Tag: Womeninleadership

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Stephanie Cawood, an interdisciplinary scholar and former Director of the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies at the University of the Free State. This conversation journeys into the intersections of African identity, feminism, education, leadership, memory, and social transformation Drawing from her experiences as a founding member and former director of the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies at the University of the Free State, Professor Cawood shares the personal and academic experiences that shaped her lifelong commitment to Africa-centred scholarship and gender justice. Originally founded in 2007 as the Centre for Africa Studies, the institution focused on postgraduate research and social justice scholarship relating to Africa’s politics, cultures, histories, and global relationships. Over time, gender studies became increasingly integrated into its work, leading to a formal repositioning of the centre to foreground both African and gender scholarship. A Childhood Spark that Grew into a Scholarly Mission Professor Cawood reflects on how her awareness of gender inequality began in childhood, long before she had the language to explain it. Growing up with a strong pride in being African, she recalls feeling uncomfortable when witnessing women being treated differently and recognising early on that inequality was deeply embedded in society. These formative experiences later evolved into a scholarly journey focused on both Africa Studies and Gender Studies. Two fields she describes as “cognate allies” because both challenge historical prejudices, inequalities, and inherited systems of exclusion. Breaking Academic Silos Through Interdisciplinary Thinking Professor Cawood describes herself as an “interdisciplinarian” and “epistemic traveller”; someone who crosses disciplines, methodologies, and intellectual boundaries in pursuit of deeper understanding. She shares how innovation often emerges when scholars move beyond traditional silos and embrace cross-disciplinary thinking. Professor Cawood explains that understanding how people create meaning in their lives requires insights from multiple fields including culture, memory, heritage, gender, geography, ecology, and politics. This openness to intellectual exploration has shaped her work on sacred sites, ecological memory, and spatial identity, all connected through what she describes as “pragmatic constructivism”, the idea of placing the body back into the environment and understanding human experiences within specific spatial and social contexts Leadership Rooted in Consensus and Humanity Reflecting on her years as director, Professor Cawood discusses her philosophy of leadership, inspired in part by her doctoral research on Nelson Mandela. She speaks about Mandela’s concept of leadership as “a shepherd leading from behind”; a style grounded in consensus-building, collaboration, and bringing people along rather than dominating them. The discussion explores the challenges of leading within academic environments that often remain highly masculine in structure and culture. Rather than adopting authoritarian approaches, Professor Cawood explains how she learned to strategically position ideas, build academic and business cases, and cultivate support for transformative institutional change. Under this leadership approach, the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies became one of the university’s most successful and productive research centres. Reframing Feminism in African Contexts In this conversation, we discuss African feminism and the complexities surrounding the term “feminist.” Defining feminism fundamentally as a belief in equality. However, Professor Cawood also explains why many younger African women remain hesitant to identify as feminists due to perceptions that feminism is Western, anti-men, or disconnected from African traditions and family structures. African feminist thought is diverse. It includes concepts such as womanism, motherism, and stiwanism; African-centred frameworks that emphasise complementarity, social transformation, culture, motherhood, and communal wellbeing. Rather than presenting feminism as a singular ideology, we highlight the richness and plurality of African feminisms, each shaped by different cultural and social realities across the continent. Importantly, Professor Cawood notes that many women already live deeply feminist lives through their actions, resilience, leadership, and agency, even if they do not use the term itself. Education as the Key to Gender Equality Turning toward global gender equality, the discussion references findings from the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, which estimates that economic and political gender parity remain generations away. Professor Cawood identifies education as the single most important intervention for accelerating gender equality, particularly ensuring equal educational access for girls across Africa. At the same time, she acknowledges the immense structural challenges facing the continent, including instability, insecurity, poverty, food insecurity, and conflict in regions such as the Sahel and the DRC. While education has transformative potential, sustainable change requires peace, stability, dignity, and coordinated continental responses. A Message of Integrity, Kindness and Hope Closing the conversation, Professor Cawood offers an inspiring message to girls and women across Africa. In a world often marked by division and uncertainty, she encourages listeners to remain grounded in integrity, kindness, tolerance, and respect; even when confronted by disagreement or adversity. Meaningful change begins when ordinary individuals consistently choose to do the right thing. Tune in for more…

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May 28, 2026

Prof Stephanie Cawood – former Director of the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies, University of the Free State – Mandelaism

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Stephanie Cawood, an interdisciplinary scholar and former Director of the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies at the University of the Free State. T...

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Prof Lee-Ann Sadè Modley, from the Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies at the University of Johannesburg. With a background spanning zoology, environmental management, sustainability, and community engagement, Prof. Modley shares her journey, shaped by perseverance, purpose, faith, her father’s soft persistence, and an unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for others. A major driving force throughout her journey was her father, who strongly believed in the transformative power of education. From her very first graduation, he continually encouraged her to pursue a doctorate, instilling in her the belief that education was not only a personal achievement but also a responsibility to uplift others in her community. Effective Solutions Require Stakeholder Buy-In One of the most pivotal moments in Prof. Modley’s career came while conducting water monitoring research in the Kaalspruit River in Tembisa. While scientists were focused on measuring pollution levels, she witnessed a resident casually throwing rubbish into the river. She realised that environmental science alone could never solve environmental problems without engaging the people living within those environments. The experience moved her from being purely laboratory and field-science focused into a more community-centred approach, where understanding human behaviour became just as important as understanding ecosystems. Prof. Modley explains how difficult this transition was for her as a “thoroughbred scientist,” but it ultimately taught her that sustainability depends on trust, participation, and community ownership. Building Trust in Communities Throughout the discussion, Prof. Modley shares insights from her work in communities such as Tembisa, Soweto, Eldorado Park, and rural Limpopo. Her projects focus heavily on water quality, water security, and environmental stewardship, but always through a collaborative lens. She highlights that, contrary to popular assumptions, communities often want to participate in environmental solutions. The challenge lies in building trust and ensuring people feel heard, respected, and included in decision-making processes. Rather than imposing solutions, her approach centres on co-creation, which includes asking communities what they believe will work best in their own environments. Communities are different. For example, in rural Limpopo, communities tend to see themselves as custodians of their water resources, protecting and preserving them collectively. In urban spaces, however, people frequently view environmental management as solely the government’s responsibility. Prof. Modley explains that one of the key challenges is helping communities reclaim a sense of ownership over their local environment. Climate Change Is Personal The conversation reinforces that climate change and environmental degradation are not distant abstract issues, they directly affect people’s homes, health, safety, and futures. Prof. Modley discusses how improper waste disposal and poor environmental practices contribute to flooding, water contamination, and worsening infrastructure problems. She advocates strongly for integrated water resource management, where everyone, from government and scientists to ordinary residents, plays a role in protecting water systems. Even small behavioural shifts, such as proper waste disposal, can collectively create meaningful environmental change. Empowering Girls Through Education and Mentorship Prof. Modley engages in several community initiatives, including the I Am Girls Programme and Eco Scouts. These initiatives aim to empower girls and young children through mentorship, environmental education, and personal development. Driven by her father’s vision of “lifting another girl up,” she invests her time in helping young women from underserved communities believe in broader possibilities for their lives. Her programmes seek to challenge cycles of poverty, substance abuse, and limited opportunities by changing mindsets and exposing girls to education, science, and leadership pathways. Making Science Accessible and Exciting Prof. Modley speaks passionately about changing perceptions around science careers, especially for girls from underrepresented communities. She notes that many learners are discouraged from pursuing science because it is viewed as difficult, inaccessible, or reserved for a select few. She actively works to make science feel exciting, relatable, and achievable by exposing learners to the university environment and demonstrating the diverse possibilities within scientific fields. Her mission is to show girls that science extends far beyond laboratories and microscopes; it can be creative, impactful, and transformative. Women Leading Sustainability Conversations As the discussion turns to gender, Prof. Modley reflects on her career experience. Interestingly, she describes how working in zoology often meant being treated equally to her male peers, which ultimately strengthened her confidence and resilience. Prof. Modley also opens up about balancing an intensive academic career with motherhood, marriage, and community engagement. She credits her strong support system, including her husband, extended family, and faith, for enabling her to pursue her ambitions while maintaining family stability. She believes women are increasingly leading sustainability conversations because of qualities such as empathy, collaboration, community-mindedness, and holistic thinking. Sustainability, she explains, is not only about ecosystems and data; it is also about people, relationships, and care. Her message to women entering the field is to be true to yourself. Women do not need to imitate men to succeed. Instead, their authentic perspectives and leadership styles are essential to building more sustainable futures. A Message of Limitless Possibility Drawing from her own experiences of being underestimated, Prof Modley encourages young women to view barriers and doubt as opportunities to prove what is possible: never allow other people’s limitations or labels to define your future. Tune in for more…

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May 8, 2026

Prof Lee-Ann Modley: Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg – Limitless Possibility

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Prof Lee-Ann Sadè Modley, from the Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies at the University of Johannesburg. With a background s...

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Thea Schoeman, Head of Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies at the University of Johannesburg. Dr Schoeman shares a powerful origin story rooted in intention. As a young student, she made a conscious decision that her work would always have real societal and environmental impact. This guiding principle led her from early research in ecotourism to pioneering work in waste management, a field that was largely under-researched in South Africa at the time, especially by women. Uncovering the Hidden Heroes: The Informal Waste Sector Waste is a major contributor to climate change, ranking third in methane emissions globally. Part of Dr Schoeman’s research delves into waste reclaimers, individuals who play a vital role in South Africa’s recycling ecosystem. She highlights: The economic and social challenges faced by waste pickers Their role as the “true recyclers” in society and the contribution they make to waste management The urgent need for recognition, fair compensation, and integration into formal waste systems Breaking Barriers: A Woman in Science Reflecting on her early career, Dr Schoeman candidly shares experiences of gender bias, including being told that waste research was “not suitable for women.” However, the landscape has shifted: Women now play a leading role in waste and environmental research Strong networks of female professionals provide mentorship and collaboration Representation is helping to reshape perceptions and open doors for future generations Her journey underscores the importance of resilience, recognition, and community support in building confidence and leadership. The episode shines a light on the rapidly growing green economy, presenting vast opportunities for women across disciplines. Leadership with Purpose: Building Inclusive Academic Spaces As a leader, Dr Schoeman embraces a transformational leadership style, focused on: Inspiring and motivating her team Creating a supportive and inclusive environment Prioritising mentorship for young academics She also highlights the complex realities students face in South Africa, encompassing financial, social, and emotional challenges, and the importance of holistic support systems. From mentoring programmes to psychological services, her department actively works to ensure that no student is left behind. Dr Schoeman doesn’t personally subscribe to conventional ideas of work-life balance, describing herself as deeply passionate and fully immersed in her work. She has a genuine love for what she does, a strong sense of purpose and curiosity and is committed to continuous learning and growth. Dr Schoeman’s closing words remind us that there is space for women in every field, especially in shaping a sustainable future. Tune in for more...

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April 29, 2026

Dr Thea Schoeman – HOD: Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg – Always On

This week on Womanity, Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Thea Schoeman, Head of Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies at the University of Johannesburg. Dr Schoeman shares a powerful...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with South African Ambassador Robina (Ruby) Marks, who has served as Ambassador to Thailand, Sri Lanka (with accreditation to Nepal, Maldives, and Bangladesh) and Benin. Her story is multifaceted. She shows how circumstances (political and social constructs), history, identity, and values intersect to forge a life of impact. She also reflects on the ability to reframe even the direst situations as learning experiences, “Things don’t happen to you; they happen for you.” A Childhood Shaped by Inequality Born during apartheid South Africa, Ambassador Marks grew up on the margins of privilege as the daughter of a domestic worker in Cape Town. Her early experiences, playing in the backspaces of homes where opportunity was reserved for whites, sparked a deep awareness of inequality and ignited a belief that a different future was possible. By the age of 13, her activism had begun, influenced not only by personal circumstances but by the broader socio-political landscape of the 1970s and 1980s. Key historical moments, from student uprisings to the rise of liberation movements, became the backdrop against which her political consciousness developed. Activism Reimagined in a Democratic South Africa With the advent of democracy in 1994, Ambassador Marks describes a profound shift, from resistance to responsibility. Activism was no longer about protest alone, but about translating ideals into policy and tangible change. She played a pioneering role as the first Chief Director for Gender at South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, ensuring that the fight for gender equality continued within institutional frameworks. Her journey highlights the importance of adapting activism to new contexts while staying rooted in core values. Values as a Compass for Leadership Ambassador Marks shares how, in the absence of positive role models in her community, she identified values in people that stood out for her and made her own composite. She attributes her resilience and direction to deeply ingrained values shaped by influential figures such as Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo, alongside strong women leaders and her mother. These values, integrity, humility, and justice, became her guiding force, enabling her to navigate transitions and redefine her role across different phases of her life. Even in diplomacy, she emphasises that representing a country begins with representing its moral fabric An Unexpected Path into Diplomacy Becoming an ambassador was never part of Ambassador Marks’ original plan. Growing up in apartheid South Africa, such a career seemed unimaginable. Yet her work in gender advocacy opened doors, eventually leading her to represent South Africa across Asia and Africa. She describes diplomacy as an extension of activism, one that requires balancing national interests with ethical responsibility. The role demanded not only technical expertise but a strong sense of identity, as “when people meet you, they meet your country.” Diplomatic Impact Across Continents Ambassador Marks shares powerful examples of her impact: Thailand: Successfully negotiated the lifting of a citrus import ban, unlocking millions in trade and improving livelihoods for South African farm workers. Sri Lanka: Contributed to reconciliation and peacebuilding efforts in a post-conflict society, while navigating the realities of diplomatic risk during periods of unrest. Benin: Facilitated an academic partnership with the University of KwaZulu-Natal, resulting in hundreds of graduates in agricultural sciences; strengthening both education and food security. These milestones reflect a consistent theme: diplomacy as a tool for economic empowerment, social cohesion, and long-term development. The Power of Soft Diplomacy and Storytelling Beyond formal diplomacy, Ambassador Marks has used storytelling as a transformative tool. She authored children’s books in local languages, both in Sri Lanka and Benin, to promote cultural identity, pride, historical awareness, and gender empowerment. Her book Girls We Can, inspired by the historic women warriors of Benin, aims to inspire young girls while challenging societal norms. Through language and narrative, she champions dignity, inclusion, and pride in one’s heritage. Lessons for the Next Generation Ambassador Marks offers deeply practical and philosophical advice for young women: Build self-belief: Confidence is foundational to pursuing any path. Say no strategically: Discipline and focus require rejecting distractions. Embrace fear: Opportunities for growth often lie in uncomfortable spaces. Define your own success: Success is personal and multifaceted. Be self-reliant: No one is coming to “rescue” you. Ownership of your journey is essential. She also highlights the importance of “falling forward”, transforming failures and hardships into lessons that propel growth. Turning Adversity into Strength One of the most profound reflections comes from her experience of detention during apartheid. Rather than allowing it to define her negatively, she reframed it as a source of resilience and self-discovery. Her philosophy is clear: nothing in life is wasted if you are willing to learn from it. Even the most difficult experiences can become catalysts for strength and purpose A Message of Possibility Closing the conversation, Ambassador Marks leaves us with a powerful reminder: you belong in spaces that may have historically excluded you. And once there, your responsibility is to open the door for others. Her journey, from the Cape Flats to global diplomacy and more, stands as living proof that transformation is possible, not only for individuals, but for societies. Tune in for more…

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April 10, 2026

South African Ambassador – Ruby Marks – Tenacity

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with South African Ambassador Robina (Ruby) Marks, who has served as Ambassador to Thailand, Sri Lanka (with accreditation to Nepal, Maldives, and Bangladesh) and B...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to the Ambassador of Sweden to South Africa, Anna Karin Eneström. With a distinguished diplomatic career spanning three decades, Ambassador Eneström has served in some of the world’s most influential global governance spaces, including the United Nations, the European Union, and senior leadership positions within the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Her journey, from aspiring courtroom lawyer to global diplomat, reveals how purpose, courage, and principled leadership can transform a personal career and influence international affairs. A Diplomatic Journey Shaped by Global Experience Ambassador Eneström reflects on formative milestones, such as her ambassadorship in Pakistan (covering Afghanistan), her tenure as Sweden’s Permanent Representative to the UN, and her posting in Kenya, which deepened her love for Africa and her commitment to multilateral cooperation. She shares invaluable leadership lessons from the UN system, emphasising listening, relationship-building, and international law as anchors for navigating diverse geopolitical positions. For progress in multicultural settings, it’s important to find points of commonality. Strengthening South Africa–Sweden Relations The conversation explores Ambassador Eneström’s priorities in South Africa: strengthening bilateral relations, supporting Swedish companies, championing multilateralism, and advancing Sweden’s substantial collaborations in education, research, and sexual and reproductive health and rights across the African continent. She 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. Addressing Gender-Based Violence in a Digital Age In recognition of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the ambassador addresses the alarming rise in digital violence against women, highlighting the responsibility of governments, tech companies, law-enforcement systems, and communities to ensure women's safety online and offline. She speaks candidly about the necessity of legislative action, accountability for perpetrators, and cross-gender solidarity in combating violence. Women as Architects of Peace Drawing on her extensive experience in conflict and post-conflict regions, Ambassador Eneström explores the vital role women play in peacebuilding, providing examples from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Liberia. She illustrates how women’s participation in peace negotiations and democratic processes significantly increases the sustainability and inclusivity of peace. Balancing Diplomacy and Family Life The interview also delves into the realities of combining a high-pressure diplomatic career with family life. Ambassador Eneström shares personal stories about raising her children across continents, navigating cultures, and achieving a balanced partnership within her family, offering honest and encouraging guidance to young women aspiring to careers in diplomacy and global leadership. Courage and Possibility We close with an uplifting message to women and girls: embrace who you are, dare to pursue your dreams, even when the path is uncertain, and remember that it is always possible to change direction and redefine your future. Tune in for more…

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November 28, 2025

Ambassador of Sweden to South Africa – Anna Karin Eneström – Courage and Possibility

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to the Ambassador of Sweden to South Africa, Anna Karin Eneström. With a distinguished diplomatic career spanning three decades, Ambassador Eneström has served in...

This Heritage Month we replay Vice President Nalumango’s conversation to celebrate women’s leadership and Africa’s rich cultural diversity, reminding us that education, unity, and empowerment are the foundations of our shared future in the continent. This week on Womanity-Women in Unity Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka talks to the Vice President of the Republic of Zambia – Mutale Nalumango, who is also Vice President of Zambia’s ruling party the  United Party for National Development (UPND). Vice President Nalumango shares how her life path has been navigated by the drive to fight all forms of injustice, like social inequity, poverty alleviation, access to justice and empowering women to occupy their rightful spaces. She shares some of her visions for Zambia where unity and peace serve as foundational elements to development and productivity. She also reaffirms that education is the greatest equalizer and reminds those that think education is too expensive to try the cost of ignorance. We discuss women in leadership and mechanisms to better capacitate women, such as mentorship, effective networking, higher education, encouraging women to rise and also aligning men to the gender agenda – to acknowledge that they are beneficiaries of women’s economic participation. Although efforts are underway to progress the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 5 – Gender Equality progress is slow in some areas of the continent. Some of the impediments to women’s progress include inhibiting cultures, religious expectations, social stereotypes and bearing the burden of unpaid domestic work. In the words of Vice President Nalumango, “Women are born as volunteers.” Women need to unite and collectively fight against injustices that discriminate against them. Women cannot let their life choices depend on other people; they have the capability to achieve their ambitions. In closing, Vice President Nalumango says, “Girls, rise up wherever you are, the sky is the limit, you can make it anywhere, everything is open to us in Africa”. Tune in for more…

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September 18, 2025

Vice President of Zambia – Mutale Nalumango striving for social justice, unity and equality

This Heritage Month we replay Vice President Nalumango’s conversation to celebrate women’s leadership and Africa’s rich cultural diversity, reminding us that education, unity, and empowerment are the foundations of...

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sarah Babb, she is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science, and co-founder and MD of Stimm. Dr. Babb’s passion for leading change through complexity began during South Africa’s democratic transition, where her involvement in student politics ignited a passion for justice, equality, and systemic change. Drawing on over 25 years of experience across academia, business, and social impact, she reflects on how women continue to navigate leadership in a world that grows ever more complex. Despite representing 50% of the population and 46% of its workforce, too few women are occupying top positions in business. Statistics from a 2023 report of the top 40 JSE listed companies shows that only 10% of CEOs were women, only 25% of executive roles and 35% of board positions are held by women. Dr Babb unpacks the persistent gender gaps that hold women back from executive positions, ranging from entrenched stereotypes of “male” leadership to unpaid care work, to the confidence shaking effects of imposter syndrome. Yet she highlights how women’s natural strengths like empathy, collaboration, and human connection are increasingly vital in workplaces driven by AI, digital transformation, and global disruption. The conversation also illuminates a lesser-discussed gender dimension: neurodivergence in women. Dr. Babb explains how girls and women are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to masking behaviours and diagnostic biases, delaying recognition of conditions such as ADHD, autism, or dyslexia. Whilst these conditions can challenge affected individuals because they deviate from mainstream expectations, neurodiverse individuals bring unique strengths, sometimes in creativity, deep problem-solving, innovation, and resilience, which can enrich teams and organizations. From her own late ADHD diagnosis to the inspiration of her mother and grandmother, trailblazing women who carved new paths in restrictive times, Dr. Babb’s story is deeply personal and profoundly motivating. She calls on women to continually reinvent themselves, support one another in breaking glass ceilings, and claim their space in building workplaces and societies that are both digitally advanced and humanity-centred. Her closing message to women and girls everywhere is one of determination and hope: “Don’t give up. Keep stepping into the new version of your shiniest, noblest self; because there’s always more.” Tune in for more…

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September 5, 2025

Dr Sarah Babb – Adjunct Faculty GIBS – Self-Reinvention

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sarah Babb, she is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science, and co-founder and MD of Stimm. Dr. Ba...

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, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Adre Minnaar-Ontong, a leading molecular plant breeder and the Head of the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of the Free State. With over 16 years of experience in sustainable agriculture and crop science, Professor Minnaar-Ontong shares how her journey into plant breeding was sparked by an unexpected aptitude test that redirected her from medicine to agriculture; an industry she has since transformed through science and leadership. Professor Minnaar-Ontong demystifies the world of molecular breeding, explaining how it differs from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and how it accelerates the development of resilient, disease-resistant crops. Her research is a critical response to South Africa’s rising food insecurity, and her efforts contribute to lower production costs, healthier soils, and more sustainable food systems. She discusses the role of universities in addressing Africa’s agricultural challenges, bridging the gap between academia and industry, and promoting food sovereignty. More than scientific breakthroughs, Prof. Minnaar-Ontong is proudest of her impact on people. She shares stories of former students now working globally in agriculture, emphasizing the transformative power of mentorship. For her, the true legacy of academia lies in building confident, capable scientists who can solve real-world problems. Prof. Minnaar-Ontong opens up about being a woman in a male-dominated industry, confronting stereotypes in the field, sometimes literally, like being mistaken for a secretary on a research visit—and how she used those moments to prove her expertise. She emphasises  the importance of mentorship, resilience, and speaking up with confidence. She reflects on the power of inclusive academic platforms like WISE (Women Influencing Scholarship and Education) that supports other women to rise, balance careers and family life, and step confidently into leadership roles. As the mother of two daughters and a mentor to many, Prof. Minnaar-Ontong’s vision for African women in science is clear: leadership, visibility, and empowerment. Her closing message is filled with encouragement: "You don’t need magic to change the world; you are already equipped with all the power need within yourself." Tune in for more...

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July 31, 2025

Professor Adre Minnaar-Ontong – Head of Plant Sciences – University of the Free State – Sustainability

This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Adre Minnaar-Ontong, a leading molecular plant breeder and the Head of the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of the Free State. With ov...

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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