For a young girl looking up at the night sky, becoming an astronomer might seem like a distant dream. But seeing women across Africa studying galaxies, exploring planets, analysing stars and contributing to space science can help turn that dream into something she can actually imagine for herself.

Representation matters. When young people see women working as astronomers, astrophysicists, engineers, researchers and space scientists, they are shown that these careers are not only possible,  they are possible for them.

Across Africa, women in astronomy are helping to change this picture. Through their research, education, mentorship and outreach, they are opening doors for the next generation and showing girls that there is a place for them among the stars.

This is especially important as Africa’s astronomy and space science sectors continue to grow. The continent needs young people with skills in physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science and other STEM fields to help shape its future in space.

But inspiring the next generation isn’t only about telling girls that they can become scientists. Sometimes, they need to see someone who looks like them doing it first. A female astronomer can become more than a scientist. She can become a role model, a mentor and proof that the path is possible.

This Women’s Month, African Science Stars celebrates the women who are helping to change the face of African astronomy, and the young girls who may one day follow in their footsteps.

Because the girl looking up at the stars today could be the woman making discoveries about them tomorrow.

If you can see her, you can imagine yourself there.