she concludes. “My journey has been affected by many people in different yet valuable ways, especially by my late mother, who unfailingly prioritised my wellbeing. She created a space for me to use the world as laboratory where I could experiment with different ideas and models of life.” DLitt et Phil (Philosophy), 2017
a consultant at Redhill School in Johannesburg, which runs a project on philosophy for children.” Tshivase plays multiple roles across numerous education institutions and levels of society, but she’s tempered with a deep humility and awareness of others. “I have humbly learned not to plan for the future, as tomorrow is a mystery that will only become known to me when it manifests,” most teachers at the time had Bachelor of Education degrees. Nomngongo started off life in a small town in the Eastern Cape called Flagstaff, but today she is one of the leading young Black female researchers in the field of science and technology at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), with a specialisation in the fields of analytical and environmental chemistry, nanotechnology, and medical geology. She is a recipient of many awards, including the most promising researcher of the year at UJ, L’Oréal-Unesco’s Women in Science award, and an award from the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World. Nomngongo remembers being drawn specifically to the field of analytical chemistry because it gives her free rein to flex her creative muscles as she can explore the chemical and quality composition of anything – from food to the particles used in children’s toys – and break all of it down to its natural parts.
intersects with her other research themes of feminism, love, death, authenticity, and autonomy, among others. “I also have an interest in exploring the ontological status of Blackness,” says Tshivase. “I am a guardian to a group of students who form an executive committee of the Faculty House in Humanities, an academic mentor for some students on the Student Representative Council, and I am
DR PHILISWA NOMNGONGO Associate Professor University of Johannesburg
Her work also allows her to be intentional about developing young scientists and empowering young Black females from disadvantaged backgrounds through teaching and learning. This includes community projects for rural formally disadvantaged schools by providing teaching, training and participation in national science expo to promote Stem careers. Nomngongo understands that for young scientists to flourish, they need an environment that is open and accessible, and is committed to helping them succeed. She tries to do this for the students she supervises: “It’s important for supervisors to take the time to understand the students they are working with or training, so that you do not make assumptions. This understanding allows them not to be scared and to do the work in a respectful, friendly and comfortable environment,” she says. PhD Chemistry, 2013
In reflecting on what led her to embark on a career in the science, technology, engineering, and maths (Stem) fields, associate professor Philiswa Nomngongo credits her school teacher, who had a BSc qualification. This was the first person with a BSc that Nomngongo had ever met, and she was intrigued with what it was and what possibilities it came with, particularly because
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