Boitumelo Makgabutlane is a PhD Chemistry candidate at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). Currently working on the development of reinforcement nanocomposites from waste for application in the building and construction industry. She is passionate about beneficiating waste to useful products in order to move from linear to a circular economy; and has published some of her research work in peer-reviewed journals.

Boitumelo has co-founded an NPO called RockAtScience Foundation with the aim of demystifying Science by making it accessible and relatable to laypersons and learners especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Her drive is in giving back to the community, unearthing talents in order to alleviate poverty and improve the standard of living. She believes that everyone can reach their ultimate potential if someone has faith in them, and she is willing to be that someone who invests their time, resources and knowledge.