From Khayelitsha to flying South African flag high at global science fair

Salusiwe Mxayiya from Luhlaza High School in Khayelitsha along with three other exceptional young innovators from Johannesburg are flying the South African flag high in Columbus, Ohio, at the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists winners are representing the country at Regeneron ISEF 2025, the world’s largest pre-college Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) competition, with four cutting-edge research projects that reflect the innovation, scientific curiosity, and global competitiveness of the country’s young scientists.

Regeneron ISEF 2025, takes place from May 10 to 16.

This year’s fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary and will feature research projects from more than 1 800 learners from nearly every state in the USA and more than 60 countries, regions and territories.

Seventeen-year-old Salusiwe said representing the country at the competition was a dream come true.

Her project, “Investigating the infection rates of Hector’s lantern fish by the copepod parasite and the implications for population dynamics,” offers groundbreaking insights into the population dynamics of marine species impacted by parasitic infection. Her research reveals that infected lantern fish had significantly lower body mass.

Salusiwe has been collaborating with the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) to advance her project.

“Being a part of a group that goes to represent South Africa in the Regeneron ISEF in the United States means that I get to be a part of something that is so significant, and I get to inspire other kids in my school and community. It is a dream come true for me and something to give pride to my country, family and school,” she said.

“I also think that it is important that people are knowledgeable about my project because parasitism is an important driver in biological communities, and being aware of its rules and impact in ecology can help us understand better and possibly mitigate any foreseeable dangers in the fish population dynamics and ecosystem. So, I am very excited to be part of this very small group and hope to represent my country to the best that I can.” 

Luhlaza High School principal Mutile Qezo, and the school staff expressed immense pride in Salusiwe's accomplishments, emphasising how her achievements reflect the potential of learners from low-income areas.

“We believe that she is destined for greater heights,” Qezo said.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele said the Regeneron ISEF is a highly competitive science fair, renowned for showcasing cutting-edge projects.

“The inclusion of South African learners highlights the international caliber of local research. Eskom wishes the four participants the very best as they compete against top young scientists from around the world.”

Cape Times