Two students from the University of the Free State (UFS) have been recognised at the prestigious South African Women in Science Awards (Sawisa), an initiative by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI).
These two remarkable women are Anele Mthembu, who is working towards a master’s degree in Disaster Management, and Thandokuhle Gama, a Master of Medical Science, specialising in Pharmacology. The pair were recipients of the DSI-Esther Mahlangu Master’s Fellowship on the night.
“Fascination and curiosity inspired me to pursue a career in science and the built environment,” explained Mthembu, who is a registered professional planner with the South African Council of Planners.
Mthembu’s research that led to her Sawisa nomination was centred on the integration of risk-informed development, and nature-based solutions in Human Settlements in the eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. “One of the challenges I faced in the built environment was the lack of understanding of the disaster management process,” she said, “which was noted after the disastrous flood event in April 2022 in KwaZulu-Natal.”
Gama explained that her research “is based on investigating some medicinal plants used in traditional medicine, for their effectiveness in treating diabetes by inducing stem cells to become insulin-producing cells.”
She too was inspired by her curiosity and inquisitive nature. “Trying to understand how things work and why they work the way they do,” said Gama. “One of the ‘challenges’ I have faced is being underestimated,” she said, “but it doesn’t have that much of a negative impact. I don’t let it get to me, it rather fuels me to keep going.”
Both of these brilliant scientists hope to inspire more women to get into the sciences. “Know your strengths, believe in yourself, and follow your dreams,” said Gama. “Make use of the learning opportunities and don’t be afraid to be the first girl in the space, but remember to invite others next time.”
Mthembu also added: “I advise young women aspiring to enter my field to go for it! As long as there are opportunities for you to grow in your relevant field, I will always advise young women to trust the process and do it because it is possible.”
Warren Hawkins
