Kaela Kokkas crowned NITheCS heat FameLab Champion 2026

Congratulations to Kaela Kokkas, who was crowned the NITheCS FameLab Champion 2026 following an inspiring three-minute science presentation during the NITheCS FameLab heat held on 10 June 2026.

Kaela will now represent NITheCS at the FameLab South Africa National Finals, where she will compete for a place at the international FameLab competition in Poland later this year.

The event began on 9 June with an online training programme that equipped more than 30 contestants with the skills needed to communicate their research to non-specialist audiences. Participants received coaching on presenting complex scientific concepts in a clear, engaging and memorable way, while practical sessions allowed each contestant to refine their presentation ahead of the competition.

An exciting competition

On 10 June, contestants presented their research before a panel of judges comprising Prof Eric Rhodes (Rhodes University), Prof William T. Vambe (Nelson Mandela University) and Raphael de Sousa (Rhodes Scholar). Each presentation was assessed according to the FameLab criteria of content, clarity and charisma. The competition showcased the diverse range of research from across South Africa.

Kaela's winning presentation explored how artificial intelligence can be used to investigate links between microbes and cancer, helping researchers better understand the disease and improve future treatments.

"We're working towards reducing cancer incidence. Less cancer and fewer deaths caused by it would be incredible," said Kaela.

The first runner-up, Vitalis Mbayo, demonstrated how supercomputing can identify potential new breast cancer treatments and help make drug discovery more affordable.

Second runner-up, Courtney Brown, explained how quantum computing could one day improve our understanding and treatment of neurological diseases.

Inspiring science communication

FameLab is one of the world's leading science communication competitions, challenging researchers to explain complex scientific ideas in just three minutes. By developing communication skills alongside research excellence, the programme helps bridge the gap between science and society.

NITheCS congratulates Kaela Kokkas, Vitalis Mbayo and Courtney Brown, as well as all the contestants who participated in this year's heat. The competition showcased the exceptional quality of South Africa's emerging researchers, and we wish Kaela every success as she advances to the FameLab South Africa National Finals.