At just 18 years old, young scientist Simesihle Khuzwayo is already proving that determination, curiosity, and a love for learning can open the door to extraordinary possibilities.
The Grade 12 learner at a non-fee-paying school, King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal’s remarkable performance at the 45th Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) has positioned her among South Africa’s leading young scientists, and her story is one of perseverance, passion and purpose.
Khuzwayo was awarded one of four Babcock International NextGen Engineering bursaries for the research project, “Double Trouble Double Solution: Neutralising Acid & Plastics with Nature’s Help” which she developed with her twin sister Melokuhle. She was also awarded an Eskom full bursary, which covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks and a living allowance for studies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at accredited South African universities.
The twins investigated whether autolysed biomass extracts (ABE), derived from banana peel and yeast, could serve as sustainable alternatives to traditional liming agents for both pH neutralisation and microplastic removal in acidic wastewater. Their findings suggest that, with further refinement, ABEs could become low-cost solutions for rural communities lacking access to conventional wastewater treatment methods.
When her name was announced among the winners at the Eskom Expo ISF Special Awards on 9 October, Khuzwayo described the feeling as “unreal.” “Every late night, every failed experiment, every moment of doubt suddenly made sense,” she said. “It showed me that hard work and consistency really do pay off. For me, it wasn’t just about the award, it was about knowing that my work mattered.”
“I’ve always taken my studies seriously because I believe education is one of the best ways to change your life and make a difference in your community,” said Khuzwayo. “For me, science isn’t just about experiments, it’s about finding solutions that can improve people’s lives.”
The Eskom Expo ISF, held annually, brought together top young scientists from across South Africa and around the world to present their research in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI). The 2025 edition, hosted at Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, featured participants from South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, India, Russia, Ghana and Mexico, all showcasing innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
For Khuzwayo, the event was about more than competition, it was about connection and discovery. “Meeting learners from different provinces and countries who shared the same excitement for science was amazing. It was inspiring to exchange ideas and see how others approach similar challenges. Standing before the judges and explaining my project was nerve-wracking but also one of the proudest moments of my life,” she said.
Outside of school and the science lab, Khuzwayo is a well-rounded academic with a flair for communication. She loves reading, debating, writing stories, and public speaking. “I’ve been addicted to reading since I was young,” she said. “When I ran out of fictional books, I started reading the serious ones, that’s how my love for science began. Reading opened my mind to how the world works and made me want to understand it better.”
Khuzwayo’s introduction to Eskom Expo for Young Scientists came through encouragement from her teachers, who saw her curiosity as a spark worth nurturing. “I joined Eskom Expo because it gave young people a chance to turn ideas into something real. What started as curiosity grew into a deep passion for research and innovation,” she explained.
Her passion for STEMI is deeply rooted in curiosity and compassion. “I’ve always wanted to use science to help solve problems that affect people’s lives, especially in communities that are often overlooked,” she said.
To young aspiring scientists preparing for their first science fair, Khuzwayo offers heartfelt advice: “Start with something you care about and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every challenge teaches you something. Believe in your idea even when it’s hard. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the experience because that’s how you grow the most,” she said.
Read more:
Young innovators shine at the 45th Eskom Expo International Science Fair
Young scientists celebrated at Eskom Expo International Science Fair
Young innovators earn massive prizes at Eskom Expo International Science Fair
Eskom Expo International Science Fair – Special award winners
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