Writer: Zinhle Dlamini
Pictures: Supplied
Ntyam Minko, a rising star in African science
At just 18 years old, Ntyam Minko has already amassed achievements that far exceed her age. A trailblazer and visionary, she is one of seven Young Scientists for Africa (YoSA) scholars chosen to represent their countries at the prestigious London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF).
“I am the first Cameroonian in 66 years to be awarded a full scholarship to attend the programme, joining about 500 students from 92 countries worldwide,” Minko proudly says.
Held annually in July, LIYSF is a 15-day STEM summer camp for students aged 16 to 21, designed to spark discussion on global challenges and scientific breakthroughs.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. As a proud STEMinist, Minko mentors and inspires young girls to pursue careers in science and technology.
“I have successfully encouraged more than 350 girls to take bold steps into STEM fields, particularly in computer science,” she says.
She believes that integrating STEM into the Cameroonian education system would create a more dynamic, skills-driven curriculum.
“Incorporating more practical, hands-on opportunities will equip students with the tools they need to thrive globally,” she adds.
Beyond LIYSF, Minko is also one of 50 students nominated for the Global Student Prize (GSP)—an award that recognises exceptional learners making a lasting impact on education and society. The winner receives $100 000.
“If I win, I will invest in large-scale production of GPS gadgets to improve passenger safety in public transport,” she explains.
Her nomination is the culmination of years of advocacy in education, youth empowerment and philanthropy.
Ntyam Minko empowering students through the gift of stationary
Through the GiHon Foundation, which she founded two years ago, Minko has donated clothes, food and stationery to disadvantaged communities.
“I know how it feels to grow up with limited resources. I just want to make a difference in someone else’s life,” she says.
She also founded RENAI: African Rebirth to Global Horizons, a non-profit organisation that equips African students with tools, networks and opportunities to amplify their impact internationally.
Ntyam Minko empowering future leaders
RENAI already operates in 10 African countries—including Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, Egypt, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Angola—with a bold vision: to empower 10 000 students by 2035.
Her commitment doesn’t stop there. Minko has worked with UNICEF, teaching photography to underprivileged children, and with PENASED, organising football games and cultural events to help socially integrate displaced persons.
Beyond Cameroon, Minko believes expanding STEM programmes across Africa can build a skilled workforce to drive industrialisation and development on the continent.
An academic high-achiever and multi-award winner, Minko envisions a future in software engineering, where she plans to build one of the biggest tech startups in Africa’s transport industry.