Ms Pontsho Maruping

I am responsible for leading NRF-SARAO in the execution of its mandate. NRF-SARAO’s mission is to establish South Africa as a global leader in radio astronomy and associated technologies and disciplines by successfully hosting, and participating in the design and construction of the SKA telescope and other radio astronomy and geodesy facilities.

My primary responsibilities as the MD are to develop the strategy, resource the strategy and create an enabling environment for the many talented people at NRF-SARAO to achieve their goals and the goals of the organisation. This is done through fostering a positive organisational culture that encourages innovation, collaboration, and employee engagement, and also by tracking the progress towards goals and making adjustments as needed to ensure objectives are met.

I am also responsible for building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders and this involves effective communication and ensuring that all stakeholders’ interests are considered. Finally, I also act as the face of the organisation in external affairs such as the relationship with key stakeholders, e.g. the DSI and SKAO, in order to promote NRF-SARAO’s interests and protect its reputation.

I would like to think that what I contribute the most is pushing the innovation agenda, not only at NRF-SARAO but also across the whole of the NRF. I was brought in initially to establish the commercialisation division at NRF-SARAO. Over time, this has evolved to support innovation within the National Facilities and also develop mechanisms in support of the economic development of rural towns close to the telescope site in the Karroo.

What inspired you to become the leader that you are today?

Before joining NRF-SARAO, I had already occupied other senior roles.

When I joined NRF-SARAO more than eight years ago, it was primarily because I wanted to be part of something meaningful. This is not because of where I ended up but because of how much meaning being at NRF-SARAO has brought to my career. When the opportunity to become the Managing Director arose, I was initially hesitant but I also recognised that, given my leadership experience to date, it would be unwise not to at least apply for the position.

My first supervisory role happened very early in my career. No matter how much you observe other leaders who inspire you, when it comes to leadership, the biggest learning comes from the experience of leading and adaptation to what works and what does not work. I find that often, women, especially in male-dominated environments, shy away from stepping up but I have also been fortunate to have female leaders who have encouraged me to step up.

To this day, I believe that joining NRF-SARAO when I did was the best decision I ever made in my career. This personal sense of contributing to something bigger than myself, coupled with wanting to demonstrate what Africa can do, is probably what inspires me the most every day, especially when the going gets tough.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders?

Be brave! You can only hone your leadership abilities by stepping up. The rest depends on the environment. In STEM environments, it is most likely that it will be male-dominated and hence, most women feel a certain level of imposter syndrome where they doubt their capability. Do not fear the feeling but still go for it anyway. There are a multitude of resources to help you along the way, just be willing to ask.

Secondly, develop good networks where you can have access to experienced leaders that you can tap into. Not all networks need to be formalised. With the current tools, such as WhatsApp, it is much easier to maintain your network.  

Lastly, try not to take your leadership position too seriously.  Being a leader means that different people will experience you differently. It also means many people who do not even know you well will express their own opinions of you. Do not take it personally! You cannot be everyone’s cup of tea and that is okay, provided that you focus on leading with authenticity and good values.

Also, do not shrink yourself to try and fit in. Just be you; be enabling, supportive, empowering, strategic, visionary, solutions-focused, decisive, fa