In celebration of the first-ever International Women in Mathematics Day, AIMS South Africa held a roundtable discussion to celebrate women in mathematics, ahead of the day on Saturday, May 11.

The discussion was aimed at celebrating women’s achievements in the field of mathematics. It attracted emerging young women mathematics researchers at AIMS South Africa, who came to inspire and motivate each other. The discussion provided a platform for them to engage, reflect, and share their passion for mathematics with their fellow women mathematicians.

International Women in Mathematics Day is celebrated on May 12, in honour of the birthday of late acclaimed Iranian mathematician, Maryam Mirzakhani. Maryam Mirzakhani was the first and only woman to win the prestigious Fields Medal, which is considered the highest honour in mathematics.

The roundtable discussion was organised by AIMS Women in STEM (AIMSWIS) in collaboration with the African Women in Mathematics Association (AWMA). The event was coordinated by Dr Milaine Sergine Seuneu Tchamga, a postdoctoral researcher at AIMS South Africa and AWMA communications officer.