A future scientist with heart
When Michael Masser and
Linda Creed penned the iconic line “ I believe that children are the future ” for the song “ Greatest love of all ”, they surely had someone like Thea Earnest in mind . At 19 years old , she has been to Antarctica through PPS ’ s Matrics in Antarctica , excelled academically during a global pandemic and made history by being the first first-year recipient of the PPS bursary historically reserved only for second-year students . This youngster is without a doubt a woman of the future .
Hailing from Verulam , KwaZulu- Natal , Thea describes herself as a clown but also as someone eager to get down to it and change the world .
“ I want to see change happen in the most inclusive , progressive way possible and in a way that does not prompt regression ,” she says .
This desire is evidenced in her choice of tertiary degree : Geospatial Science – a discipline that focuses on using information technology to understand the processes of the earth and its people . It is the meeting point of technology , anthropology and geography .
“ I have always known that I wanted a degree in science . My experience in Antarctica helped me find my place within STEM ( science , technology , engineering and mathematics ).”
She fell in love with Wits University in grade 11 . However , funding was a concern . As the universe would have it , she need not have worried . Thea made a favourable impression on renowned explorer , Riaan Manser , who headed the expedition to Antarctica . He was so impressed with the youngster that he conspired behind her back , along with her father , to secure a bursary with PPS .
“ I had seen PPS ads throughout my application for Matrics in Antarctica and I knew that they were a sponsor . However , when this surprise was revealed … I cannot describe that feeling . It is a very special memory ,” says Thea emotionally .
So far , due to COVID-19 regulations , her first semester was online but she will soon make the trek to Johannesburg for a taste of “ real ” ’ varsity life .
“ University is hard . I kind of expected it to be similar to high school but it is not . Like everything else , I see it as a challenge and I am excited . I cannot wait to meet new people that come from all walks of life ,” she continues .
Aside from learning , she enjoys playing the guitar , reading to exercise her imagination and since last year , has added travel and exploring ( in Mzansi for now ) as her interests .
She credits her father , mother and sister for getting this far . “ My family taught me that I am powerful and I can achieve anything . That is why I believe in my passion and pursuits , but also in putting action to my words . All these collective moments were not a coincidence but a manifestation of blessings . I am grateful .”
Ayakha Melithafa , Kelby Barker , Boiketlo Lamula , Cobus Burger and Thea Earnest keeping the PPS flag high on Antarctica .
Credit : Matrics in Antarctica
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