Mathematics is often viewed as a challenging subject; for many young African girls, it’s seen as a path not meant for them. Dr. Angela Tabiri is changing that narrative. Known as Ghana’s Maths Queen, she is an award-winning mathematician, educator, and advocate for women in STEM.
Dr. Tabiri recently made history as the first African to win The Big Internet Math Off, a global competition where she outshone 16 other accomplished mathematicians to earn the title of “The World’s Most Interesting Mathematician.” This victory showcased her deep understanding of math and her ability to explain complex concepts in an engaging way.
Beyond academia, Dr. Tabiri is a passionate mentor and role model who works to empower African girls and women in mathematics. As a Research Associate at AIMS-Ghana and the founder of FemAfricMaths, she leads programs that provide mentorship, scholarships, and hands-on training for young girls in mathematical sciences.
Her journey, however, was not straightforward. From growing up in a noisy household of six siblings to overcoming gender stereotypes in STEM, her story is one of resilience, inspiration, and groundbreaking achievements.
Early Life & Educational Journey
Dr. Angela Tabiri’s journey into mathematics was anything but conventional. Born and raised in Ashaiman, a bustling neighborhood in Tema, Ghana, she grew up in a lively household with five sisters. Her family environment was filled with love but often noisy, making it difficult to focus on her studies. She frequently sought refuge in a local youth community center, where she could study in peace.
Initially, Angela aspired to follow in the footsteps of two of her sisters and study business administration. However, her excellent grades weren’t high enough to secure a spot in the program. Instead, she was admitted to study mathematics and economics at the University of Ghana—a twist of fate she now calls a “blessing in disguise.”
Her true passion for mathematics developed gradually. What started as a practical choice evolved into a deep appreciation for solving puzzles and tackling mathematical problems. But it was during her PhD at the University of Glasgow, UK, that a turning point occurred. Watching the movie Hidden Figures, which tells the story of Black female mathematicians at NASA, was a defining moment. Inspired by Katherine Johnson, one of the film’s central figures, Angela realized the impact that mathematics could have. She became even more determined to pave the way for other African women in STEM.
Fueled by this inspiration, she earned the prestigious Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship in 2015, allowing her to pursue advanced research in quantum algebra. She graduated with a PhD in Mathematics in 2019, joining a select group of African female mathematicians making waves on the global stage.
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Achievements and Contributions
Dr. Angela Tabiri has made remarkable contributions to mathematics, academia, and women’s empowerment in STEM. Her groundbreaking research in quantum algebra has gained international recognition, particularly her work on noncommutative structures in mathematics. In 2019, she co-authored the paper The Nodal Cubic is a Quantum Homogeneous Space, which was well-received in the quantum mathematics community.
Beyond research, Angela is dedicated to mentorship and education. She currently serves as a Research Associate and Academic Manager for the Girls in Mathematical Sciences Programme (GMSP) at AIMS Ghana. Through this program, she nurtures secondary school girls in Ghana, encouraging them to explore mathematics beyond the classroom.
One of her most notable achievements came in 2024 when she won The Big Internet Math Off competition, organized by The Aperiodical magazine. She outperformed 16 mathematicians worldwide to claim the title “The World’s Most Interesting Mathematician”—a milestone showcasing her ability to explain complex mathematical concepts in engaging ways. This victory was significant because it demonstrated that African women can excel in global STEM competitions, further breaking barriers in the field.
Angela also founded FemAfricMaths, a nonprofit organization that empowers young African girls in mathematics. Through both online and in-person mentoring, she introduces students to diverse career paths in mathematics and STEM. She actively shares interviews with leading female mathematicians worldwide to provide role models for aspiring students.
Her passion for quantum science and technology has positioned her as a thought leader in Africa’s scientific landscape. She was instrumental in Ghana’s successful push for the UN to declare 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. She firmly believes that quantum advancements will shape the future in fields such as medicine, cybersecurity, and environmental science.
With a commitment to breaking stereotypes, Angela continues to inspire the next generation of African female mathematicians, proving that mathematics is not just a “boy’s subject” but a field where women can thrive, innovate, and lead.
Challenges and Growth
Dr. Angela Tabiri’s journey to becoming a renowned mathematician was not without obstacles. Growing up in Ashaiman, a densely populated neighborhood in Ghana, she faced limited access to academic resources and had to navigate a noisy home environment with her five sisters. To focus on her studies, she often sought refuge at a local youth community center, where she could immerse herself in mathematics.
Her biggest challenge came when she was not accepted into her first-choice program, Business Administration. Initially disheartened, she was instead offered admission to Mathematics and Economics—a path that ultimately transformed her future.
Angela also faced gender biases in STEM. Mathematics in Ghana is traditionally seen as a “boy’s subject,” and many girls are discouraged from pursuing it. This lack of female role models made it difficult for her to envision a long-term career in the field. However, exposure to international opportunities—like her postgraduate studies at AIMS Ghana and the University of Glasgow—helped her realize the vast potential within mathematics.
One defining moment in her journey was watching Hidden Figures while studying in the UK. The film, which highlights Black female mathematicians at NASA, deeply inspired her and reaffirmed her determination to overcome obstacles and make an impact.
Angela uses her story today to encourage young African girls to persist through challenges. She believes that representation matters and is committed to breaking stereotypes, ensuring that the next generation of female mathematicians in Africa faces fewer barriers than she did.
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Personality and What’s Next
Beyond mathematics, Dr. Angela Tabiri is a force of inspiration, empowerment, and change. Known for her warmth, resilience, and enthusiasm, she is not only an academic but also a mentor, advocate, and role model for young African girls pursuing STEM careers.
Angela’s love for storytelling and education led her to establish FemAfricMaths, a platform where she shares interviews with leading female mathematicians worldwide. Through this initiative, she ensures that young girls have access to female role models in STEM, breaking down stereotypes that suggest mathematics is only for men.
She is also deeply passionate about the potential of quantum science and technology. As a researcher in non-commutative algebra, Angela envisions a future where Africa takes the lead in quantum innovation. She was instrumental in Ghana’s push—alongside Mexico—to have 2025 declared the UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
Looking ahead, Angela is focused on expanding mathematics education in Africa. She hopes to launch a “Quantum Road Show” to introduce schoolchildren to quantum science at an early age. Additionally, she is working with UNESCO to host a “Quantum Hackathon” in Ghana, bringing together postgraduate students from across Africa to apply quantum skills to real-world problems.
Her personal philosophy? “Numbers and puzzles fascinated me, but I never thought a career in maths was for me. Now, I want to ensure young girls see the endless opportunities in STEM.”
As she continues her journey, Angela remains committed to making mathematics more accessible, engaging, and transformative—one equation at a time.