South African teacher Nadine Smith has been awarded internationally for her efforts in STEM education. One of four global recipients, the educator was the sole African awardee.
Global (27 May 2025) — South African teacher Nadine Smith is a Coding and Robotics educator who recently made the local STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) field enormously proud when she was honoured with a prestigious award. Nadine was awarded the 025 EDGE in Tech Athena Award for Early Career Leadership!
Awarded by the Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society and the Banatao Institute (CITRIS) at the University of California, Nadine was honoured as part of a unique ceremony at UC Berkeley.
The South African teacher was the only recipient from Africa and one of just four global recipients of the award.
Nadine’s accolade celebrates individuals who are leading the charge in creating technology ecosystems that are more diverse, equitable and impactful.
“I believe every child deserves to see themselves in STEAM,” Nadine says. STEAM encompasses STEM fields but with the addition of art.
“Through coding and robotics, I strive to ignite confidence, curiosity, and creativity in learners, especially those who don’t yet realise they belong in tech. This award is not just a personal milestone, but a reminder of the importance of creating inclusive learning spaces where all young minds can dream, build and lead,” she says.
Beyond leading initiatives, Nadine also trains fellow teachers in integrating emerging technologies.
“It is incredibly important to recognise the people doing the difficult work of expanding access to essential tech fields,” explains Jill Finlayson, the Managing Director of the CITRIS Innovation Hub (which oversees the awards).
“Those who champion on-ramps into STEM, fair workplaces and welcoming cultures are critical to the development of innovative technologies and help ensure that new solutions will work well for everyone.”
by 