Zainaaz Hansa making it in IT

Zainaaz Hansa (20) is determined to make a success of herself in Information Technology (IT) with the help of the Vodacom Bursary and the Code Like a Girl programme.

The Vodacom Bursary is an academic merit bursary open to full-time first, second or third-year students intending to study or are studying towards Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, but may lack the necessary resources to study further.

“The Vodacom bursary has been a game changer not only alleviating the financial burden of tertiary education on my family, but studying at North West University has broadened my perspectives on the scope of technology and computer science.”

Hansa says she has always had an interest in information technology.

From an early age, she was curious about applications on her phone and the software on her computer which led her to the IT field.

Hansa also participated in the Vodacom Code Like a Girl programme an initiative that contributes to tackling the low representation of women in STEM.

Hansa aced phase one of the Code Like a Girl program in October 2021. This resulted in Vodacom offering to fund her degree.

“During my participation in the Code Like a Girl program… I have realised if we are to make progress as girls we must uplift each other especially in a male-dominated industry,” said Hansa.

Hansa’s journey proves how education and mentorship can transform lives, especially for young women aiming to succeed in coding and beyond.

Hansa told Vuk’uzenzele that she struggled with asking for clarity in a male-dominated environment at the fear of being labelled as incompetent. 

 “Young women need to believe in their abilities. Embrace themselves and never compromise their curiosity or growth due to fear of judgment because you are not alone in this journey,” she advised.¥