Tag: STEM

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Kaylin du Plessis, a veterinarian at the Pretoria Zoo whose work combines exotic animal medicine, complex surgery, conservation, and compassion. From the outset, Dr du Plessis reveals that her journey into veterinary science was driven by a childhood love of animals and a deeper calling to advocate for beings who cannot speak for themselves. This sense of purpose has shaped a career defined by resilience, precision, and an unwavering commitment to animal welfare, particularly within the highly specialised and demanding world of exotic veterinary medicine. Inside the World of Exotic Animals Dr du Plessis unpacks what “exotic” truly means, clarifying the distinction between domestic animals, wildlife, and non-native species. From primates, wild cats, antelope and birds to reptiles, crocodilians, fish, and even venomous snakes, her work spans an extraordinary diversity of species, each with its own anatomy, physiology, behavioural traits, and medical risks. She explains why surgery on exotic animals is vastly different from domestic practice: tiny, fragile patients; highly sensitive responses to anaesthesia; slow healing processes; specialised equipment; and the ever-present risk of stress-induced complications. In this world, there is no formula—every case is handled individually, with meticulous attention to detail. Memorable Cases and Life-Saving Decisions The interview brings listeners into the operating theatre through unforgettable cases: A red kangaroo saved after the removal of a massive cancerous tumour once deemed inoperable A lioness brought back from the brink after emergency surgery for a life-threatening uterine infection A Cape vulture revived through swift tele-guided intervention Surgeries on a gorilla, gibbon, capuchin, and even a forest cobra with facial cancer These moments underscore a powerful philosophy that defines Dr du Plessis’s work: every life deserves a chance, regardless of species, size, or public perception. The Hidden Realities of Veterinary Medicine Beyond the remarkable cases, Dr du Plessis speaks candidly about the less glamorous realities of the profession, such as its emotional toll, physical demands, financial pressures, and exposure to zoonotic diseases such as tuberculosis. She highlights the importance of emotional resilience and support in a field where burnout is common. She also addresses widespread misconceptions about owning exotic pets, warning that they are neither low-maintenance nor inexpensive, and that many animals suffer due to inadequate knowledge, improper care, and delayed medical attention. Women, Science, and Breaking Stereotypes As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated and physically demanding field, Dr du Plessis reflects on gender bias, recounting moments where her expertise was questioned simply because she is female. Rather than deterring her, these experiences strengthened her resolve—fuelling a career built on competence, discipline, and consistency. She speaks passionately about the growing opportunities for women in exotic medicine, conservation, research, academia, and zoo practice, and emphasises that empathy, communication, and attention to detail are strengths—not weaknesses—in veterinary science. Balancing Career, Motherhood, and Identity One of the most resonant parts of the conversation is Dr du Plessis’s honest reflection on motherhood and work. Rejecting the myth of perfect balance, she reframes success as finding fulfilment in both career and family, supported by boundaries, self-care, and strong support systems. “Recharge is not a luxury,” she reminds listeners; it is a necessity. Perseverance, Mentorship, and Purpose Dr du Plessis shares her own story of perseverance, initially failing to gain entry into veterinary school, persisting through years of study, and succeeding against steep odds in one of South Africa’s most competitive academic fields. She highlights the importance of mentors, community, and choosing the right tribe, as well as contributing to the global knowledge base through research and publishing. A Message to Women and Girls Closing the conversation, Dr du Plessis delivers a powerful message to women across the continent: You belong in science. You belong in medicine. You belong in specialised fields. Success may not follow a straight line, but with discipline, curiosity, and belief in yourself, it is achievable. Tune in for more

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February 13, 2026

Dr Kaylin Du Plessis – Exotic Vet: Pretoria Zoo – Limitless

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Kaylin du Plessis, a veterinarian at the Pretoria Zoo whose work combines exotic animal medicine, complex surgery, conservation, and compassion. From the...

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, ...

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...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Priscilla Baker from the Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of Western Cape. She holds the South African Research Chair for Analytical Systems and Processes for Priority and Emerging Contaminants (ASPPEC) and is co-director of multiple prestigious research platforms including SensorLab and Synergy Lab, and the director of the Nano Micro Manufacturing Facility. This year, she was awarded the 2025 L’Oreal UNESCO Laureate for Africa and the Arab States. The conversation opens with a reflection on one of her early quotes: “Nobody gives you opportunities; they present themselves to you, and it's up to you to see them and seize them.” This sentiment has shaped a career defined by self-initiative, strategic thinking, and a determination to create opportunity not only for herself, but for generations of scientists to come. Early Foundations: From Oceanography to Analytical Chemistry Professor Baker recounts her educational journey, navigating life choices in the latter years of apartheid in South Africa, a time of deep political unrest and educational disruption. She describes how, despite being a “C-average” student, she was accepted into UCT, where she originally studied physical oceanography and pivoted into analytical chemistry. Her story underscores the importance of allowing young people to evolve academically, and of creating space for non-linear career paths in STEM. The Power of Focused Excellence At the core of Professor Baker’s work is a deep belief in pursuing excellence with a niche specialisation. For Prof. Baker, it’s analytical chemistry. This discipline intersects with manufacturing, health, water quality, food safety, and climate science. She emphasizes that her work is not simply about scientific discovery, but about translating science into practical tools that improve people’s lives, particularly in resource-constrained communities. Her philosophy of science is rooted in service, ethics, integrity, and impact. On Winning the L'Oréal-UNESCO Award Receiving the L'Oréal-UNESCO Award (from approximately 500 nominees) was a deeply humbling moment for Professor Baker. She sees the award not as an endpoint but as a platform to inspire others, elevate African science on the global stage, and reaffirm that excellence can come from anywhere when purpose meets preparation. It’s not the trophy itself, she says, but the journey, the sacrifices, and the support of her university, mentors, and family that made the moment so meaningful. Mentorship, Legacy & Women in STEM A passionate mentor, Professor Baker has invested decades in shaping the next generation of scientists. She offers grounded and nuanced advice to young women in STEM: follow your passion, but understand that passions shift over time, and that’s okay. Balance motherhood and ambition, reflect often, and always be building towards a purposeful legacy. She cautions against chasing fame or fast success, reminding listeners that the most enduring achievements are rooted in discipline, patience, and service. She also speaks candidly about the importance of not exploiting gender-based opportunities, but rather stepping into them with accountability and impact. “Make it count,” she says, because how we use these opportunities now will shape what’s possible for generations of women after us. Tune in for more…

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August 8, 2025

Professor Priscilla Baker – Analytical Chemistry – University of the Western Cape – Opportunities

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Priscilla Baker from the Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of Western Cape. She holds the South African R...

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Resia Pretorius, Department Head and Distinguished Research Professor in the Physiological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, at Stellenbosch University. She is also an Honorary Professor at the University of Liverpool. Additionally, she is Managing Director of BioCODE Technologies. Prof. Pretorius highlights the diverse research areas in her department that focus on a variety of illnesses and methodologies to study various conditions and identify solutions for them. Prof. Pretorius’s research centres on blood and blood related diseases, and more recently on clotting pathology in patients with Covid and long-Covid. We discuss the commercialisation of research and innovations at universities, acknowledging access to resources from a variety of institutional disciplines to support development, whether it be legal advice for patents or business skills to operate companies. For example, BioCODE Technologies, a spin of company of the University of Stellenbosch develops point-of-care smart sensing solutions that detect novel circulating inflammatory molecules in the blood. BioCODE also provides a place for students to have their first experience in industry and prepare them for the external job market. Women are making an impact in STEM, notably in physiological sciences. Although they may be equipped with the skills and capabilities they need access to opportunities to realise their full potential. To help women on their career paths Prof. Pretorius advises seeking out a mentor that is in or near your field of interest for support, direction and networking; she also recommends learning how to market yourself and speak the language of your prospective employer; going for interview training to present and sell yourself and create demand for your skills and services with a potential employer. In closing Prof. Pretorius reflects on the value of keeping an open mind, “to join the dots” in new ways and derive new outcomes. She also embodies that sentiment that if you find your passion and make it your vocation you will never “work” a day in your life, because you enjoy what you are doing. Tune in for more…

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March 8, 2023

Prof. Resia Pretorius – Head Physiological Sciences – Stellenbosch University

This week on Womanity-Women in Unity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to Professor Resia Pretorius, Department Head and Distinguished Research Professor in the Physiological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, at S...

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