Talented Ghanaian mathematician, Dr. Angela Tabiri, has been crowned the World’s Most Interesting Mathematician in a recent global competition by Big Internet Math-Off.
The contest ran from July 1 to July 24, 2024 in the United States, showcasing mathematicians’ innovative and engaging approaches to their field.
On July 23, Ms. Tabiri faced off with Matt Enlow from the US, as both made their maths pitches which were put to a vote.
We won! It is official. Angela Tabiri (#mathsqueen) is: The World’s Most Interesting Mathematician 2024. This was courtesy of your unflinching support from the first round up to the fourth round. Medaase! Grateful to everyone who has supported me . It took a village to win😊🥳 pic.twitter.com/VeqimSu4Kh
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— Angela Tabiri, PhD (@angela_tabiri) July 24, 2024
Known as the “Maths Queen,” Tabiri, has gained recognition for her pioneering work in mathematics and her creative solutions to complex problems. She emerged victorious in the competition, which featured 16 mathematicians from around the world, including academics, researchers, writers, and business professionals, each demonstrating the fun and relevance of mathematics.
Tabiri’s passion for mathematics began at an early age, despite the challenges and stereotypes associated with being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. She pursued her studies with determination, graduating from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Ghana in 2014. She then enrolled in the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) postgraduate diploma program in mathematics and later secured the Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship to fund her PhD studies at the University of Glasgow, UK.
In June 2019, Tabiri earned her PhD in Mathematics from the University of Glasgow. She is currently a Research Associate focusing on Quantum Algebra and serves as the Academic Manager for the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Program (GMSP) at AIMS Ghana. This program aims to nurture the talents of secondary school girls in Ghana, helping them realize their potential in the mathematical sciences. Additionally, Tabiri organizes Science Slam Ghana, a science communication event where researchers present their work in engaging and accessible ways.
Angela is also the founder of Femafricmaths, a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting female African mathematicians. Through interviews with “mathsqueens” on Femafricmaths’ social media channels, she inspires young people to explore career options in mathematics. She also recruits and trains female mathematicians for hands-on outreach activities aimed at high school students in Ghana, including initiatives like Science in Tents, National STEAM Day, and Y3p3maths.
In February 2024, Tabiri was selected by the Falling Walls Foundation for the 2024 Female Science Talents Intensive Track Program, joining 20 exceptionally talented scientists from 15 countries. This one-year mentoring program aims to promote female leadership in science, business, and society.
Angela Tabiri’s recent accolade as the World’s Most Interesting Mathematician underscores her extraordinary talent and dedication to her field. Her contributions, characterized by creativity and originality, have earned her widespread admiration and respect.
Beyond her academic achievements, Tabiri is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the mathematical community.
She actively mentors young students, especially girls, encouraging them to pursue interests in STEM fields and challenge the barriers that often exist.
Angela Tabiri’s achievements are a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a passion for learning. Her story serves as an inspiration to the next generation of mathematicians, and her contributions continue to make Ghana and the global mathematical community proud.