In the heart of Queensburgh, two young women are challenging the traditional boundaries of what it means to be a woman in STEM. At just 23, Jadene Tarryn Pillay and Amrisha Baboolall are not only forging paths in their respective fields—they are also reshaping how STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is viewed and how it impacts the world, especially for women and communities in need.
Jadene Pillay, who recently graduated with a BSc in Computer Engineering from UKZN, sees STEM as more than just a career—she views it as a vehicle for change. She is deeply committed to making technology accessible and empowering others, especially young girls, to see themselves in roles they often feel excluded from.
Reflecting on her own journey, she recalls the lack of exposure to subjects like coding and robotics when she was in school. “There was no guidance or introduction to these fields when I was growing up. I had to teach myself the basics. It was challenging, but that experience shaped my belief in the importance of access.”
Her ambition is to make sure the next generation of girls doesn’t face the same barriers. “I want to bring tech workshops into underfunded schools, where girls can learn coding, robotics, and data science. I want them to see these paths as possibilities,” she said.
For Pillay, the inclusion of women in STEM is not just about breaking gender norms—it’s about creating a more holistic approach to problem-solving.
“Women bring empathy, collaboration, and an ethical perspective to the table. When we’re included, we ensure that the solutions we create consider everyone,” she said. Her perspective on the power of diversity in STEM is evident in her interests and passions for possible projects.
“I would focus on improving healthcare delivery in remote or rural areas. One idea I’m passionate about is creating smart medical devices—like a smart medication box that reminds patients to take their medication and alerts healthcare workers if doses are missed. With the right support, we could use AI and IT to reduce preventable illnesses and make healthcare more proactive and connected,” she added.
Amrisha Baboolall, a medical student and competitive swimmer, shares a similar view about the role of women in STEM. With her background in medicine, Baboolall understands that technological advancements in healthcare can change lives—but they need to be informed by those who truly understand the challenges that people face.
“STEM in healthcare is about more than just machines and research. It’s about how technology can make a tangible difference in people’s lives, especially in underserved communities,” she explained.
Baboolall sees a clear gap in how healthcare technology is designed and accessed in rural and disadvantaged areas. She believes women, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, are in the best position to bridge this divide.
She said: “We’re the ones who understand the needs of our communities, and we’re the ones who can build technologies that reflect those needs. For example, AI can be used to detect diseases early, and affordable medical devices can be developed with a deep understanding of real-world constraints. Women in STEM are vital to designing these solutions.”
Both Pillay and Baboolall are keenly aware of the lack of resources and mentorship opportunities available to young girls in their community.
“It’s discouraging but it’s also why we have to be visible and accessible. We need to show these girls that STEM is for them. It’s not just for the ‘geniuses’—it’s for anyone who is willing to learn, persevere, and grow,” she said.
Their passion for mentorship and community outreach is evident in their aspirations to create a lasting impact. Pillay dreams of launching programs that introduce girls to STEM careers and provide the support they need to thrive.
Pillay added: “Even just one conversation with a young girl can make a difference. You never know when you’ll spark that curiosity or help them see a future they didn’t think was possible.”
Baboolall is equally invested in providing access to opportunities for young women in her community. She believes that the unique qualities women bring to STEM—such as emotional intelligence, resilience, and creativity—are crucial in shaping the future. While their personal achievements are impressive, both women understand that the true power of women in STEM lies in the collective strength of the community they are building. They are committed to dismantling the barriers that still exist for women in these fields, and to creating a space where every girl can see STEM as a place for her.
Pillay said: “We need to stop telling girls that these fields are ‘too hard’ or ‘not for them’. If we want to change the world, we need more women involved in solving its biggest challenges. And that starts with showing up.”
Both Pillay and Baboolall are not only breaking barriers—they are building bridges for other women to follow. Through their determination, their work, and their commitment to uplifting others, they are proving that women in STEM are not just participants; they are the powerhouses driving innovation and change in the world.
