The 14 fellows – 12 doctoral and 2 post-doctoral –are drawn from five countries in sub-Saharan Africa (Ghana, Mauritius, Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria).
They were selected for the scientific excellence of their work from more than 480 applicants by a jury of independent experts.
“The world needs science, and science needs women: nowhere is this more clearly illustrated than in African countries, which face significant challenges including climate change, access to energy or food security. Science and technology are key to addressing these challenges, and this will not be possible without women. Their talents and perspectives enrich relevant research,” says Alexandra Palt, Executive Vice President of the L’Oréal Foundation.
These 14 brilliant young women researchers will also benefit from a major communications campaign on the African continent, designed to promote and publicise their brilliance and raise public awareness.
This entire initiative serves one goal: highlight scientific excellence of female researchers in sub-Saharan Africa, in order to create role models, encourage other young women to become scientists and empower women to shape the future of the continent.
The L’Oreal-UNESCO For Women in Science sub-Saharan Africa regional programme has grown significantly since its inception.
“After eight editions in South Africa, we decided to host our ceremony in Nairobi to reinforce our commitment to giving all sub-Saharan African women scientists an opportunity”, she concluded.
Palt also announced that the program will be split into one local program focusing on South Africa and another one for the pan-African region in 2019.
Additional and increased fellowships up to 20, will be provided to the pan- African program.