Anina Nel: Passion for science fuels lifelong commitment to mentorship.

Anina Nel. (Image Supplied)

“Right now, it is silkworm season, so silkworms are in the class. Learners love seeing and experiencing the subject. That is how they remem-ber.”

“Science is never static,” says Anina Nel, a dedicated teacher at St Andrew’s School in Welkom. With over 30 years of experience, she has brought Biology to life in the classroom while mentoring other teachers and young scientists.

“Biology is such a broad field. There is always new discoveries to explore or be curious about,” she explains. “That is what drew me to science in the first place.”

Anina has been part of the ESKOM Expo for Young Scientists since 1994, taking on various roles with the Welkom Expo committee and later judging at all levels. In 2014, she became the Regional Science Fair Director.

Her learners often excel in the Expo. “They must start their projects early, and I follow up weekly, encouraging them to find a mentor who specializes in their topic. It is a team effort, with many passionate mentors in Welkom contributing to their success,” she says.

In her classroom, she prioritizes hands-on, engaging learning methods - using clay, practical lessons, and tech platforms to enhance education.

She takes great pride in seeing her learners reach their full potential. One such learner is Dr. Bronwyn Gavine, a 2009 matriculant, who earned a doctorate (PhD) in Clinical Neurosciences at the prestigious Oxford University. She is now an anaesthetics and critical care doctor, undertaking specialty training in England.

Anina, who matriculated at Welkom-Gimnasium and completed a BSc and Honours in Ecology at the University of the Free State, is known for mentoring other teachers. “I had inspiring mentors, and mentoring others is my way of giving back,” she says. “Empowering others is a value I learned early on - sharing is caring,” she says humbly.