Sinoxolo’s Journey in Science and Tech Reminds Us That Resilience Matters

Growing up in a rural area, Sinoxolo Nene discovered her love for problem-solving and mathematics, eventually carving out a successful career in data science and software development.

South Africa (16 February 2026) – As the world marked International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, Sinoxolo Moyomuhle Nene’s journey stands as a reminder that careers are not always linear and that resilience often shapes the most meaningful paths.

Growing up in a rural area, Sinoxolo always loved mathematics. It was the one subject she could teach herself and excel in.

“At the time, I didn’t know that enjoying maths meant I loved problem-solving.”

Career options presented to her were limited to what she saw around her: teaching, nursing and engineering.

She was then encouraged by her teachers to enrol in engineering, but soon realised it was not for her. Three semesters in, she made the difficult decision to change direction, opting instead for a BSc majoring in mathematics and physics.

That decision would lay the foundation for an academic journey that led to a master’s degree in physics at UKZN. Initially, she had no intention of pursuing postgraduate studies. However, funding and encouragement from her supervisors opened doors she felt she could not ignore. When the conversation turned to a PhD, she paused.

“I realised academia was not the path I wanted long-term.”

Instead, she expressed interest in data science, and her supervisors intentionally shaped her research to equip her with relevant skills.

Sinoxolo works as a junior developer, having expanded her skills from data analytics into software development. Along the way, resilience became more than a buzzword; it became a way of navigating uncertainty.

“I didn’t always have a clear picture of where I was going, but I kept taking the opportunities in front of me and trusting that each step was shaping me.”

Her journey has not been without challenges. As the only woman in her development team at one stage, she felt the weight of representation.

“It can feel like your performance represents more than just you. But over time, I realised that I deserve to be in those spaces, just like anyone else.”

For her, International Day of Women and Girls in Science is significant because it highlights possibilities and challenges outdated thinking.

“It is important because it shows young girls that there are no limits to what they can pursue. Women should not be boxed into what society thinks they can or cannot do. We can choose our own paths.”

Beyond her work in tech, Sinoxolo is anchored in her faith, which grounds her identity and gives her confidence beyond professional titles. Through her blog and journal project, she encourages others to reflect deeply on who they are.

“When you are secure in who you are, you can show up fully even in spaces that feel intimidating. Your identity is bigger than your job title.”

Her biggest message to those in science (and perhaps other career aspirations) is to remember that you can be so much more than just your job title.

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Passionate about sharing stories of growth and resilience. From sports to the ways business, travel, and art shape communities. When she’s not writing, she’s likely out on a run or discovering new coffee spots.