From the touch pools of the Two Oceans Aquarium to the pathogen labs at Stellenbosch University, Jana Schreuder, 25, has always found herself where curios- ity meets purpose. Raised in a tech-savvy household in Cape Town, Jana’s early passions ranged from marine biology to art. A bursary from the South African Association for Food Science & Technology launched her into the world of food science. Jana is pursuing a PhD in food science. Her research focuses on using near-infrared spectroscopy and chemometric modelling to detect Listeria monocytogenes, the deadly foodborne pathogen linked to South Africa’s 2018 listeriosis outbreak. Beyond the lab, Jana is making global waves. She is the first non-US-based president of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Student Association and serves on the IFT board — roles that have seen her represent young scientists across continents, from Chicago to Stellenbosch. With mentors ranging from Paralympic gold medallist Charl du Toit to inspiring teachers and family, Jana credits her resilience to one thing: stubbornness. It’s what fuels her to keep chasing answers, pushing boundaries and forging paths that don’t yet exist.
Many people have shaped this journey by encouraging applications for new opportunities, building confidence and nurturing a passion for leadership and science. These include Professor Gunnar Sigge, Dr Lynn Hoffman, Professor Louwrens Hoffman, my parents and my grandparents. The greatest inspiration, supporter and mentor is my partner, Philip. Two individuals from high school also had a lasting influence:
- Charl du Toit, Paralympic gold medallist and athletics coach in grades 11 and 12, demonstrated the importance of self-discipline and maintaining a positive mindset, even during difficult times.
- Clarisa Steyn, the passionate science teacher at Bloemhof Girls’ High School, made science exciting and inspired a decision to pursue it as a career.