Dr. Angela Tabiri, recognized as the Maths Queen in Ghana, has made history by becoming the first African to win The Big Internet Math Off competition. Despite nearly avoiding mathematics altogether, the 35-year-old now dedicates her life to solving mathematical puzzles and mentoring girls in Ghana—encouraging them to explore the world of mathematics, a field traditionally dominated by boys. Dr. Tabiri’s remarkable journey highlights the importance of female role models and initiatives aimed at bridging the gender gap in STEM subjects.
The Maths Queen: Empowering African Girls Through Quantum Science
The Maths Queen: Empowering African Girls Through Quantum Science
Dr. Angela Tabiri, known as the Maths Queen, is on a mission to inspire young African girls in mathematics and quantum science.
Dr. Tabiri’s passion for mathematics revolves around her research in quantum algebra at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Ghana, where she also serves as the academic manager for the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme. This initiative supports high school girls interested in mathematics, aiming to equip them with the skills and confidence to pursue careers in STEM.
Growing up in Ashaiman, a low-income area in Ghana, Dr. Tabiri's initial ambitions were rooted in business administration. However, her admission to study mathematics became a turning point in her life. A pivotal moment came during her PhD at Glasgow University when she watched "Hidden Figures," a film about black female mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during segregation in the US. Inspired by their dedication, she now strives to provide similar inspiration to young girls in Africa.
Despite the balanced ratio of girls and boys studying mathematics at the high school level, Dr. Tabiri observes a significant drop in female representation at the university level, largely due to misconceptions about career prospects in mathematics. Striving to change this narrative, she founded FemAfricMaths, a nonprofit organization offering guidance and lessons to young students and frequently sharing interviews with female mathematicians online.
With excited anticipation for the upcoming UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025, Dr. Tabiri is passionate about the potential of quantum mechanics, particularly its relation to innovative solutions in sectors like medicine, cybersecurity, and environmental sciences. She aims to kickstart interest in quantum science among schoolchildren through proposed workshops and hackathons, ensuring that young students are equipped for future challenges.
Dr. Tabiri’s efforts succinctly address the urgent need to empower the next generation of girls in mathematics, making strides toward a future where their contributions can reshape industries and inspire future leaders in science and technology.
Growing up in Ashaiman, a low-income area in Ghana, Dr. Tabiri's initial ambitions were rooted in business administration. However, her admission to study mathematics became a turning point in her life. A pivotal moment came during her PhD at Glasgow University when she watched "Hidden Figures," a film about black female mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during segregation in the US. Inspired by their dedication, she now strives to provide similar inspiration to young girls in Africa.
Despite the balanced ratio of girls and boys studying mathematics at the high school level, Dr. Tabiri observes a significant drop in female representation at the university level, largely due to misconceptions about career prospects in mathematics. Striving to change this narrative, she founded FemAfricMaths, a nonprofit organization offering guidance and lessons to young students and frequently sharing interviews with female mathematicians online.
With excited anticipation for the upcoming UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025, Dr. Tabiri is passionate about the potential of quantum mechanics, particularly its relation to innovative solutions in sectors like medicine, cybersecurity, and environmental sciences. She aims to kickstart interest in quantum science among schoolchildren through proposed workshops and hackathons, ensuring that young students are equipped for future challenges.
Dr. Tabiri’s efforts succinctly address the urgent need to empower the next generation of girls in mathematics, making strides toward a future where their contributions can reshape industries and inspire future leaders in science and technology.
