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Representatives from the Mastercard Foundation visited CERI to meet African STARS fellows, learn about their experiences, and explore how the programme is helping develop the next generation of African researchers, innovators, and public health leaders.

photos: CERI Media, Leo Burnett

 

The visit brought together Young Professional Programme (YPP) and MSc fellows for a day of engagement and knowledge-sharing. Using creative photo collages, fellows introduced themselves through stories of their upbringing, education, research interests, and career goals. These presentations provided valuable insight into the diverse backgrounds and ambitions of the young leaders supported through the programme.

Prof Cheryl Baxter, Head of Scientific Support at CERI, presented an overview of CERI and the African STARS Fellowship, highlighting its contribution to developing future African researchers, innovators, and public health leaders. Fellows also shared how the programme has shaped their academic and professional journeys, while engaging directly with members of the Mastercard Foundation team.

The programme included a tour of CERI’s biotechnology facilities, led by Dr Ross Vermeulen, offering a glimpse into the advanced research infrastructure supporting scientific discovery and innovation in Africa. The day concluded with informal conversations and relationship-building among fellows, CERI staff, and Mastercard Foundation representatives during a wine and tea tasting at Stark-Condé Wines in the Jonkershoek Valley.

News date: 2026-06-03

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