Dr Avuyile Mbangatha’s journey from a small village in the Eastern Cape to international acclaim in medicine and advocacy is a compelling story of purpose, perseverance, and the power of science to change lives.
As an alumnus of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, his story is not just inspirational, it’s a demonstration of what is possible when talent is developed, and dreams are backed by opportunity.
“At heart, I’m still a young boy from a small village, driven by purpose, fuelled by compassion and committed to changing lives through health, advocacy, and equity,” says Dr Mbangatha.
Hailing from Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape, Dr Mbangatha is currently a Medical Registrar specialising in Pathology, with a particular passion for the intersection between Public Health and Infectious Diseases. Over the past five years, he has gained global experience in health policy, HIV/TB advocacy, and championing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“My mission is to drive innovative, integrated healthcare solutions, especially for marginalised communities that are often left behind. I’m passionate about uniting stakeholders to achieve meaningful, lasting impact,” he said.
Dr Mbangatha credits the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists as a foundational part of his development as a young changemaker.
“What inspired me to participate in the Eskom Expo was a deep passion for science and a desire to find solutions to the challenges I saw in my community,” he says. “The Expo offered a platform where young people like me could explore ideas, innovate, and be taken seriously.”
A major influence on his early scientific ambitions was fellow Eastern Cape native and Expo alumnus, Siyabulela Xuza. Xuza’s journey from Mthatha to global recognition inspired Mbangatha to believe in his own potential. But the path wasn’t easy.
“I entered the Eskom Expo three times before excelling at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) in 2014. Each project, whether it won or not, pushed me to grow, think critically, and never give up. That perseverance helped build the confidence and determination I still carry today,” he says.
One of his most memorable moments was being selected to represent South Africa at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in 2015, his first time on a plane, and a powerful reminder of how science could take him places.
“Being among top young scientists from around the world showed me that my ideas had value on a global stage,” he says.
Dr Mbangatha also fondly remembers meeting Minister Naledi Pandor, whose words on youth leadership and science left a deep impression. He credits Eskom Expo Academic Director, Dr Krishnie Naidoo; Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty; former Eskom Expo National Manager, Priscilla Moodley; and former Eskom Expo Cape Town Regional Science Fair Director, Olga Peel as mentors who “taught me resilience and helped me reach that international platform.”
Since completing high school, Dr Mbangatha has remained connected to the Expo, serving as a judge and guest speaker at various regional fairs.
“It’s important to me to give back and support the next generation of young scientists,” he says, while planning to continue this involvement, including judging at the Gauteng Regional Science Fairs and, hopefully, at the Eskom Expo ISF.
After beginning his medical studies at Stellenbosch University in 2016, Dr Mbangatha quickly distinguished himself. He was named one of Elsevier ClinicalKey’s Global Top Medical Students and received the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Social Impact and Service Provision.
His accolades are numerous and impressive: the News24 Mandela Young Leader Award, Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans, the Africa COVID-19 Hero Award, NYDA’s Trailblazer Award, and the Clinix Outstanding Clinician Award in 2024.
He has also served as a United Nations Change The World Ambassador and a Global Youth Ambassador for TheirWorld, advocating for access to quality education worldwide.
“These milestones reflect my ongoing commitment to driving health equity and innovation for marginalised communities,” he says.
Dr Mbangatha’s love for science started at home. “My passion for STEMI started while I was growing up, watching my dad work as a paramedic. Seeing how he used science and quick thinking to save lives made me appreciate the real-world impact of STEM,” he says.
This early exposure to healthcare, combined with the systemic inequalities he witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, deepened his desire to specialise in medicine and public health. “I saw how policy, advocacy, and frontline care could come together to drive real change,” he adds.
To learners preparing to take part in Eskom Expo for the first time, he offers heartfelt advice: “Be patient and resilient, success doesn’t come overnight. Every project, every challenge is a chance to learn. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Stay curious, stay passionate, and believe in your ability to create change.”
To educators and mentors, he says, “Work closely with school leadership, the district education department, and sponsors. Consistent mentorship and a strong support system are essential to help students succeed.”
Registration to take part in Eskom Expo in 2026 is open. Learners and teachers can register by clicking here.
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