Reaching for the Stars from Butterworth: Reflections on Our Space Awareness Day at Emmanuel High

On April 24th, 2025, the Moonshot Africa team landed in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, with one mission in mind — to ignite curiosity, confidence, and career awareness in the hearts of young learners through the lens of space.

Hosted at Emmanuel High School, our very first Space Awareness and Career Day welcomed 120 Grade 10, 11 and 12 learners — boys and girls from all walks of academic life: from STEM to Humanities to Commerce. Their eagerness to learn, build, and dream reminded us exactly why we started Moonshot Africa in the first place.

“Did you know that space technology drives everyday tools like GPS, weather apps, and even the banking system? That satellites help monitor our climate and predict droughts?”— Linda Ngozwana, Co-founder of Moonshot Africa

We started the day with a series of interactive talks that challenged everything the learners thought they knew about space. We spoke about engineers and astronauts, yes — but also about lawyers who shape space policy, educators who inspire young minds, designers who craft future habitats, and data scientists monitoring Earth from orbit.

What stood out was how engaged the learners were. They asked questions, shared ideas, and tackled real-world challenges with energy and creativity. We gave each group a box of recycled materials and asked them to design a satellite or lunar base. In just over an hour, they had built impressive models with clear logic, powerful storytelling, and innovative ideas. The teamwork we saw that afternoon was extraordinary.

One team designed a lunar base with solar-powered life support and an emergency escape hatch. Another crafted a satellite built for disaster monitoring over the African continent. It was powerful to witness learners—many of whom had never considered careers in science or technology—present bold, intelligent ideas with such confidence.

“These learners showed up with questions, curiosity and courage. They left with clarity, confidence and creativity.”— Linda Ngozwana

We also handed out Moonshot branded bags, awareness day booklet, and prizes donated by our supporters, including the Space Store UK. Every learner left with something tangible — a reminder that they belonged in the world of space.

Perhaps most meaningful was the response from the teachers, school leadership, and the representative from the Eastern Cape Department of Education. They praised the event not just for its creativity, but for its relevance. In a world that’s moving faster than our education systems can keep up with, initiatives like this matter more than ever.

“We must not wait until learners are in university to tell them they can contribute to space. We need to start in the classroom. We need to start now.”

This is just the beginning. In 2026, we aim to reach 500 learners across four rural schools, bringing with us toolkits, mentorship, and hope. We want learners in the most overlooked places to see themselves not just as consumers of technology—but as creators, innovators, and leaders in the global space sector.

If you’d like to partner with us, sponsor our next event, or simply learn more — please reach out. The Moonshot journey is growing, and we’d love for you to be part of it.

Grade 11 and 12 Learners of Emmanuel High School

Together, let’s build an African space community that leaves no one behind. 🌕🚀