Aziza Baccouche facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Aziza Baccouche
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| Born | November 25, 1976 |
| Died | June 11, 2021 (aged 44) |
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Dr. Aziza Baccouche, also known as 'Dr. Z', was an amazing American physicist and filmmaker. She was a special science expert at CNN and started her own company, Aziza Productions. When she was eight years old, she lost most of her eyesight because of a brain tumor. She passed away in 2021.
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Early Life and Challenges
Aziza Baccouche was born on November 25, 1976. Her mother was African-American, and her father was Tunisian. She grew up in Tunisia. As a child, she developed a brain tumor. This caused a condition called hydrocephalus when she was eight years old. Hydrocephalus happens when fluid builds up in the brain. This pressure damaged her optic nerve, which helps you see. Because of this, she lost almost all her vision, keeping only about 9% of it.
Education Journey
Aziza Baccouche loved science and learning. She became the first blind person to study physics at the College of William & Mary. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1995. Even though someone suggested she shouldn't study physics because of her vision, she didn't give up!
She continued her studies and earned her master's degree from Hampton University in 1998. Later, in 2002, she received her PhD in theoretical nuclear physics from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her advanced studies focused on tiny particles called heavy baryons.
Career in Science and Media
Aziza Baccouche was passionate about sharing science with everyone. In 1998, she joined CNN in Atlanta as a special science reporter. She worked in their Washington office.
In 2000, she started her own company, Aziza Productions. This company creates films for non-profit groups. These films help people learn about Black and/or disabled scientists. She wanted to show how amazing these scientists are.
After getting her PhD, Aziza kept working in science communication. She continued with Aziza Productions. She also became a science reporter for a TV show called Evening Exchange with Kojo Nnamdi on Howard University Television. Aziza also worked to encourage more African-American women to study physics. She often shared her knowledge at conferences for the National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP).
In 2020, Aziza wrote a book about her life called "Seeking Vision." It tells her story from when she lost her sight at age eight through her fifth brain surgery. She once said, "We know power is work over time, that strength is endurance over time. So I endured a lot of obstacles, but at the same time I created strength and vision and wisdom and endurance." This quote shows her amazing spirit and determination.
Awards and Recognition
Aziza Baccouche's hard work and inspiring life were recognized. In 2013, she received a HerStory Award. This award was given at the Women's Federation for World Peace USA National Assembly.
