I learned so much, both in and out of my career and interest. Apart from computer science, I developed interest in crime science l am looking forward to combine the two in the future in my profession. I also gained life skills, how to interact with people.

The knowledge I gained and the connections I made will be enduring sources of inspiration as I pursue a future in science. Representing my country on this global stage reminded me that Mauritius, despite its small size, is an integral part of the global scientific community. This moment encouraged me to embrace the role of a representative, not just for myself but for my country, and to carry forward what I learned back home.

Thank you YoSA, for not only believing that African students deserve to be part of the scientific endevour, and making everything possible. But also for assuring me that science is where I belong, where I will always be.

LIYSF taught me to take charge of my learning and my future.  It deepened my pride in my country and strengthened my resolve to help address the challenges we face as a nation.

Though the pleasures of self-discovery (at LIYSF) were quite profound, there was more joy that came in belonging, being part of a team and to be intertwined with like-minded individuals. We shared stories about our home countries, traditions and scientific endeavours.

My time in London had an effect that went beyond the forum itself. I learnt that real development and advancement can only occur when people unite, accept one another’s differences and collaborate to achieve a common objective.

These lectures highlighted my interest in being part of the world of bio/biomedical engineering. I saw concepts I had learned in class applied at a highly advanced level that could directly influence the health and well-being of others.

I was exposed to a lot of different lectures throughout the programme which allowed me to learn a a lot about topics that were previously unknown to me. Being able to go to LIYSF through YOSA was an amazing opportunity for me to explore more of my interests as scientist and meet amazing people that will continue to be a part of my life for a long time.

“The Science Bazaar was extraordinary. It complimented this year’s theme ‘Science for Unity’ because it gathered brilliant young minds from eighty-four different countries who had projects that were focused on solving some of the world’s most notorious problems.”

“I enjoyed conversing and forming networks with well accomplished people who were well-versed when it came to offering socio-economic advice as a person of colour stepping into the global ranks, scientific advice in my future endeavors, and even how to take advantage of every last drop of the resources available to me.”

“I have now made long-term friendships with many people from around the world which is a great opportunity for the future where one day we will meet again and share many ideas that could prove to be life-changing because we are the scientists and leaders of tomorrow.”

“LIYSF event may be over but the motivation with it goes beyond. With the inspiration, I have become a mentor to young individuals with a keen interest in science. I have since taken part in mentorship programme within the my home university and influenced students to join Science competitions in Kenya.”

“The London International Youth Science Forum was the best thing that ever happened to me. Building relationships with other students from all over the world and learning about their cultures, traditions and learning systems of their countries was the best thing in this Forum and this really supported this year’s LIYSF theme, “SCIENCE FOR UNITY”. The best part is that I have now discovered my career path and I am willing to work hard for it.”

“My experience at LIYSF was amazing, it has helped me learn a lot, exposed me to a range of different scientific opportunities and different careers in science, broadened my knowledge of Science and STEM as a whole, and encouraged and motivated me to be a better and brighter version of myself, and to be a Scientist who will one day make a difference in the world. It has exposed me to people of different cultures and helped me make new lifelong friends from all around the world, and at the same time, it has given me a platform to share and exchange my knowledge, ideas and opinions about science which has greatly boosted my confidence and self-esteem.”

“In conclusion I would say that the London International Youth Science Forum was the best online event I have ever been part of. It was evident that there is an impact that science has and is having in the whole world, and that this science train is being pushed by students from all across the world which is very encouraging to me.”

The lectures expanded our horizons and give us a better look into various scientific fields which will enable us to decide which career is best for us.

“I enjoyed every moment of it, made a lot of connections in the fraternity, great friends from different parts of the world and reminded myself of the potential I know I have. I met very influential students, lecturers, professors, and practitioners who opened my eyes to the world of science on a very personal level”

“The lecturers’ passion and enthusiasm for their different subjects inspired me to continue on my quest helping poor communities in my country with science. I am more confident and determined to apply what I have learnt from them and many others on doing what I love“

“I felt like an Insider in the scientific world– privy to the thoughts of well renowned scientists and the passion with which every speaker talked about their research ignited something in me. A flame that I hope will show when my turn comes to get up on that stage and speak about work of my own“

“These have been the best two weeks of my life. They were full of love, fun and knowledge. I had made friends from different parts of the world including, Tanzania, my neighboring country. I believe that these friendship bonds formed will last a lifetime and serve as a stepping stone in making the world a better place.”

“The two weeks were of so much benefit to me including forming long lasting connections with other scientists from all over the world and sharing our ideas with them besides forming friendship bonds, interacting with world’s best scientists who gave us powerful lectures and visiting world’s biggest ,modern scientific institutions”

“I learnt many things about cultures from different students and shared many ideas about our career goals and how to make STEM education more useful in our society“

“As a YoSA student I was able to show that that Africa has scientists who are eager and diligent to bring positive changes and solutions through science.”

“This forum made me understand fully that with science you can create solutions that will benefit your loved ones and the society as a whole. This was a perfect representation of this year’s forum theme ‘Science for Society’. To me this forum was like a handbook, a manual that had the information I was looking for a long time: it was a ‘yes you can’ book.”

“The experience has shown me that there is nothing I can’t do in life and, through science, I can change the world”

“Being a YoSA Ambassador, I have helped encourage several youths from my country to work hard in school and in STEM subjects.”

“Before, I was unable to speak in front of people but now I do so with confidence and joy. I presented to a crowd of over 2500 students about my LIYSF experience.”

“LIYSF can benefit African science as I believe that all the students that attend the forum are the thinkers of today and will be the driving force behind moving science forward in the future, which Africa greatly needs.”

“From the knowledge LIYSF has imparted to me I will educate and improve Africans life through the scientific innovations. Science creates opportunities for people to make the world a better place. 
LIYSF has given me an opportunity to learn more about science and technology and to contribute to its achievements. By incorporating all the ideas and knowledge that LIYSF has given me. I want to find solutions to various problems we are facing today including health and energy conservation.”

“I definitely want to take part in revolutionising the way we teach in order to give everyone an equal opportunity to understand science. LIYSF has inspired me to strongly advocate for young scientists to participate in events and activities that build their communication skills as they are a stepping stone to becoming ambassadors of STEM. I am motivated towards unleashing Zimbabwe’s and Africa’s potential. LIYSF taught me that science for the future is not just about having knowledge but it’s about community, collaboration and communication – it’s about sharing ideas and information to solve the world’s problems.”

“Now I believe I can proudly say that I am a universal scientist who is capable of solving world problems. Coming from Africa and especially Kenya where most people do not take the STEM path, I can convince a few, if not a multitude that on the other side of science opportunities lie in wait.”

“Presenting my robotics project at the Science Bazaar gave me a platform to optimise international opportunities. LIYSF has transformed my life – I have learnt many new ideas that will impact my society. Some people may think Africa is not passionate about science but the good representation of young African scientists at LIYSF reveals that Africa has scientists who are eager and diligent to bring positive change and solutions through science.”