Tag: Equality

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sarah Pedretti, Principal Scientific Officer at the University of Cape Town Lung Institute. Dr Pedretti traces her academic path from France and Switzerland to South Africa, highlighting how international collaboration, mentorship, and intellectual curiosity led her to Cape Town. What began as a one-year postdoctoral opportunity evolved into a long-term commitment to African health research. Collaboration Over Competition: How Science Truly Advances Dr Pedretti challenges the myth of the lone scientist, explaining that modern research depends on collaboration across borders, disciplines, and institutions. She reflects on the importance of global conferences, shared data, and collective problem-solving—especially in a world where funding is scarce and duplication of research wastes precious resources. Inside the UCT Lung Institute: Research from Patient to Cell At the UCT Lung Institute, research is deeply integrated with patient care. Dr Pedretti explains how clinical consultations, paediatric allergy services, and clinical trials feed directly into laboratory science. Her work spans the entire value chain—from real patients and clinical symptoms to cellular mechanisms—ensuring that research outcomes remain grounded in lived health realities. Why Allergies Are on the Rise With nearly one-third of South Africans expected to experience an allergic condition in their lifetime, Dr Pedretti unpacks why allergies are increasing. Environmental factors such as pollution and urbanisation intersect with improved awareness and diagnosis. Alarmingly, up to 40% of allergy sufferers are children, making this a growing public health concern. The Hidden Danger: Allergic Reactions to Medication A major focus of Dr Pedretti’s research is drug-induced allergic reactions—particularly to hypertension, HIV, and TB medications. These reactions are often overlooked because patients assume prescribed medicine cannot be the source of harm. Her work aims to identify genetic and biological markers that could one day predict adverse reactions before treatment begins, potentially saving lives. Women, Hormones, and Immunity The conversation explores why women are more prone to allergic and immune-mediated conditions after puberty. Hormonal changes linked to menstruation and menopause can intensify symptoms, underscoring the need for gender-sensitive research and treatment approaches in immunology and allergy care. A Critical Skills Shortage: Where Are the Allergists? Despite rising allergy prevalence, South Africa has only 14 trained allergists—most of them based in Cape Town. Dr Pedretti highlights this severe shortage and reflects on why allergy remains an under-recognised medical specialty, despite its growing burden on public health systems. Funding, Gender, and the Real Barriers in Science Contrary to common assumptions, Dr Pedretti notes that gender itself has not been her primary barrier. Instead, funding constraints remain the biggest challenge in scientific careers. She discusses navigating local and international funding bodies, philanthropic foundations, and industry partnerships—emphasising adaptability and openness as survival skills in research. Science with Purpose: From Rooibos to Genomics Among her most fascinating projects is research into rooibos tea, inspired by a local remedy. Early laboratory findings suggest rooibos may reduce allergic responses, leading to clinical trials that could validate indigenous knowledge through scientific evidence. Her broader vision is clear: science must lead to real-world solutions, whether through diagnostics, prevention, or personalised medicine. Education as Empowerment Dr Pedretti reflects deeply on the role of education in shaping her career and worldview. She credits accessible education systems, lifelong learning, and critical thinking as foundations for innovation—and stresses how unequal access to education continues to limit potential, particularly for women in Africa. Success, Integrity, and Passion For Dr Pedretti, success is built on work ethic, honesty, and resilience. She speaks candidly about long hours, failed experiments, and the importance of publishing negative results. Above all, she believes passion—for science, for patients, for impact—is non-negotiable in a demanding field. Standing on the Shoulders of Strong Women The episode wraps up with moving reflections on the women who shaped her journey—her mother, a pharmacist; her postdoctoral supervisor; and the many women leaders she has encountered at UCT. Their example proves that excellence in science and leadership can coexist with family, humanity, and mentorship. Dr Pedretti closes with a powerful call to action: Trust your curiosity. Build your skills. Seek mentors. Don’t wait for permission to lead. The world needs your voice, your ideas, and your vision. Tune in for more…

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February 26, 2026

Dr. Sarah Pedretti – UCT Lung Institute – Limitless

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sarah Pedretti, Principal Scientific Officer at the University of Cape Town Lung Institute. Dr Pedretti traces her academic path from France and Switzerlan...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sebastiana Kalula, emeritus associate professor, specialist physician in geriatric medicine, Director of the Albertina and Walter Sisulu Institute of Ageing in Africa, and Co-Director of the International Longevity Centre South Africa at the University of Cape Town. As global life expectancy rises, Dr Kalula unpacks one of the most pressing issues of our time: how to ensure that longer lives are also healthier, dignified, and equitable — especially for women. From Rural Zambia to Global Leadership in Ageing Dr Kalula reflects on her journey from growing up in rural eastern Zambia, supported by parents who valued education despite not having had the opportunity themselves, to qualifying in medicine and eventually discovering geriatric medicine in the UK. What began as a practical career pathway became a calling. She describes geriatrics as a specialty that blends science and humanity — one that looks beyond a single disease to consider the whole person: physical health, mental well-being, social context, and functional ability. Her career has since positioned her at the forefront of ageing research and advocacy across Africa, where the demographic shift toward older populations is accelerating rapidly. Health Span vs. Lifespan: A Critical Distinction One of the most powerful insights from the conversation is Dr Kalula’s emphasis on extending health span rather than simply lifespan. Living longer, she cautions, is not the goal if those additional years are marked by disability and poor quality of life. She explains that while genetics contribute approximately 25% to longevity, the majority of our health outcomes are shaped by social determinants: education, income, access to healthcare, safe environments, and lifestyle choices. The conditions in which we are born, grow, work and age profoundly shape how long, and how well, we live. Her practical advice is clear: Prioritise whole foods over processed diets Stay physically active at every age Protect sleep and manage stress Remain socially connected Invest in preventive healthcare early in life Healthy ageing, she reminds us, is a life-course process, not a switch we flip at 60. The Gendered Reality of Ageing in Africa Dr Kalula explains that women live longer than men, which means they carry a disproportionate burden of age-related conditions such as dementia. But biology tells only part of the story. Lifetime inequalities, such as limited access to education, unpaid caregiving roles, economic insecurity, and widowhood, compound women’s vulnerability in later life. Chronic stress, she explains, elevates cortisol levels, weakens immunity, increases inflammation, and raises the risk of conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease, all of which can contribute to cognitive decline. In the African context, the challenges can be even more severe. Widowed older women often face social exclusion, loneliness, poverty, and in some communities, even harmful stigma. The emotional and psychological toll of these realities can itself increase dementia risk. Dr Kalula calls for stronger legal protections, income security through pensions, age-friendly healthcare systems, and, critically, better age- and gender-disaggregated data to inform policy. Dementia, Vascular Health and Prevention The conversation also tackles dementia — a growing global health concern. Dr Kalula highlights that in Africa, vascular disease (including strokes and poor circulation to the brain) is a major contributor to dementia. This underscores the importance of managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors early in life. She also emphasises the importance of brain stimulation. Education, meaningful work, continuous learning, and challenging routines all help maintain cognitive reserve. The brain, like the body, needs exercise. Leadership, Mentorship and Building Sustainable Success Beyond medicine, Dr Kalula shares powerful reflections on leadership. She speaks about the importance of mentorship at every stage of life, humility in leadership, and building respectful teams where others can flourish.  She is also a member of the African Research on Ageing Network (AFRAN), the Global Aging Research Network (GARN), the South African Geriatrics Society (SAGS) and the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics (IAGG Balancing an academic medical career with family life required resilience, clarity of priorities, reliable childcare, and strong support systems at home and work. “No one succeeds alone,” she reflects, emphasising the value of quality friendships and supportive networks. Her philosophy of success moves beyond achievement to sustainability, well-being, and community impact. A Call to Action for Women In her closing message to girls and women, Dr Kalula encourages continuous self-development: Be the best version of yourself wherever you are Seek mentors Keep learning Challenge your mind Compete against yourself, not others Define where you want to be — and work toward it deliberately Ageing, she reminds us, is universal: “We are all getting there, if we are lucky.” The question is whether we will build societies that allow women to age with dignity, inclusion, and vitality. Tune in for more

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February 19, 2026

Dr. Sebastiana Kalula – Specialist Physician in Geriatric Medicine, UCT – Invest in your healthspan

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sebastiana Kalula, emeritus associate professor, specialist physician in geriatric medicine, Director of the Albertina and Walter Sisulu Institute of Agein...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Claudia Cardoso from the University of Pretoria.  Dr Claudia Cardoso’s interest in veterinary science was ignited when she was 10 years old, watching a local veterinarian diagnose and treat her sick dog, an ordinary consultation that, for a young girl, revealed something extraordinary. In that moment, she witnessed “knowledge in action”— a spark that would shape her life’s path. Dr Cardoso shares what it meant to rebuild her career after immigrating to South Africa without speaking English, navigating professional scepticism in a male-dominated production environment, and persevering Veterinary Science Beyond the Clinic With nearly two decades of experience, Dr Cardoso offers a window into the diverse realities of veterinary work beyond companion animals. Her expertise spans animal health, reproduction, and production systems — areas critical to food security and rural livelihoods. Through university-led outreach programmes, she worked directly with underserved rural communities, providing veterinary care where access is limited or non-existent. She recounts memorable cases where timely intervention, education on nutrition, and preventive health measures helped farmers preserve entire herds, safeguarding both animals and household livelihoods. These stories underscore the vital role veterinarians play in development, sustainability, and social impact. Gender, Expertise, and Earning Trust Veterinary production systems are still widely perceived as male-dominated spaces, particularly at farm management level. Dr Cardoso speaks about moments when her expertise was questioned or her advice challenged, not because of its scientific merit, but because of who she was. Rather than internalising these experiences, she explains how she learned to navigate them with technical rigour, clarity, and evidence-based outcomes. By presenting facts, outlining consequences, and allowing results to speak for themselves, she asserts a powerful lesson: credibility is built through consistency, confidence, and measurable impact. Animal Production, Ethics, and Feeding the World Dr Cardoso demystifies animal production for listeners, explaining why it is central to global food systems. With a growing global population, the challenge is not simply producing more food, but doing so ethically, sustainably, and with respect for animal welfare and environmental limits. She explores how genetics, nutrition, disease prevention, and welfare standards must work together for animals to reach their full potential, and why productivity without care is neither viable nor ethical. Her insights reveal the delicate balance between profitability, responsibility, and long-term sustainability in modern livestock systems. One Welfare: An Interconnected World Central to Dr Cardoso’s philosophy is the One Welfare framework, the understanding that animal welfare, human wellbeing, environmental health, and food security are inseparable. She explains how farmers’ livelihoods are directly tied to the health of their animals, and how crises affecting livestock often place people at personal risk as they attempt to protect what sustains them. Lessons in Resilience, Curiosity, and Purpose Dr Cardoso closes the show with a message to girls and women to remain curious, pursue the education or career that calls to you, and trust that your contribution matters — not only to yourself, but to society at large. Tune in for more…

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February 5, 2026

Dr Claudia Cardoso – Animal Production Veterinarian: University of Pretoria – Remain Curious

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Claudia Cardoso from the University of Pretoria.  Dr Claudia Cardoso’s interest in veterinary science was ignited when she was 10 years old, watching a loc...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Rosemary Dallas,  a veterinarian in private practice who owns Alphen Veterinary Hospital in Constantia. She shares her journey into a career that embraces her multifaceted interests. Dr Rosemary Dallas traces her path into veterinary science back to her childhood in Botswana, where the absence of veterinary services shaped her sensitivity to animal welfare and planted the early seeds of a career dedicated to care, responsibility, and service. What began as an affinity for animals evolved into a calling that perfectly blended her analytical strengths with deep empathy. Choosing the Path — and Letting Doors Open Not initially a lifelong dream, veterinary science emerged as Rosemary’s chosen profession through persistence, opportunity, and intuition. Standing at the crossroads between engineering, accounting, and veterinary medicine, she reflects on how resilience and openness to unexpected opportunities ultimately defined her career trajectory. Science, Skill and a Curious Mind With interests spanning surgery, diagnostic imaging, and small-animal cardiology, Dr Dallas speaks to the importance of lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity. Her fascination with cardiology reflects her love for precision, mechanics, and problem-solving — where engineering principles meet living systems. Owning a Practice, Serving a Community As the owner of Alphen Veterinary Hospital in Constantia, Dr Dallas shares how practice ownership was not a planned ambition but a gradual, values-driven journey. For her, leadership is about stewardship — supporting staff livelihoods, nurturing long-term client relationships, and becoming a trusted anchor within the community. Trust as the Cornerstone of Care In a profession often marked by emotional stress and financial pressure, trust is everything. Dr Dallas explains how long-standing relationships with clients — sometimes spanning generations — create safe spaces for decision-making, compassion, and shared responsibility in moments of vulnerability. Women, Work and a Culture of Care While not a deliberate strategy, Dr Dallas leads a largely female team, reflecting broader shifts within the profession. She reflects on how empathy, collaboration, and mutual support shape a workplace culture that prioritises both excellence and humanity — while acknowledging the need for balance and diversity. Prevention, Innovation and the Cost of Progress From vaccinations to advanced diagnostics and cardiology care, the conversation highlights the critical role of preventative medicine and technological advancement. Dr Dallas candidly discusses the ethical tension between cutting-edge care and affordability, and her wish to practise in a world where money did not complicate compassion. Stories That Stay With You Memorable cases — from a rescued puppy needing multidisciplinary care to a dramatic tennis-ball surgery — illustrate the humility, teamwork, and courage required in veterinary practice. These stories reveal a profession that constantly tests limits, builds resilience, and delivers profound reward. Opportunities for Women in Veterinary Science Dr Dallas outlines the expanding landscape of opportunities for women, from clinical practice and specialisation to online consulting, industry roles, and academia. Flexibility, she notes, is becoming increasingly possible — but staff retention and burnout remain global challenges requiring intentional change. Faith, Values and Staying the Course Reflecting on her personal philosophy, Dr Dallas shares how faith, integrity, and perseverance have shaped her definition of success. Caring deeply for people, never giving up on better solutions, and walking humbly have guided both her leadership and her life. Words to the Next Generation Closing with a message to girls across the continent, Dr Dallas encourages young women to show up fully, bring value in every space, and strive to be the best version of themselves — reminding listeners that kindness, intellect, and commitment are powerful forces for change. Tune in for more…

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January 29, 2026

Dr Rosemary Dallas – Veterinarian: Alphen Veterinary Hospital – Be Your Best

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Rosemary Dallas,  a veterinarian in private practice who owns Alphen Veterinary Hospital in Constantia. She shares her journey into a career that embraces h...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Asive Luningo, a veterinarian and lecturer in veterinary toxicology at the University of Pretoria, whose journey into animal health is rooted in rural life, cultural tradition, and an unwavering commitment to community wellbeing. Growing up in a royal rural household where animal care was considered “men’s work” and veterinary professionals were virtually unknown, Dr Luningo’s path into veterinary science was neither obvious nor easy. With limited exposure, strong cultural gender roles, and financial barriers, her entry into the profession was shaped by resilience, chance encounters with inspiring teachers, and a determination to prevent the unnecessary suffering of animals she witnessed as a child. What began as a detour into agricultural science became a life-defining calling into veterinary medicine. Dr Luningo reflects on her diverse professional journey,from welfare clinics and state veterinary services in remote, mountainous regions, to academia, research, and public health. These experiences reveal the stark inequalities in animal health services, particularly in rural and communal farming areas where distance, poverty, poor infrastructure, and environmental factors limit access to care. She offers rare insight into how geography, climate change, and toxic plant outbreaks intersect with food security, livelihoods, and public health. Dr Luningo specialises in veterinary toxicology, an often overlooked but critically important field. She unpacks how poisonings, ranging from toxic plants, mycotoxins, snake envenomation, chemical exposure, and malicious poisoning, affect both small and large animals, with devastating consequences for farmers, pet owners, and ecosystems. Her work highlights the growing impact of climate change on toxic plant proliferation and the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and research. The interview also confronts gender and cultural dynamics within veterinary science. Dr Luningo speaks candidly about moments where her presence as a woman was restricted or questioned, particularly in traditional farming contexts, and how professionalism, confidence, and competence became her tools for navigating bias. She reflects on leadership, caregiving responsibilities, and why women’s career trajectories often look different—not lesser—than men’s. As a lecturer and mentor, Dr Luningo raises important concerns about how young veterinarians, especially women, are prepared for real-world practice. She describes the safety risks, emotional demands, and resource constraints faced during community service, calling for support, mentorship, and training for work in under-resourced settings. The conversation culminates in a powerful reflection on why women in veterinary science are vital to South Africa’s food security, animal welfare, and public health, not only as clinicians, but as researchers, inspectors, educators, policymakers, and advocates. Dr Luningo shares the wide range of career paths available in veterinary science, from wildlife and pharmaceutical research to diagnostic laboratories and animal nutrition. With humility and honesty, she shares what she would do differently, the importance of early specialization and knowledge transfer, and the personal values, such as discipline, responsibility, and perseverance have shaped her success. Dr Luningo emphasises perseverance, continuous learning, mentorship, and community as key drivers of success, reminding listeners that their dreams are valid and their contributions essential to building healthier, more equitable societies. Tune in for more…

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January 22, 2026

Dr Asive Luningo – Veterinarian, University of Pretoria – You Count

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Asive Luningo, a veterinarian and lecturer in veterinary toxicology at the University of Pretoria, whose journey into animal health is rooted in rural life, ...

Welcome to Womanity Women in Unity, for our special compilation of select programs to inspire the new year. In this episode, we hear from successful women in engineering, wine research and diplomacy. First, Professor Sara Grobbelaar from the Department of Industrial Engineering, in the Faculty of Engineering, at Stellenbosch University has an unmistakable sense of purpose and multi-faceted journey in the world of engineering, charting an inspiring path that blends technical expertise with human-centered innovation. She discusses opportunities for women in STEM and emphasises that we should never be deterred from studying further. Next, Professor Mathabatha Evodia Setati, who is with the South African Grape and Wine Research Institute at the University of Stellenbosch emphasises the role of education in her career and her motivation to study, driven in part by her parents. She shares insights into the invisible world of micro-organisms which are present everywhere. Lastly, the Swedish Ambassador to South Africa, Anna Karin Eneström, offers powerful insights into the importance of empowering women to make decisions over their own bodies, the role of economic independence in gender equality, and Sweden’s progressive policies, from free childcare since the 1970s to shared parental leave, that have propelled the country to the forefront of global gender-equality rankings. Additionally, revising legislation to tax individuals rather than combined spousal income resulted in individuals taking home more money. It makes economic sense for women, who make up 50% of the population, to contribute to any country’s workforce. Here’s to a new year of courage, connection, and collective progress. Womanity rises because women rise, together.

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January 8, 2026

2026: A Prosperous Year

Welcome to Womanity Women in Unity, for our special compilation of select programs to inspire the new year. In this episode, we hear from successful women in engineering, wine research and diplomacy. First, Professor ...

Welcome to Womanity Women in Unity, for our special compilation of select programs to open the new year. We hope to inspire you through the words of three remarkable women who have succeeded in their respective fields. Our first guest in this feature is Dr Sarah Babb, who is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science. She discusses embracing change by unlearning and learning, and she also sheds light on the underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis of neurodivergent traits in women. She reminds us to Keep stepping into the new version of your shiniest, noblest self; because there’s always more. Our Next guest, Dr Colinda Linde, is a clinical psychologist and chairperson of  the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, who talks about modern women navigating today’s world and the importance of keeping your options open. Our final guest in today’s feature is Judge Nobulawo Martha Mbhele, the Deputy Judge President of the Free State division of the High Court, who emphasises the transformative role of education in her life and how nothing is impossible We hope that this episode encourages you to pursue your best.  Warm wishes for the New Year from Womanity

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January 1, 2026

2026 Happy New Year – Nothing is Impossible

Welcome to Womanity Women in Unity, for our special compilation of select programs to open the new year. We hope to inspire you through the words of three remarkable women who have succeeded in their respective fields. ...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Nonhlanhla Vilakazi who specialises in palaeo-herpetology and heritage management in the Zoology Department at the University of Johannesburg. Her work uncovers stories from fossils that contribute to new ways of seeing ourselves and our future. Dr Vilakazi takes us beneath the Earth's surface to explore forgotten ecosystems, rare fossil snakes, and the secrets embedded in rock formations that stretch back millions of years. Through her African-centred lens, she explains how ancient species help us understand climate change, biodiversity loss, and the alarming possibility that humanity may be in the midst of a mass extinction event. Beyond the science, Dr Vilakazi is a powerful advocate for reshaping human relationships with misunderstood creatures like snakes, blending scientific insight with Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural narratives. Her storytelling transforms fear into understanding, reminding listeners how deeply interconnected life truly is both past and present. The conversation also highlights her commitment to transforming STEM education. Dr Vilakazi discusses the importance of integrating indigenous worldviews with scientific methods to make STEM relevant and inclusive, especially for young women and learners from under-resourced communities. She speaks candidly about breaking stereotypes in paleontology, the challenges of being one of the few women in fieldwork, and the vital need for family-friendly policies in academia. From groundbreaking discoveries in South Africa, Namibia, and Uganda to cutting-edge AI collaborations that are modernising fossil analysis, Dr Vilakazi’s work pushes scientific boundaries while inspiring the next generation of African scientists. Despite her trailblazing contributions, Dr Vilakazi reminds us that paleontology remains a male-dominated field. One still shaped by the lingering stereotype of the “Indiana Jones” adventurer. She speaks openly about the subtle and overt barriers women face, from doubts about their physical capability to the practical challenges of fieldwork environments that have never been designed with women in mind. Often the only woman on excavation teams, she has had to carve out space. Yet her presence is transformative: her visibility has inspired many of her former undergraduate students, particularly young women, to pursue postgraduate studies in paleontology. Her journey powerfully demonstrates that representation is not symbolic, it's catalytic. When women see someone who looks like them thriving in STEM, entire career pathways become imaginable. The episode culminates in a relatable message to young women across the continent: science is not distant or exclusive; it is present in everyday life, fueled by curiosity, resilience, and the stories we choose to tell about ourselves. Tune in for more.

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December 12, 2025

Dr Nonhlanhla Vilakazi – Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg – Unearthing the past for the future

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Dr Nonhlanhla Vilakazi who specialises in palaeo-herpetology and heritage management in the Zoology Department at the University of Johannesburg. Her work uncov...

In this episode of Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Darelle Van Greunen Director of the Centre for Community Technologies (CCT) at Nelson Mandela University, this year’s recipient of the Science Diplomacy for Africa Award. We explore how the CCT drives social development through smart, needs-driven technology in low-income communities. A Personal Journey to Purpose Professor van Greunen’s journey began in 1990, when she introduced one of South Africa’s first school computer literacy classes amid scarce resources. Her path — from teaching to leading global user experience at SAP Research — revealed the deep divide between tech creators and users, shaping her belief that technology must serve people, not the other way around. This conviction led to founding the CCT in 2014. Co-Creation and Community Impact The CCT builds solutions with communities, not for them. Needs-driven design: Teams spend time in the field listening, learning, and co-developing. Ownership and empowerment: Communities shape the design, language, and look of tools — making them “their solutions, not ours.” A powerful example is the School Health Assessment Tool, a mobile app that digitizes screenings for learners in rural Eastern Cape. It replaces paper forms, enables offline use, and has transformed care — even helping detect a child’s serious hearing issue early enough to change their learning journey. For Africa, By Africans Professor van Greunen champions the philosophy “ICT solutions for Africa, by Africans in Africa.” CCT designs tools adapted to Africa’s realities — from low connectivity to linguistic diversity. She stresses that technology designed elsewhere cannot simply be "copied and pasted" due to the continent's unique context, including intermittent connectivity, limited infrastructure, and linguistic/cultural diversity. Contextual relevance: Offline-first systems, visual and voice interfaces, and multilingual support. Respect for Behaviour: The aim is not to make people change their behavior to use a tool, but for the tool to adapt to the behaviour of the people.(part of in Africa, for Africa by Africans – design for inclusion of real people) Empowerment: Building local capacity and innovation instead of importing solutions. Opportunities for Women in Science Professor van Greunen believes it’s an exciting time for women in ICT — diversity is now seen as a strength. Yet, barriers remain: funding gaps, limited mentorship, and a weak school-to-industry pipeline. She calls for intentional ecosystems, targeted mentorship, and early confidence-building for girls in STEM. Legacy and Motivation Professor van Geunen's vision is for women to be seen not as an exception, but as an essential part of science. She hopes the next generation will lead research that transforms communities. For her, success equals impact—not titles or awards—and her desired legacy is one of hope and possibility for young women to dream and have an impact as scientists. Her final message to women is: "Don't wait for the moment. Create the moment. Don't wait for opportunity to knock on the door. You create the opportunity. Use your knowledge to make the world kinder, smarter and more just. never underestimate the power of your light as a woman” Tune in for more…

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November 13, 2025

Professor Darelle Van Greunen – Information Technology – Nelson Mandela University – Create Opportunity

In this episode of Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Darelle Van Greunen Director of the Centre for Community Technologies (CCT) at Nelson Mandela University, this year’s recipien...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr. Helen Nabwera, a paediatrician, physician-scientist, and global health leader whose work bridges clinical care, community empowerment, and pioneering research in maternal and child health. Currently based at Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya, she works in the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, the Centre of Excellence for Women and Child Health, the Co-PI PRETERM Africa Study, and is a Physician Scientist and MRC/FCDO African Research Leader. Dr. Nabwera shares her personal journey from growing up in rural western Kenya, where exposure to childhood illness and community hardship shaped her calling, to becoming a leading advocate for vulnerable newborns and a mentor to emerging researchers across Africa and beyond. She takes us through the heart of her work in preterm birth and early childhood development, highlighting the systemic and psychosocial factors that affect maternal and infant health in low-resource settings. Hear about her groundbreaking research on mother-to-mother peer support for families with low birth weight babies, and the vital role of nutrition in long-term child survival and development. She emphasizes that sustainable child health cannot be achieved through clinical care alone; it requires integrated community action, maternal wellbeing, and addressing societal misconceptions. We also explore Dr. Nabwera’s experience navigating the complexities of career, motherhood, cultural expectations, and leadership as a woman in science. She offers honest reflections on guilt, balance, and the importance of asking for help, while also advocating for structural changes in academic and research spaces to better support women’s advancement. Her thoughts on the role of culture, family, and resilience reveal a leader grounded in compassion and driven by purpose. Dr. Nabwera also pays tribute to key women in her life including her mother and fellow trailblazing scientists who inspired her journey and now fuel her mission to support the next generation. She leaves us with a powerful message to young women across the continent: “Find your inner peace—your dreams will emerge from there. An then you know you're going to get to where you need to get.” Whether you are in medicine, science, education, or simply navigating your path, this conversation with Dr. Nabwera is a moving testament to courage, humility, and impact. Tune in for more…

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July 24, 2025

Dr. Helen Nabwera – Paediatrics & Child Health – Aga Khan University – Network Growth

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr. Helen Nabwera, a paediatrician, physician-scientist, and global health leader whose work bridges clinical care, community empowerment, and pioneering rese...

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