Trailblazers: Wits School of Therapeutic Sciences Celebrates NRF-Rated Women Researchers!

Johannesburg, South Africa – In celebration of Women’s Month 2025, the University of the Witwatersrand’s School of Therapeutic Sciences (STHS) proudly launches Trailblazers: Beyond Therapeutics – Celebrating Women in Science at STHS, a commemorative eBooklet profiling the National Research Foundation (NRF) – rated women scientists in the STHS who are shaping the future of health sciences in South Africa.

The publication spotlights an exceptional cohort of 12 distinguished NRF-rated women scholars whose expertise spans the Departments of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Nursing Education, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, and Physiotherapy. Together, they represent a multigenerational, transdisciplinary body of scientists whose work is grounded in excellence, equity, and community impact.

“As a School we are proud to support the contribution of women in research, this investment is no doubt “a foundation for the future” said Professor Hellen Myezwa, Head of School (School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand).

“This project is more than a tribute; it is a bold statement of visibility, leadership, and legacy,” says Dr Gillian D. Mahumane, Project Lead. “These women are breaking new ground in research, policy, and mentorship, and they are reshaping the story of science in South Africa.”

The eBook captures the journeys, research highlights, and reflections of women who have made an indelible mark on their disciplines. From pioneering paediatric HIV research to advancing drug delivery innovations, their work addresses pressing health challenges while mentoring the next generation of scientists.

“The NRF is proud to stand alongside the Wits School of Therapeutic Sciences in celebrating the remarkable women researchers whose dedication to advancing knowledge and commitment to human well-being reflect the true essence of excellence and impact. As an organisation, we remain committed to the advancement of women researchers in order to bring about diversity in our cohort of researchers. This Women’s Month, we honour your contributions to knowledge generation, your service to society and your role in shaping a better, brighter future” said Dr Gugu Moche, Group Executive for Digital Transformation and Acting Deputy CEO: Research, Innovation, Impact Support and Advancement, NRF.

Beyond a commemorative publication, Trailblazers is positioned as a living resource, a platform to connect with leading women scientists in Therapeutic Sciences. It calls on collaborators, funders, and research partners to engage with these scholars, support their work, and champion initiatives that advance health innovation, gender equity, and scientific excellence in South Africa and beyond.

This initiative was conceptualised and executed by the STHS Marketing Committee Task Team, with contributions from:

• Dr Gillian D. Mahumane (Project Lead, Pharmacy)
• Mr Spha Msimang (Design and Production Lead)
• Mr Jabu Mahlangu (Web Integration, Pharmacology)
• Mrs Irene Janse van Noordwyk (Internal Communications)
• Ms Niyanta Rooplal (Content Proofing, Pharmacology)
• Mr Lebogang Phehla (Editorial Co-lead, Nursing Education)
• Dr Kholofelo Mashola (Editorial Co-lead, Physiotherapy)
• Dr Natalia Neophytou (Editorial Co-lead, Exercise Science and Sports Medicine)

Media Contact:

• Mr Bongani Nkosi (Media and Stakeholder Relations Officer, National Research Foundation – Corporate Communication) – b.nkosi@nrf.ac.za or +27 61 477 3064.

To collaborate with the featured Women and the STHS CLICK HERE or visit: https:// www.wits.ac.za/therapeuticsciences/

To access the eBooklet, CLICK HERE