In honour of Women’s Month, the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) proudly presents the Women of Impact Series. This series celebrates the outstanding achievements of our female graduates, partners, and project leaders in the Humanities and Social Sciences. We showcase the groundbreaking research, extraordinary dedication, and inspiring visions of these accomplished women. Through their innovative work and unwavering commitment, they have advanced in their respective fields and shaped a more inclusive and diverse future. Join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions and stories.
1. Can you please share a brief overview of your research and the significance of it in the HSS space?
My research examined and interrogated the weight hair carries for women of colour in post-apartheid South Africa. The theory, along with the practical performance, explored symbols, iconographic images, black feminists, and identity theory while employing theatrical elements such as surrealism and storytelling elements. The foundation of my thesis was taken from the South African fictional book Hair: Weaving & Unpicking Stories of Identity, which spoke about the different meaning of hair for black and brown women with different ages and social statuses.
2. How has funding and support from the NIHSS influenced your academic journey and personal growth?
Funding from the NIHSS allowed me the opportunity to pursue my masters. In doing so, the production took the National Arts Festival stage in 2023 and allowed me to perfect and refine the piece for final examination in August 2023. I am forever grateful to the NIHSS, as the production allowed myself and the Hairology team to grow as artists and academics.
3. What inspired you to pursue your Masters Degree and what challenges did you overcome during your academic journey?
Being the only coloured female in my honours class of 2021 gave me the ambition and drive to pursue my Masters, as I wanted to be part of the coloured females taking up more space in academic and creative spaces. I wanted to be the change I wanted to see.
4. What does the celebration of Women’s Month mean to you?
Women's Month is an opportunity to acknowledge the brave women who fought for women like me to be included in once-white, male-dominated spaces. It is also a reminder to keep on taking up more space until our voices are heard, validated, and appreciated.