Seeing successful women in science overcome challenges provided Richards Bay’s Ms Noxolo Ndlazi with encouragement and a sense of possibility, enabling her to graduate with a Master’s degree in Genetics from UKZN.

Ndlazi’s motivation to pursue an MSc stemmed from UKZN’s reputation for strong research programmes, access to quality education and world-class facilities.

‘The availability of scholarships and financial aid at the University was an added plus as well as the prospect of enhanced employability, and financial and professional empowerment once I had a postgraduate qualification under my belt.’

Supervised by Dr Lwamkelekile Mkize and Professor Oliver Zishiri, Ndlazi’s dissertation was titled: “Genetic Analysis and Antimicrobial Resistance in Salmonella Species Isolated from Meat and Environmental Samples in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa”.

Her research focused on understanding bacteria, scanning for antimicrobial susceptibility (i.e. understanding how effective these antimicrobials are against such bacteria), and preventing resistance by finding the right medicine.

‘Bacterial research and antimicrobial susceptibility are vital for understanding how to fight infections effectively, ensuring that our treatments remain effective and protect public health,’ she said. ‘My research provided some understanding of how this happens and how to prevent it, ensuring that antimicrobials remain effective.’

Ndlazi was motivated by her strong interest in scientific research. Her natural curiosity and a desire to solve local challenges in her community of eNseleni led her to tackle the issue of bacterial infections from food purchased from local retailers and farmers.

‘I aimed to improve and validate methods of bacterial screening and detection as well as test anti-microbial resistance to recommend effective concentrations. I have a strong desire to give back to my community by addressing local health issues and agricultural concerns.’

Ndlazi’s research is significant: identifying bacterial contamination in food ensures that food supplies are safe for consumption, an issue that is crucial for public health. Moreover, understanding antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns in bacteria from food can inform health guidelines and policies; and regular monitoring of food sources aids in early detection of potential outbreaks, enabling timely intervention and prevention strategies.

‘Research findings can educate consumers about the risks associated with certain foods, guiding them to make safer choices,’ said Ndlazi. ‘The results of such scientific studies support regulatory bodies in establishing safe food practices and standards, leading to health improvements by ensuring food safety and reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses.

‘Additionally, local farmers can benefit from this research by adopting best practices that minimise bacterial contamination and AMR development, thus enhancing food quality and safety. Insights gained from local studies also contribute to global discussions on food safety and antimicrobial resistance, influencing policies worldwide.

‘Scientific research on bacteria and antimicrobial resistance in food not only protects public health but also fosters community empowerment and advances the scientific discipline. It represents a crucial intersection of health, agriculture and social responsibility,’ she said.

Ndlazi, currently working as a Forensic Analyst at the Forensic Sciences laboratory (FSL), has her sights set on a PhD and a career in research – either at a research institution, university or the private sector – focusing on critical issues such as public health, agriculture and environmental science. She is also interested in lecturing and in promoting STEM to young women and underrepresented groups.

‘I believed achieving my dreams was possible, which motivated me to dream big and strive to become the best version of myself,’ she said. ‘I have always aspired to be a role model for the younger generation within my family and community.

‘I would like to encourage young individuals to pursue their dreams, and to understand that their dreams and ideas hold value. It is also important to emphasise the significance of education, as it is one of the things that no one can take away from you.’

Ndlazi said her family played a significant role in her development, and that her faith was the foundation of her life.

She shared her favourite verse from the Bible, Deuteronomy 31:6: ‘Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified by them, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.’

Words: Sally Frost

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini