In celebration of Women’s Month 2025, the National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) proudly continues its Women of Impact series, honouring the remarkable women shaping South Africa and the world through knowledge, research, leadership, and care.

1. How is your work shaping a better future through the Humanities and Social Sciences?

By focusing on child health, nutrition, and wellbeing, my work highlights the urgent need to invest in children from the earliest years. This contributes to building a society that values equity, justice, and dignity for all. My research also brings visibility to the voices of marginalized families, showing how social and economic factors influence child outcomes and proposing solutions that strengthen support systems.

2. What drives your passion, and what change do you hope to create?

My passion is driven by my deep belief that every child deserves to grow up healthy, safe, And nurtured. As a woman and a mother, I understand both the joys and the struggles of Caregiving. The change I hope to create is a South Africa where every child has access to at least three nutritious meals a day, where safe and quality early childhood development centres are available to all, and where families feel supported in their caregiving roles.

3. What does the celebration of Women’s Month mean to you?

The celebration of Women’s Month is a reminder of the resilience, strength, and contributions of women in shaping families, communities, and nations. For me, it is an opportunity to honour the multiple caregiving roles that women take on daily, both in the home and in the workplace, often under challenging circumstances. It is also a time to reflect on the struggles that women continue to face, be it poverty, gender inequality, or the burden of care, and to recognize their tireless efforts in ensuring the wellbeing of children and families.