Mandisa Jewel Simamane, 33, is a trailblazer in health sciences, specialising in biokinetics and exercise science at the University of the Witwatersrand. As course coordinator, she leads curriculum design, lectures, research supervision and health promotion initiatives. Her academic work focuses on integrating exercise into primary healthcare, advancing physical activity as a tool to combat non-communicable diseases. Her research contributions, paired with her leadership in global platforms like the International Society of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, reflect her commitment to advancing health, equity and academic excellence. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Wits Postgraduate Merit Award and NRF grants. Beyond academia, she is building the Dr Mandisa Simamane Foundation (Precious Jewels), an initiative empowering teen mothers through storytelling, mentorship and dialogue. Through upcoming projects, including a YouTube series and a book titled Different Kind of Struggle, she aims to break stigma and create safe spaces for young women.
Fellowships & Leadership Roles
- University College London and University of the Witwatersrand Public Voices Fellowship – Fellow in an initiative empowering underrepresented academic communities through training in media, communications and public policy to amplify diverse thought leadership across Africa and the UK.
- International Society of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity (ISBNPA): Young Adult SIG Leadership Committee Member – Leadership role focused on advancing interdisciplinary research in behavioural nutrition, physical activity and sedentary behaviour among young adults (ages 16–35), while fostering global collaboration and addressing research gaps.
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM): Member – member of the world’s largest sports medicine and exercise science organisation, contributing to a global community committed to promoting health through movement.
- African Studies Association (ASA), U.S.: Member and Emerging Scholars Network – active engagement in a network dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary scholarship and global understanding of Africa’s political, economic, cultural and environmental issues.
Awards and Scholarships
- International Diabetes Epidemiology Group (IDEG) Symposium Grant (2025) – recognition for academic potential in diabetes research and contribution to global academic dialogue.
- New Generation of Academics Programme & Wits Carnegie Diversifying the Academy – support for underrepresented academics focused on mentorship, representation and leadership development in higher education.
- National Research Foundation (NRF) Grants (BTech, Honours, Master’s, PhD) – prestigious multi-level academic funding enabling sustained progress and impactful research in health sciences.
- Golden Key International Honour Society – recognition for academic excellence and leadership, awarded to the top 15% of university achievers globally.
- Wits Postgraduate Merit Award -awarded for outstanding academic performance at postgraduate level.
- University Overall Diploma Top Achievers Award – University of Zululand – recognition for early academic distinction and promise during undergraduate studies.
From afar, I am deeply inspired by Dr Judy Dlamini, a renowned South African medical doctor, business leader, author, philanthropist and the current chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand. Her book “Equal But Different”, which chronicles the journeys of women in top leadership positions, profoundly shaped my outlook on life. It affirmed my belief that, with determination and purpose, anything is possible despite the obstacles that one has encountered. I have also had the privilege of being mentored by Professor Phillippe Gradidge and Professor Demitri Constantinou, also from the University of the Witwatersrand. Both are highly accomplished academics who serve and chair numerous national and international councils. Their mentorship has been instrumental in my growth, offering me access to impactful research and academic platforms. I am especially grateful for their unwavering belief in my potential — often before I fully believed in myself.