Young cancer survivor Zachary du Toit shines at the Eskom expo fair

Thirteen-year-old Zachary “Zhara” du Toit from Laerskool Lochnerhof in Strand shone at the 45th Eskom Expo International Science Fair, held at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park from Monday, October 6, to Friday, October 10.

Zhara earned first place in the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) Environmental Engineering Division Award, taking home R7 000 and a silver medal for her research project, “Designing a Reusable Crate for Sustainable Grocery Delivery.”

The international fair brought together some of the brightest young scientists from across South Africa and countries such as Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, India, and Russia, celebrating creativity and problem-solving in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEM).

Representing the Stellenbosch region, Zhara distinguished herself not only through her inventive project but also through a personal story marked by resilience and hope. 

“Two years ago, I faced a tough battle with cancer, but that experience taught me to never give up and to always stay hopeful,” she said.

“It made me realise how powerful determination and positive thinking can be, and that I should make the most of every opportunity.”

Outside of science, Zhara loves art, drama, and public speaking, and channels her compassion into her project, “Zhara’s Little Lambs,” which provides crocheted or knitted lambs to children undergoing cancer treatment.

“The lambs are handmade by people from all over South Africa, and so far, we have been able to hand out more than 5 000 lambs to children in hospitals and treatment centres across the country. Each lamb is a small symbol of love, courage, and hope,” she said

She first became involved in the Eskom Expo when her school introduced a science project based on the expo format. Her creativity and passion soon earned her a place at the Stellenbosch Regional Science Fair, and then the opportunity to compete in the international science fair.

Winning the award was an emotional milestone for her.

“Just a few years ago, I was fighting for my life and missed my entire Grade 5 year of school while going through chemotherapy, radiation, and several operations. Standing on that stage, I felt so proud and deeply blessed, realising how far I had come. It meant so much more than just a medal; it was a symbol of hope and strength,” she said.

To other young scientists embarking on their own Eskom Expo journeys, Zhara said: “Choose a topic you really enjoy, it makes everything more fun. Believe in your idea and don’t give up, even if things don’t work out the first time. Be proud of yourself and just do your best. And if you ever get the chance to go to the international science fair, grab it with both arms, it’s a life-changing experience you’ll never forget."

The Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty, said: “The 2025 international science fair ignites a celebration of curiosity, courage, and innovation.”