Growing up in the rural towns of Ledig and Mogwase in the North West, Kefilwe Mokwebo, 31, never imagined she’d one day be presenting cutting-edge research on global stages alongside Nobel Laureates. A postdoctoral research scientist at the University of Cape Town and the University of the Western Cape, Kefilwe’s work focuses on developing innovative nanomaterials for electrochemical sensors that address health and environmental issues. Her research contributes to achieving the sustainable development goals of clean water, better healthcare and environmental sustainability. Kefilwe has completed her PhD in chemistry, co-authored 15 peer-reviewed journal articles, co-supervised students and secured multiple fellowships, including the UMAPS Fellowship from the University of Michigan and the NRF Scarce Skills Postdoctoral Fellowship. She was also a recipient of the SACI–Sasol Postdoctoral Medal and co-inventor of a patent for a “Wireless Electrobipolar Reactor”. Representing South Africa at international platforms like the 74th Lindau Nobel Laureate Chemistry Meeting and the Brics Young Scientists Forum has sharpened her science communication and reinforced her commitment to collaboration.
I have several people whom I admire and who have shaped me into the person I am today. Firstly, my aunt, who became a mother to me and my brother after losing our own. She was already single-handedly raising her own three kids when she took us in. Although she was getting paid less than the current minimum wage, she made sure we never went to bed hungry and that we always had bus tickets and lunch money to go to school. She is a true Mbokodo! In my academic journey, I am fortunate to have had supportive teachers and lecturers who believe in my potential and have moulded me. One person who has been very influential in my career is my PhD supervisor, Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha. His leadership skills have demonstrated the power of innovation, empathy and uplifting women scientists in driving meaningful changes. He has always encouraged me to strive for excellence and provided constructive insight and feedback that helped shape me into the researcher I am. His mentorship has helped me step out of my comfort zone, embrace new challenges, seize opportunities and develop a strategic mindset. His unwavering belief in my potential has fuelled my determination for success and to be a catalyst for change and contribute meaningfully to my field and community. Prof Iwuoha is deeply committed to empowering young South African women scientists — many of whom, under his mentorship, have gone on to lead in their fields. I can only hope to follow in his footsteps and be that kind of mentor for the next generation of researchers. Another source of inspiration for me is Prof Usisipho Feleni. Her incredible work ethic and accomplishments at a young age have motivated me to aim higher and believe that similar success is within my reach.