’s mother was a princess in the royal family, and her father was a prominent figure.
She grew up in a polygamous family, with her mother being the youngest of three wives.
It was a challenging family set-up, she told local newspaper Sowetan Live, but she learned how to stand up for herself.
Her parents quickly recognised her early passion for learning and encouraged her to read extensively.
