In brief
At just 35, Dr. Angela Tabiri has made history by becoming the first African winner of The Big Internet Math Off competition. As the “Maths Queen,” Tabiri hopes to inspire a new generation of African women to pursue mathematics, a field where female participation has traditionally lagged. She currently serves as the academic manager of the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme, a mentorship initiative aimed at encouraging high school girls in Ghana to embrace the subject.
Despite the equal numbers of girls and boys studying mathematics in Ghanaian high schools, the disparity becomes stark at the university level, where many girls drop out due to assumptions about their career options. Dr. Tabiri, having faced her own obstacles growing up in a less privileged environment, is determined to change this narrative. Her work centers around empowering young girls through her non-profit organization, FemAfricMaths, where she provides lessons and engages young students online.A significant inspiration for her journey was the film "Hidden Figures," showcasing the unrecognized contributions of black women mathematicians. Dr. Tabiri took this motivation to heart, emphasizing persistence and resilience in her work. Furthermore, she is passionate about the future of quantum science and plans to accelerate the introduction of quantum technology concepts in schools, aiming for a more skilled future workforce in Africa.Ghana took a pioneering role in proposing the 2025 UN International Year of Quantum Science, reflecting the continent's ambition in this cutting-edge field. With projects like the "Quantum Hackathon" planned for students from across Africa, Dr. Tabiri's vision is clear: equipping the youth with the necessary skills for the imminent quantum revolution and ensuring they contribute positively to the continent's development.By challenging existing stereotypes and providing support through education, Dr. Angela Tabiri is paving the way for future generations of women in mathematics, defying the odds, and standing at the forefront of innovation in Africa.
