Careers in

mathematics
1
 CAREERS IN MATHEMATICS
5th edition

Published by:
South African Mathematics Foundation
Private Bag X173, Pretoria, 0001
Tel: +27 (0)12 392 9372
Website: www.samf.ac.za
© SAMF, Pretoria 2020
ISBN: 978-1-920080-52-5

Writers:
Camilla Pennington, Samantha Drysdale
(South African Graduate Employers Association)

Project Coordinators:
Ellie Olivier and Angeline Mashaba
(South African Mathematics Foundation)
Jeremy Beukes (South African Graduate Employers
Association)

Proofreading:
Marisa Louw (South African Mathematics Foundation)

Designers:
Pamela Bosworth (Atomic Design)
Graeme Bosworth (Atomic Design)
www.atomic.co.za

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 FOREWORD
Gateways and Options…
What does quantum physics have in common with DNA, or
with the Manhattan project for building the nuclear bomb?
What do these have in common with fractional dimension or
with Monte Carlo simulations? Or with computing, quantum
logic, mathematical economics, game theory or statistics……?
Perhaps I should have rather asked “who” they have in
common, rather than “what”.
John von Neumann, like Alan Turing, who became well known
More than ever, South Africa needs more graduates with an
ability to solve complex problems – critical thinkers who are
in a position to support us in resolving long standing issues
of health, climate, technological and social inequalities.
Young people who have the ability to synthesise information,
extract trends and guide our public and private sector
colleagues in building solutions that have far reaching impact
on every South African citizen.
South Africa needs you to bring your passion to the table and
consider studying one of the many higher education options
for his role in deciphering the decoding of the Enigma coding available in Medicine, Engineering, Mathematical, Computer or
machine in the end of World War II, has been involved in Business Science.
every single field mentioned above. He was a mathematician
This is where gateway comes in – if you love mathematics, this
in the first half of the 20th century, who not only made
is the entry point you need for success.
substantial contributions all the areas mentioned, but also in
many others that affect the way we live and the way we There are so many ways you can contribute – and that is
understand the world around us today. Climate change? Yes! where options come in. If you have a view on exactly what
Investments? Yes! Nano medicines? Yes! Economics? Yes! Your you are interested in – you are so fortunate. But if you don’t,
computer? Yes! Your cellphone? Yes! you cannot go wrong with seeking out a degree that has a
combination of mathematics, statistics and perhaps
If you understood the technical terms above and knew
something else that you may be interested in – be it
without the aid of Google or Wikipedia who Von Neumann and
psychology, economics, computer science and the many other
Turing were, the chances are that you already have a certain
offerings available in our wonderful institutions. We mention
level of passion for mathematics. Mathematicians like John
a few possible options:
von Neumann showed us how mathematics touches on so
much of what we take for granted in everyday life. Every Risk Analyst:
aspect of our modern life is touched by mathematics in some Mathematics is widely used in the financial field.
way or form. In most fields, mathematics forms the Mathematicians build models to help explain and predict the
foundation of that field and for young bright minds, many of behavior of financial markets in order to minimise a
these fields offer opportunities to study, to work and to companies’ exposure to financial risk.
develop. Today, like never before, there are endless
opportunities to combine an affection for mathematics with
real skills and exciting work opportunities.

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 Academic: financial activity, as well as driving profitability and making
the business future fit.
A career in teaching mathematics at university or school is
ideal for someone who really loves the subject of Actuary:
mathematics. A university professor teaches mathematics and
Actuaries assemble and analyse statistics to calculate
does research, developing new mathematics. Mathematics
probabilities of death, illness, injury, unemployment,
teachers introduce primary or secondary school learners to
retirement and property loss and design insurance which is
the power and beauty of mathematics. There is a national
maintained on a sound financial basis. Actuarial studies are
shortage of teachers and university academics in all the
quite challenging. Following a three or four-year degree at a
mathematical sciences (mathematics, mathematical statistics
university, you conclude your studies part time over a period
and computer science), so employment opportunities are
of years through a professional body such as the Actuarial
plentiful.
Society of South Africa, while working at an insurance
Statistician: company.
The use of statistics has become widespread in almost every Astronomer/cosmologist:
area of human endeavor in the 21st century. Statisticians are in
Have you ever looked up at the sky at night and wondered
high demand. Statisticians design experiments and surveys,
where the stars come from? Or how big the universe is?
such as opinion polls, to predict patterns of behavior of large
Cosmology is the study of the structure of the universe and
groups based on relatively small samples, analysing the
how it changed over time. The theory used to describe the
resulting data mathematically. In this analysis they make
universe depend on mathematical models and equations that
extensive use of probability theory, a branch of mathematics.
are improved as our understanding of the physical universe
Data Analyst: increases. South Africa is at the forefront of cosmology in
As a data analyst, you analyse data using mathematical Data Mining:
modelling techniques to generate reports and visualizations
This is arguably is the fastest growing current field where
that provide insights into what the data is ‘hiding’, as well as
mathematics plays an enormous role. How to find data and
to inform an organisation’s decisions and to solve problems
especially how to convert this data into useful information for
in financial markets.
governments, and business, is a Pandora’s Box of
Data Architect/Engineer: opportunities for people with mathematical ability and skills.
A data engineer designs, constructs, implements, tests and
maintains the technology that creates the infrastructure to
make good data available for informing an organisation’s

4 5
 Other areas include:
• Software Architects
• Computer Security Specialists
• Aeronautical Engineers
• Bio-mathematics and Bio-statisticians
• Every engineering fields
In this booklet, we will highlight some of these fields to
hopefully trigger some excitement in you. If you are struggling
to decide between one or another field, rest assured. John
von Neumann even developed game theory, which involves
the mathematical study of making proper decisions between
two options!
Choosing to study for a mathematics related career is the
gateway that will always leave you with many options!
Several of our South African Universities offer degrees in
these fields or any other combination that will address your
own unique interests and passions. Consistently, our
universities rate in the top 5% tertiary institutions globally, so
regardless of where you go and what field you select, you will
be well served in preparing for an exciting and rewarding
career in mathematics!

Prof Kerstin Jordaan Cathy Sims

Executive Director Executive Director
South African Mathematics South African Graduate
Foundation (SAMF) Employers Association
(SAGEA)

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 CONTENTS
01 Angela Henry, IT Security Specialist PAGE 10

02 Clive Sakhile Mkhize, Mathematics Teacher PAGE 12

03 Dr Dephney Mathebula, Mathematics Lecturer PAGE 14

04 Dr Michelle Lochner, Astronomer PAGE 18

05 Dr Humphrey Brydon, Statistics Lecturer PAGE 22

06 Natasha Anderson, Software Engineer PAGE 24

07 Nina Hiralal, Data Engineer PAGE 28

08 Sphiwe Muthembi, Data Analyst Trainee PAGE 30

09 Theo Mokgatlhe, Actuary PAGE 32

10 Thloni Mhango, Risk Analyst PAGE 34

11 Prof Francois Engelbrecht, Climatologist PAGE 38

12 Puseletso Maseko, Aeronautical Engineer PAGE 40

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 is ever the same, and that’s why I love my job so much. Most
IT Security Specialist days, I spend time giving advice on various Information
Security issues to those in my team, as well as talking through
current initiatives and plans for the future. I do much work
You may
Angela henry assume that
with Governance Committees and Forums; brainstorming on
best ways to improve the security posture of the bank. I also
as an IT work closely with auditors, giving them evidence of controls
Security that are in place and working, such as the approval of access
Specialist for requests. I also spend much time investigating breaches and
a big bank, I potential misconduct and then reporting on those incidents.
would have a
variety of In terms of keeping up to date with developments and trends
university qualifications under my in the industry, I belong to several industry forums and spend
belt. The reality is that I did not focused time on my continued learning; it is a requirement
attend university! I do, however, with many of my qualifications that I undertake at least 20
hold several qualifications in the IT hours of further learning each year for my accreditation to
and Security field, and I have always remain active. I also enjoy engaging with experts in my field,
been passionate about continuing both internally and externally, and that helps to keep my
my learning journey in this space. knowledge current.

While I believe that I chose a career The thing I enjoy most about my job is that every day is
in Information Technology, I think different and challenging in its own way - and that I can add
my progression into Information real value to my organisation. On the flip side, my biggest
Security chose me. I have always challenge is the reality that this is a male-dominated industry
had an excellent moral compass, and as a woman I have to prove my expertise and knowledge
and believe strongly in doing the continually.
right thing, for the right reasons, for
the good of the organisation and Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and
those within it - and that’s why I am friends. I read a lot, and have a passion for cooking. When I
passionate about this career. can, I love spending time in the bush, visiting game reserves
as often as I can.
The truth about a role in
Information Security is that no day

10 11
 the same time. I teach mathematics from Grade 8 to Grade 12,
Mathematics Teacher and also do extra lessons with my students as well as the
broader community via my Facebook Page (CSM Mathematics)
and a WhatsApp group. My intent with these forums is to
Mathematics explain concepts, as well as offering alternative solutions to
Clive Sakhile
is the future. questions and problems. While I spend most of my days (and
It is why I evenings) teaching mathematics, I wouldn’t change it for
chose a anything - I believe this is the only way for me to further
career in learn, develop my skills in the subject and inspire others
helping and along the way.
educating
others – I
Mkhize
Outside of work, I enjoy playing chess as I believe that
can change a lot of students’ lives mathematics and chess go hand in hand – requiring you to
using numbers and inspiring them think, strategise and problem-solve before you can find
to pursue a career in mathematics answers. I am a very active person - I believe in being
and related fields. mentally and physically fit. And lastly, I am a family man who
enjoys spending time with his family.
I grew up in a small town called
Illovo in Durban, and obtained an A
in mathematics in matric, so I knew
I wanted to pursue a career dealing
with numbers. I graduated with a
BSc (Honours) in Mathematics and
Statistics from the University of
Kwa-Zulu Natal (UKZN), and then
went on to study a PGCE in
Mathematics and qualified as a
professional mathematics teacher. I
am currently finishing my Masters in
Statistics, also at UKZN.

My day to day life tends to be

hectic, but fun and challenging at

12 13
 My good fortune continued through to high school where, again, I
Mathematics Lecturer had inspirational mathematics, biology, and physical science
teachers. These experiences laid a firm foundation for my resolve to
build a career using mathematics.
If ever there
were a story That said, I certainly did encounter setbacks. I registered to write
about the
Dr Dephney
Mathebula Standard Grade mathematics for my final matric examination only
convergence to find that through an error I was given the wrong paper and
of passion, wound up writing the Higher Grade exam which I failed, despite
perseverance passing all my other matric subjects. Casting aside my shame at
and problem- failing and with the encouragement and support of my family, I
solving, then repeated my matric year, this time, passing mathematics on
this is it. Dr Mathebula is a shining Standard Grade.
example of someone who, despite the
odds, has made an outstanding and I then registered for a BSc in Mathematics and Computer Science at
rewarding career based on the University of Venda. Having never switched on a computer or
mathematics. Her story is inspiring and seen, let alone used a mouse before, I was at a huge disadvantage
motivating. trying to learn to program and did not do well in this first-year
course – though I did pass both the mathematics and statistics
My love for mathematics was born modules. In my second year, I switched degrees to a BSc in
whilst at Muyexe Primary School in Mathematics and Statistics. There were a few bumps in the road
Limpopo. I was fortunate to have whilst completing my undergraduate degree – I had no mentors,
brilliant mathematics teachers who failed a few courses along the way and encountered financial
displayed an innate sense of joy when difficulties. There were indeed times that I wanted to give up,
teaching us mathematics. however, my parents convinced me that I might be permanently
disadvantaged if I did not persevere. I graduated from the University
My older sister had also discovered a of Venda with a BSc degree in Mathematics and Statistics in 2008
talent for mathematics. When we did and went on to complete a BSc Honours in Mathematics.
homework together, her delight each
time she was able to solve a In my mind and the absence of meaningful career guidance, I had
mathematical equation or arrive at the always pictured me working as a Statistician for Statistics South
correct answer was infectious. Africa, but it was whilst doing my first BSc Honours in Mathematics
at the University of Venda in 2008 that the African Institute of

14 15
 Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) invited me to attend a workshop
entitled “The annual Clinic on Meaningful Modelling of
Epidemiological data (MMED)” where I learned about solving real-
Readyto go
life problems such as the spread of infectious diseases through the
application of mathematics. It opened my eyes to a far wider range where no
bank has
of career options with mathematics as a base. Realizing that
mathematics was the father of all STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics) careers, I continued with my studies
at Stellenbosch University, graduating with my BSc Honours in
Biomathematics in 2009 and MSc Degree in Biomathematics in 2012.

Returning home to Limpopo following my graduation, I began

gone before?
lecturing part-time in Mathematics and Statistics at the University of At FNB,you’llbe stepping into a whole new world of firsts.
Venda whilst simultaneously studying to be the first-ever South
C
Our unique, collaborative culture is a first. Ourgame-changing
African to obtain a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Venda
M
thinking is a first. Our ground-breaking technology and analytics,
Y

where I still lecture today on a full-time basis. as evidenced by our Global Data Anywhere Award for innovative
CM
optimisation, is a first. AsAfrica’s Coolest Bank,for the eighth
MY

Aside from my lecturing responsibilities, I attend and present at CY

year running, we’re making movesto build new solutions
international conferences and workshops and participate in CMY
that build a better future.
international research groups such as Modelling Health and K

Environmental Linkages Research Group (MHELRG) and Models of

infectious Disease Agent Study (MIDAS). I have presented research
output at international conferences in Spain, Dubai and the United
States of America. I am an active and empathetic mentor to my
students, not wanting them to make the same mistakes I made
along the way and sharing my career journey with them for
inspiration. I am also a member of the South African Women in
Mathematical Sciences Association (SAWMSA), have had research
articles published and I am a semi-finalist of the 2020 TechWomen Formore information, log onto the FNBCareerspage on:
programme. Somehow, I find quality time to spend with my family
and friends, listen to gospel music and sing in a gospel choir. www.fnb.co.za/careers

AdivisionofFirstRandBankLimited.An Authorised FinancialServicesand CreditProvider(NCRCP20).

16 17
 a career in this field, it was a defining moment in the journey I
Astronomer have since travelled.

I enjoyed Mathematics and Physics at school and took both

When you subjects for A-levels. I flirted with many different career options,
think not really having a clear sense of what I wanted to do – I decided
Dr Michelle
Cosmologist to enrol for a BSc majoring in Physics, Applied Mathematics and
you probably Computer Science which I completed at Rhodes University. During
picture my studies, I attended a talk about the Square Kilometre Array
Stephen
Lochner
(SKA), an international effort to build the world’s largest radio
Hawking. This telescope, with over a square kilometre (one million square
well-known metres) of collecting area. The fact that this was going to happen
expert sets the scene for meeting Dr in South Africa was the catalysts for my career. I approached the
Michelle Lochner – an Astronomer project team and enquired about internship opportunities –
who is a lecturer at the University of which I was most fortunate to be offered.
the Western Cape.
SKA later offered me a scholarship to continue my studies – I
“I have a distinct memory from when I joined the National Astrophysics and Space Science Programme
was about six years old, of my father (NASSP) which is a multi-institutional initiative between the
and me gazing up at the dark sky on a University of Cape Town (UCT), North-West University and the
clear African evening with the stars University of Kwa-Zulu Natal. As part of this programme, I
shining brightly back at us. He pointed completed my Honours in Astronomy and went on to do my
out the Pleiades, which is an open Masters which I later upgraded to a PhD, all through UCT. I
cluster of more than 800 stars located focused my research on the application of statistics in Astronomy
about 410 light-years from earth. I and Cosmology. Once qualified, I took up a post-doctoral
recall my fascination with the universe research position at University College London, where I spent two
beyond earth, the many questions years. I then returned to South Africa and worked as a researcher
that came to mind and the inquisitive for the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) and the
spark that lit up as I yearned to South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO). As of 2020, I
understand the universe and how it have joined the University of the Western Cape as a senior
works. Whilst this was not the “aha” lecturer, while maintaining a joint appointment with SARAO.
moment at which I decided to pursue

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 So, what does a career in this field look like and how do I spend a in writing journal articles, reading papers, and giving or attending
typical day? The quest of an Astronomer is to deepen our presentations. I have attended conferences or been on research
understanding of the universe, the space beyond our world. Much visits to New York, London, Paris, Sydney, and Geneva.
of what we do is data-driven, and I investigate techniques to
analyse terabytes of data using Artificial Intelligence and If you are considering a career in this field, I can assure you that it
statistical methods. Sometimes referred to as “blue skies science” is a great area to work in. Ideally, it would be best if you have a
and, contrary to the picture Hollywood paints of space passion for Mathematics and Science, enjoy problem-solving and
exploration, we do not often stumble upon discoveries like aliens be curious. South Africa’s government is investing in Astronomy,
or life on other planets. Instead, we improve our understanding of and our involvement in MeerKAT and SKA have resulted in growing
the universe. Astronomy is a field that has driven innovation – interest and opportunities for Astronomers. No day is the same
space travel being a primary example of this. CCDs in cameras, x- for me, and I am empowered to pursue aspects of research that
ray scanners at airports and GPS technology wouldn't have are of interest to me.
happened without astronomy.
There is a misconception that careers in the sciences do not pay –
South Africa has a significant competitive advantage when it I can assure you, however, that anyone graduating with a BSc in
comes to Astronomy. Our dark skies, wide-open spaces, and areas Physics will have many career options to choose from, Astronomy
where a lack of radio interference is protected by law, provide being but one of those. If you can learn to program (look on the
ideal conditions for both SKA and MeerKAT. The MeerKAT radio internet, there are lots of resources to teach yourself and it is
telescope, situated 90 km outside the small Northern Cape town enjoyable), can think and question or analyse large sets of data,
of Carnarvon, is a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) you will have fun and, probably be employable.
telescope and will be integrated into the mid-frequency
component of SKA Phase 1. MeerKAT has been designed, Work-life balance is essential to me, so I do not spend all day in
engineered and built in South Africa to be at the cutting edge of front of a computer screen. I play the piano and enjoy socialising
the advancement of the human species. Much of the work that I – gaming is also a hobby (more screentime). In 2017 I founded the
do entails working with data obtained from MeerKAT, and I am Supernova Foundation – an international mentoring programme
excited to be part of an incredible and ambitious international for women in Physics. Today we have around 70 mentors who
project. work with more than 180 mentees in different countries. We
connect senior women in Physics with women students for
A typical day will involve working on programming and scientific personal mentoring, run quarterly webinars, and help our
investigation. I have, in collaboration with colleagues, developed mentees with everything from selecting PhD research topics to
an algorithm that quickly detects anomalies in vast sets of data. career options and dealing with issues in the workplace.
Astronomy is a collaborative field, so I attend regular meetings
and work with colleagues all around the world. I am also involved

20 21
 previous movies that a user has watched, taking into account the
Statistics Lecturer genre, and so on. of the film.

While I did not necessarily seek out becoming an academic, it is

I chose something that came naturally to me. While I was completing my MSc
Mathematics degree at UWC, the opportunity arose for me to join the Statistics
and Statistics and Population Studies department and I remember thinking, “well
as my career, why not?” and I couldn’t think of a better career path for myself.
Humphrey
as it’s the one
field of study My research interests are in the areas of big data analytics and the
that allows me application of statistical learning methodologies. The fields of
Brydon
to apply my Mathematics and Statistics are gaining more attention and becoming
knowledge to increasingly prevalent with the advent of the 4th Industrial
a broad range of applications. The Revolution, and as businesses start to realise the value in the
methodologies of these two interrelated application of various methodologies of these fields. A lot of the
fields are applicable in most, if not all knowledge I have originates from my student years, but - as with any
sectors and, therefore I am not limited specialisation - I need to keep up with the latest developments,
in my research fields as an academic. methodologies and their application.

My journey to becoming a lecturer was To keep up with the latest trends, I read a lot of articles and
not as straightforward as it would seem. conference proceedings. I also try to attend a minimum of one local
I started my academic studies in and one international conference rooted in Statistics every year. By
Computer Science, and during my 2nd attending these conferences, I keep abreast of what fellow
year I decided to switch to Mathematics researchers in the field are focussing their minds on and gain insight
and Statistics – a decision I have never into what the next ‘big thing’ might be.
regretted. I have now gone on to
complete my PhD in Statistics, and my As an academic, my day is divided between lectures and
current research is on the topic of consultations with students or staff. I spend the rest of my time
Factorisation Machines. Recommender working on research projects either as part of a team or individually.
Systems use Factorisation Machines My greatest joy is witnessing students enjoying what they are
where data is sparse but contains many studying but also, and more importantly, seeing them excited when
observations and features (these can they are working and enjoying applying their knowledge and skillsets
sometimes range into the millions). For at work.
example, Netflix uses a Recommender
System to suggest movies based on The job of an academic is demanding, so whatever spare time I have,
I spend socialising with my family and friends.

22 23
 additional qualifications related to my field in software
Software Engineer engineering. Despite traditionally gaining my qualifications, I
truly value and support online learning which has progressed
so much over the last few years. Now, in this digital age,
I come from there’s an abundance of options including Udemy, Coursera,
humble and LinkedIn Learning. My degree has allowed me to open
beginnings. doors to various work opportunities, my ability to perform,
Growing up and quickly solve problems in an ever-changing technological
Anderson
in landscape.
Chatsworth,
Natasha

KZN, I looked As the practice lead for Software Engineering at Standard

around me Bank, I am responsible for ensuring modern engineering
and knew I wanted to do more in practices are embedded and adopted across the organisation.
my life and achieve what seemed I lead a team of technical coaches, and together we train,
unachievable. I was never a develop, and coach teams on practices related to Continuous
straight-A student, nor a Integration, Continuous Deployment, Continuous Testing and
spectacular athlete, but that didn’t Monitoring. Essentially, we help teams get better at and
mean I didn’t try. In the classroom, I excited about Software Engineering. I love my job because I
was desperate to achieve that A – get to challenge the status quo, I get to experiment, and I get
but it wasn’t easy to get there until I to connect with like-minded engineers across the group. I am
came across Computer Science. a firm believer in continuous learning. My best insight comes
Perhaps it was all the time I spent from connecting with people and listening to their journeys
playing Mario Brothers and other TV and stories.
games, but for some reason
everything that I learned just made What I love most about my job is that I get to connect with
sense – it came effortlessly. I was people, I get to learn, and challenged to grow. Highlights
around 12 years old when I wrote include setting up high performing teams and developing a
my first lines of code in basic, and I dashboard that pulls in insights from across the CI/CD
was hooked – that was it for me. Pipeline. We essentially took a Gartner report, leveraged open
source code, and made that report practical and easy to
I completed a Bachelor of Science consume. In terms of challenges, I work in a male-dominated
Degree at the University of KwaZulu- industry where the real growth is not just about doing a good
Natal. Since then, I have obtained job. It’s about partnering and creating a network, continuously

24 25
 learning, and using every opportunity to grow people. I am
The world of work also a mother of two young boys, and I feel it is my duty to
www.quantifyyourfuture.co.za is full of new and ensure they feel empowered, but at the same time fuel a fire
emerging career
opportunities for people
for hard work and dedication. I want them to understand who
studying Science, they are and the privilege of the democracy they were born
Technology, into.
Engineering or
Mathematics
Outside of work, I love being outdoors, and we love taking
time out on 4x4 trails - getting dusty and muddy. My other
#QuantifyYourFuture is the go to
hobbies include watching any supernatural or Sci-Fi movies –
place for information on: I am a huge Harry Potter fan.

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26 27
 problems almost every day, which allows me to learn and grow
Data Engineer continuously.

A typical day for me is one filled with fun, and - as one might expect
I have always - a lot of brain work. I developed most of my problem solving and
had a passion analytical skills throughout my university career - studying a
for mathematical and statistical degree trained my brain to think in a
Nina Hiralal
mathematics. certain way, and I find myself looking for patterns and identifying
For me, it is trends regularly. Part of my job is to build new models that involve a
not only about lot of new theories and methodologies (machine learning and
learning the Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a growing science), and this allows me to
theories, but conduct research and continuously gain knowledge. While my work
also developing problem-solving and is challenging, I work in a great team that’s willing to help whenever
critical thinking skills which can be needed – they are like a second family to me.
applied through all facets of life. I have
studied a BSc Mathematical Sciences I enjoy expanding my knowledge base, and by learning every day, I
degree with majors in Mathematics and feel myself growing as a person. The highlight of my career at FNB
Mathematical Statistics. I’ve completed thus far is the recognition I have received for the hard work I put
my honours in Mathematical Statistics, into my role – it’s a great motivation to keep going. It isn’t to say
and I’m currently pursuing my Masters there aren’t challenges. I have had to learn to accept things that are
in Mathematical Statistics. not in my control, for example, the dependency of a platform not
being able to execute specific tasks, or moving data from one
I joined the FNB Graduate Programme environment to another. Sometimes these processes don’t go as
in 2019, and later promoted to Data smoothly as one might expect, and you have to learn to take
Engineer within the Computer Vision setbacks in your stride.
and Analytics team. Our main focus is
on building analytical models using I spend my time outside the office researching and reading journal
computer vision and machine learning. articles about machine learning and AI and how it is being used in
I spend most of my day using the the world. It’s where my passion lies, and that’s why I love my job. I
available data to build models that also have a significant interest in medicine, and even though a lot of
business can use in their decision it grosses me out, I enjoy learning about the medical world. Lately,
processes. I’m challenged with new I’ve dedicated most of my free time to my studies and to spending
time with family and friends.

28 29
 learn SQL coding and how to work on databases, both of
Data Analyst Trainee which I enjoyed.

Since this initial project exposed me to many more facets of

I wanted to the business, including data integrity and quality, and I have
study the gained many new skills such as data modelling, machine
most learning and sentiment analysis. Through my broadened
challenging exposure to the business, I have also developed new soft
Muthembi
degree I skills.
could think
of so started A typical day starts at 8 am. Because I am on the graduate
Sphiwe

out doing programme, I meet with the other graduates, and we compare
Actuarial Science – but soon notes on how our work and projects are going. There is
gravitated towards Finance and muchcollaboration which helps us to learn from one another.
Coding so switched my UCT studies
to a BCom with Economics and Adjusting to the world of work means learning to balance
Finance. priorities – I spend four days of the week doing real work with
deliverables, with one day a week spent working on projects
Today, I am part of Sanlam’s Data with the other graduates. Both are challenging, interesting
Analytics Graduate Programme, and fun.
where I learn and grow my skills
daily. The program involves a series To keep pace with the learning curve, I watch a lot of tutorials
of rotations as well as a and YouTube clips, as well as doing a bit of forex trading in my
combination of real and project spare time. Keeping fit and active is key to my success and,
work. My first rotation was a lab being quite tall I am an adept basketball player. I am always
project for one of Sanlam’s sub- eager to challenge myself, using initiative to take on tasks in
clusters. I was responsible for my team, writing board exams (I have enrolled in writing an
producing dashboards which Actuarial board exam), to trying new and efficient ways of
connect the models my team were optimising the things I already know how to do such as
building with meaningful developing my very own trading algorithm.
information and data fed to the
client. Working on this project
introduced me to the opportunity to

30 31
 Deciding what to study at university was reasonably
Actuary straightforward, especially after the South African
Mathematics Team sponsor put out an advertisement
encouraging careers in Actuarial Science as a gateway to an
When exciting and diverse career. I embarked on a degree in
reflecting on Actuarial Science at the University of Cape Town, and upon
Mokgatlhe my learning completion of my degree I knew that a job as an Actuary was
and career for me. Being an Actuary is all about making financial sense
journey thus for the future, equipping people to make better-informed
far, it is clear decisions, and finding solutions to complex problems.
that
mathematics My current role has exposed me to a different side of a career
has guided the path to my as an Actuary. I am now in a client-facing position – so
Theo

achievements. While I was good at instead of sitting at my computer and analysing data - I
mathematics from a young age, it typically spend time with clients; discussing problems and
was only around Grade 7 that I working on solutions. I spend much time working on
realised my love of numbers and spreadsheets, reading and writing reports, and updating the
solving problems could take me executive team on how the business is doing. The great thing
places. My teachers had noticed my about my job is that no day is ever the same – there are
flair for problem-solving, and soon I always new problems and challenges for me to grapple with,
found myself involved in provincial and the skills I have developed over the years have helped
mathematics competitions – and me to have a measurable impact on our clients and their
winning them. I continued taking businesses.
part in contests in high school,
where I became part of the South As with all industries, it is crucial to keep my skills sharp and
African Mathematics Team between remain up-to-date with industry trends. It is imperitive in my
Grades 10 and 12. The sense of current role, engaging with clients, where often they look to
achievement from winning me to understand the “technical” side so that I can help them
competitions continued to drive my make better financial decisions. I do this by attending
passion and ultimately, my decision industry-focused conferences, seminars, and events, and I
to pursue a career in mathematics. also spent much time reading. CNBC and Bloomberg are two
of my favourite platforms to keep up to date with news and
trends in our industry. I think it is essential to focus on not

32 33
 being a specialist in only one area – we need to be able to
YOU HAVE TO BE ODD look at the broader picture too.
TO BE NUMBER ONE. - Dr. Seuss When I consider the highlight of my job, I would have to say
it’s the heartwarming feeling I get when the work I do for a
An actuary is a professional who applies analytical, statistical
and mathematical skills to financial and business problems. client has a positive impact on their business – and the
This is especially valuable when facing real-world problems gratitude they show for this. The biggest challenge of my job
WHAT DO that involve uncertain future events or financial risk.
ACTUARIES is to effectively communicate ‘technical insight’ to a
DO? potentially ‘non-technical’ audience. I have to be cognizant of
AREAS IN WHICH YOU WILL LIKELY FIND ACTUARIES WORKING INCLUDE: the fact that they may not understand the terminology or the
methods we use, so patience is key.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two young

INSURANCE PENSIONS BANKING HEALTHCARE RISK MANAGEMENT kids, friends, and singing at my local church. I also enjoy
Given the set of skills that actuaries have developed, many have also branched into wider reading and watching a series on TV, and when I need to get
business fields, e.g data analytics, capital projects, environmental issues,etc. the blood pumping, I play squash.
From the definition above, three key areas of focus can be highlighted:
1. Statistical and mathematical skills l 2. Solving business problems l 3. Being a professional

WHICH SUBJECTS AHOULD It is important to remember

YOU BE CONSIDERING? that actuarial science courses
generally have higher entrance
Based on these areas, the following requirements that also consider
subjects are required: your average results. This should
• Mathematics & English be considered when choosing your
additional subjects.
While the subjects below are The next step after school is to enrol
recommended: into an actuarial science course at an
• Computer Science: accredited university.
• Advanced Programme Mathematics: For further information on each
• Accounting and/or Economics: university’s programme, please visit
• Physics: their respective websites.

facebook.com/ASSASLC/

slcsocialevents@actuarialsociety.org.za

www.actuarialsociety.org.za

2 nd Floor, Birkdale 1, River Park, Gloucester Road, Mowbray, Cape Town 7405
t: +27 87 073 8940
34 35
 My key responsibility is to ensure that RMB, through its
Risk Analyst derivatives trading activities in Africa and South Africa does
not take on more credit exposure than they should. I work
closely with the organisation’s traders to understand their
There are intended trade-flows and to ensure that they know what
more bril- limits they should be operating within. To do this well, I make
liant mathe- sure that I stay abreast of what is happening not only in the
maticians South African economy and regulatory environment, but in all
out there countries where RMB has trading activities. I enjoy attending
than you conferences and short courses that contribute to my
Mhango
think, and knowledge and understanding of global markets, risk,
they are in- regulations and big data.
Thloni

volved in exciting and diverse ca-

reers. I grew up with a passion for Always needing to be leaps ahead of the Traders, my day
mathematics and problem solving starts early with reading up on global market movements and
which led me to study a BSc in ap- trends which is usually followed by detailed discussions with
plied and pure mathematics at the Trader’s and risk managers to understand their expectations
University of the Witwatersrand, fol- and planned position for the day’s trading. I then monitor
lowed by Honours and Master’s in trading credit exposure and capital reports throughout the
applied mathematics (Operations day and may attend several meetings.
Research) at Stellenbosch Univer-
sity. Managing RMB’s trading desks across the continent and
abroad, including those situated in London and India, is
Although I did not have a clear plan challenging but keeps me on my toes. I regard this as one of
of how I would use my the critical highlights of my role – interacting with multi-
qualifications, I knew that I would disciplined and diverse colleagues from around the globe
have the tools to work in any field who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share.
requiring mathematics and
problem-solving. Whilst at When I am not wrapping my head around the world’s
University, I applied to several economic ups and downs, I am a Manchester United fan who
graduate programmes and in the loves spending time with my family.
end, chose to join Rand Merchant
Bank’s programme.

36 37
 equation I have had a major impact on international climate
Climatologist change negotiations via the 2015 Paris Agreement. But more
about that later……

The Butterfly Whilst I admit that when I finished school, I had no clear

Engelbrecht Effect was

introduced
by Edward
career plan (not many 18-year old’s do!) I did know that I had
a talent for Maths and loved Applied Maths as well as having
an interest in Geography, specifically Climatology. To pursue a
Lorentz in tertiary education, I was dependent on obtaining a bursary
Francois
the context and was, fortuitously, offered one by the South African
of Weather Bureau. I completed my undergraduate degree in
atmospheric Meteorology, Maths and Applied Maths at the University of
predictability. The idea behind the Pretoria, going on to complete my Master’s and PhD in
effect is simply explained by the Numerical Meteorology with the same Institution.
analogy of a butterfly flapping its
wings in Tokyo, leading to a tornado A large component of my knowledge and skill comes from my
in Tennessee. The chances of this academic pursuits. I was fortunate to have a strong
occurring are improbable, but the foundation of Applied Maths from my undergraduate studies
concept is really that a small event and, whilst completing a PhD occupied a significant portion of
can have large and far-reaching my younger life, I was studying and learning about a subject I
consequences in the future. Not am passionate about, under the significant mentorship of an
only is the Butterfly Effect directly Australian supervisor, with whom I still maintain a close
linked to the field of climatology, relationship.
but it also accurately describes What is really fascinating and exciting about my career is the
what climatology is. Climatology variety I experience on a daily basis, together with the ability
uses partial differential equations this career affords me to make an impact on matters which
and the laws of physics to make could, literally, save our planet in the long term. There are
both short- and long-term three components to my work; they are climate modelling, the
predictions of weather conditions communication of science and post-graduate training.
and patterns based on atmospheric
changes. My career journey further Climate modelling – I work with big data and high-
personifies the Butterfly Effect – performance computing to develop code which assists in the
starting with a small mathematical development of accurate climate models. Data is gathered

38 39
 from several sources which gives me the opportunity to This is certainly a fascinating and rewarding career option –
interact with meteorologists, atmospheric chemists, and one which few people would have enough knowledge to
oceanographers carbon specialists and ecosystem specialists. pursue. My role is “hands on”. And I love the idea that I can
I have performed instrumental work on developing code that analyse data and develop models that will predict events that
led to the development of the first African-based climate or you can see coming to life. We are the last generation who
earth system model. The application of this model is can really make a difference to saving our precious planet.
assisting the Global Change Institute (GCI) to generate Now, who wouldn’t want to do that?
projections of future climate change for Africa.

Communication of Science – the communication component

of my knowledge and research is, of course, critical. There is
a strong interface between the work performed by the GCI and
the formulation of government and inter-governmental policy
on climate change. A paper that I published in 2018
addressed the effects of a 1.5°C increase in global
temperatures and was a strong component of the Paris
Agreement on climate change which affected 197 nations
around the globe. Whilst scientists do not prescribe policy,
they are responsible for providing data and information that
is policy relevant. This means that I regularly interact with
South Africa’s Climate Change Directorate, I attend climate
change negotiations and I communicate with numerous
stakeholders such as the agricultural sector, water authorities,
municipalities and even financial institutions who have an
interest in understanding the risks associated with climate
change.

I have a deep passion for what I do, and I am keen for

students to experience the amazing work I do and the
opportunities I have encountered in my career. I love the
outdoors, describe myself as an environmentalist and, I also
have a passion for butterflies!

40 41
 transportation services in a specific metropolitan using
Aeronautical Engineer various degrees of automation.
While a degree in Aeronautical Engineering provides a wide
I have always range of career opportunities, at the end of the day, it comes
loved mathe- down to what you want as an individual. For example, I kicked
matics. off my career as a junior engineer, performing stress analysis
Throughout on aircraft structures. I then got involved in research projects
Puseletso
my school of crewless aerial vehicles (UAV) which investigated
career it was controlling an uncrewed helicopter in the event of engine
my favourite failure. I then left the Aviation industry entirely and became a
Maseko
subject, and financial modeller for a management consulting firm. But I
I know that whatever academic and have gone full circle and am now back working in the aviation
career journey I would embark on industry and loving it.
later in life would have mathemat- I work for the South African Civil Aviation Authority as a
ics at the core. When it came to Certification Engineer focusing on exemption applications and
choosing what to study at university, regulatory development. The aviation industry can apply to be
Engineering seemed like the obvi- exempt from any regulation and my job is to evaluate such an
ous choice as I enjoyed solving application to ensure it will not pose any serious or imminent
problems. The science behind aero- risk to air safety and security.
nautics intrigued me even further.
Hence, I studied Aeronautical Engi- As you can imagine, I must keep up-to-date with trends and
neering. research in my field. I do so by frequently attending training
covering a wide range of topics, including aviation safety, civil
I obtained a Bachelor of Science in aviation management, and learning on the job through my
Aeronautical Engineering, as well as involvement in various projects.
a Master of Science Engineering
from the University of the What I enjoy most about my job is that my days are always
Witwatersrand. I am currently varied, so I am continuously being challenged and stretched. I
enrolled for a PhD, researching enjoy drafting aviation regulations which ultimately have an
urban air mobility, which involves impact on the industry.
looking at passenger or cargo air
Outside of work, I live an active lifestyle and exercise as often
as I can. I also love attending comedy shows for a good laugh.

42 43
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