The Faculty of Science at the University of Cape Town (UCT) hosted its annual Distinguished Alumni Lecture on 30 September 2025, honouring two exceptional graduates whose careers reflect UCT’s commitment to advancing science, education, and leadership across Africa and beyond.

This year’s event featured two celebrated alumni: Ms. Hilja Eelu, recognised as the Rising Star Distinguished Alumna, a title awarded to outstanding graduates within 15 years of completing their studies who show exceptional promise and impact; and Mr. Chris Holdsworth, honoured as a Distinguished Alumnus, a prestigious recognition for established leaders whose careers have significantly advanced their fields. One talk focused on health and social innovation, while the other highlighted global finance and foresight, showcasing the diverse impact of a UCT science education.

Strengthening lifelong connections

Opening the evening, the Dean of Science, Professor Hussein Suleman, reflected on the importance of alumni relationships in sustaining UCT’s academic community. “When you hold a UCT degree, you remain part of the institution’s story." He continued, “Events like this strengthen those ties and celebrate how our graduates continue to contribute to the world through science.”

My life is a science experiment

A PhD candidate in UCT’s Department of Statistical Sciences, Ms. Hilja Eelu shared her journey from studying biomedical sciences to leading malaria modelling research that supports public health decision-making for the Namibian government.

Her talk, “My Life is a Science Experiment,” explored how curiosity, resilience, and mentorship shaped her path as a scientist and social entrepreneur.

“Each of us has a responsibility to use our skills to make a difference,” she said. “For me, that means focusing on education and health and using science as the bridge between them.”

Ms. Eelu co-founded the African Pathfinder Leaders Initiative (APLI), which develops leadership and entrepreneurship skills among Namibian youth. She also collaborates with an organisation that promotes digital access and learning.

Recognised as the 2019 Namibian Economist Young Businesswoman of the Year and a 2024 L’Oréal–UNESCO Women in Science Young Talent Award laureate, Eelu is now focused on building a Science Centre and Public Health Research Institute in Namibia, a dream she says began during her time at UCT.

The future is African

Mr. Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist at Investec Wealth & Investment, reflected on how his MSc in Mathematical Statistics from UCT laid the foundation for a career analysing complex global markets.

“UCT was my training ground,” Holdsworth said. “The ability to understand complex information and explain it simply is one of the most valuable skills I learned here.”

In his address, “The Future is African,” Holdsworth examined the challenges of forecasting in economics, the limitations of big data, and the power of demographic trends. He noted that by 2100, Africa will represent nearly 40% of the global population, positioning the continent as a major force in the world economy. “If we invest in education and opportunity,” he added, “this continent will define the century ahead.”

Holdsworth encouraged institutions like UCT to expand access to world-class science education through digital platforms, empowering the next generation of African thinkers and innovators.

Celebrating achievement and community

The evening concluded with closing remarks from Professor Sheetal Silal, chair of the Faculty of Science Communications and Marketing Committee, who thanked both speakers for their contributions and inspiration. 

Guests enjoyed a reception afterwards, continuing conversations sparked by the talks a fitting end to a night celebrating how UCT alumni continue to change the world through science.