Women achieve remarkable milestones in science

The sixth edition of the L’Oréal-UNESCO FWIS South African Young Talents Awards celebrates seven pioneering women scientists.

On 26 September, at a dazzling ceremony hosted in Sandton, Joburg, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science (FWIS) awards recognised the groundbreaking contributions of several women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), underscoring the essential role women play in solving global challenges. 

Distinguished attendees included Gugu Zwane, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) as well as Serge Sacre, CEO of L’Oréal South Africa, along with the FWIS jury, assessors, government officials, and representatives from academic institutions. 

The transformative power of scientific research

UNESCO’s Prof. Martial Zebaze Kana, Head of Science at the UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa, opened the event with remarks on the transformative power of scientific research, especially in renewable energy and innovation. His address set the stage for an inspiring evening celebrating scientific excellence. 

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Koleka Mlisana, CEO of the National Health Laboratory Services, whose pioneering research in HIV, TB diagnostics, and COVID-19 has saved countless lives. Prof. Mlisana emphasised the vital contributions women make to science and urged the laureates to continue their leadership in advancing solutions to global challenges. 

Seven honourees representing excellence in diverse fields of research: 

• Dr. Nonsikelelo P. Hlongwa, Stellenbosch University, for her research on the Effects of COVID-19 on the Gut Bacteriome and Virome in Long COVID Patients, offering new insights into diagnostics and treatments for long COVID. 

• Dr. Nandipha L. Botha, iThemba Labs, for her work on Green Bioengineered Nanofertilizers, providing eco-friendly agricultural solutions. 

• Dr. Lesha Pretorius, Stellenbosch University, for her research on Gut-Brain Axis Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), contributing to improved therapies for ASD. 

• Kimberly Coetzer, Stellenbosch University, for developing Multi-Omics Integration Tools, promising breakthroughs in genetic disorder diagnostics, including ALS. 

• Nomthandazo P. Sibiya, Durban University of Technology, for research on Heavy Metals Reduction in Industrial Effluents, promoting sustainable industrial processes. 

• Christine Mkhonto, University of Limpopo, for her work on Phase Stability and Surface Interaction of Fe-Al Alloy, enhancing industrial applications. 

• Kgalaletso Othibeng, University of Johannesburg, for her research on Computational Metabolomics of South African Medicinal Plants, unlocking the medicinal potential of indigenous plants for drug development. 

These laureates are addressing critical issues such as climate change, sustainability, and public health, advancing scientific progress and shaping a brighter future for South Africa. 

Michelle Gololo, Corporate Affairs & Engagement Manager at L’Oréal, closed the evening with heartfelt congratulations: “I eagerly anticipate the next 12 months working with these outstanding laureates. Together, we will inspire future generations of women in science.” 

The L’Oréal-UNESCO FWIS Awards continues to uplift and support women scientists, ensuring a future where gender equality thrives in STEM.