Dr Yolandi Schoeman, a postdoctoral fellow in the Centre for Environmental Management (CEM) at the University of the Free State (UFS), represented South Africa at the recently concluded 2023 World Women Scientists Conference in China.

She was part of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professionals (SACNASP) delegation at this global event, which was made possible through a collaboration between SACNASP, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), and the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST). She was also invited to participate in a panel discussion on science and the future of women in science.

Dr Schoeman, a distinguished scientist and ecological engineer in South Africa, said it is an honour to have received the invitation to represent South Africa at the conference. The event, co-sponsored by CAST and the People's Government of Zhejiang Province, took place from 13 to 15 October 2023 in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, China.

Foster international collaborations and partnerships

“It was a great experience to represent South Africa at the 2023 World Women Scientists Conference,” Dr Schoeman said. “It's a tremendous privilege to be part of such a prestigious global event and to have the opportunity to showcase South Africa's contributions to the field of science on an international stage.

“I had hopes for this conference which were multifaceted. I hoped to foster international collaborations and partnerships with fellow women scientists from around the world. These collaborations between China and the University of the Free State, including the Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa, can lead to groundbreaking research, shared knowledge, and innovative solutions to some of our planet's most pressing challenges.”

She said she would like to think she achieved what she set out to, and realised her hopes of establishing important international networks for future collaboration between the UFS and China, especially related to addressing sustainability challenges in Africa. 

With the overarching theme of "Openness, Trust, Innovation, and Development”, the conference focused on fostering a global community with a shared future for humanity, and advancing the goals of sustainable development. 

Importance of conference for women scientists 

According to Dr Schoeman, the importance of this conference for women scientists cannot be overstated. “It provides a unique platform for women scientists to showcase their achievements, share their experiences, and build networks with peers and mentors from diverse backgrounds,” she said. 

“The conference is a powerful avenue to address gender disparities in science and promote inclusivity, ultimately paving the way for more women to confidently pursue and excel in STEM fields. I aimed to contribute my insights and expertise to discussions on advancing science, technology, and innovation. 

“I looked forward to learning from the experiences and accomplishments of other women scientists, gaining new perspectives and ideas that can be applied in my own work. Overall, my goal was to return from the conference with enhanced knowledge and a broader network to make a positive impact in the field of science, both in South Africa representing the UFS and on a global scale.”

Alliance of World Women Scientists

Dr Schoeman, who works closely with Prof Paul Oberholster, Director of the CEM and an expert in wastewater treatment, was also invited to participate in the launch of the Alliance of World Women Scientists. This alliance, which was launched during the conference, seeks to bring together women scientists from across the globe, along with academic institutions and organisations representing them.