Two North-West University (NWU) researchers have received national recognition for work that could contribute to safer water, healthier honeybees and stronger communities.
Rebaone Mofokeng and Nolwandle Khumalo were awarded the DSTI-Prof. Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships at the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards on 20 August 2026. Rebaone received the Master’s Fellowship, while Nolwandle received the Doctoral Fellowship.
For Rebaone, the award is recognition of a research journey built on perseverance and support.
“More than an award, I see this fellowship as an affirmation of my potential as a young scientist and a reminder to continue pursuing research that can make a meaningful difference,” she said.
Her master’s research investigates the diversity and abundance of yeast communities in groundwater sources in Mahikeng and their possible public health impact.
Rebaone became interested in the field during her honours studies in 2023. Her work showed her that yeasts are often overlooked in water-quality monitoring, which tends to focus on bacteria. Some yeasts can, however, be opportunistic and potentially harmful.
Her research aims to provide knowledge that could strengthen microbial water-quality monitoring and support safer drinking-water practices, especially in communities that depend on groundwater.
Rebaone hopes the fellowship will help her develop her research and technical skills. She plans to pursue a PhD and build expertise in environmental genomics, with a focus on microbiology, water quality and public health.
Nolwandle’s doctoral research focuses on honeybee health. She studies the relationship between African savannah honeybees, their diets and the microorganisms found in their guts. Her findings show that diet affects the diversity and composition of gut microbiota. Some microbes acquired through diet may assist with digestion, nutrient absorption and carbohydrate metabolism.
For Nolwandle, the fellowship also provides support as she works towards completing her PhD.
“I feel incredibly honoured and grateful. Personally, it is a reminder that years of hard work, perseverance, and challenges throughout my PhD journey have not gone unnoticed,” she said.
She hopes to build a career that combines research with science communication. Nolwandle believes scientific knowledge should reach beyond laboratories and academic spaces to the communities it is meant to benefit.
Her message to young women considering careers in science is to claim their place.
“Do not let your circumstances or self-doubt convince you that you do not belong. Take up space within this environment and do so confidently. Find your anchors, seek opportunities and, most importantly, have passion and love for what you do,” she said.
The two fellowships recognise researchers at different stages of their postgraduate journeys, while supporting work with potential value for public health, environmental research and sustainable agriculture.
NWU researchers Rebaone Mofokeng and Nolwandle Khumalo received the DSTI-Prof. Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Master’s and Doctoral Fellowships, respectively, at the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards.
