Image: Dr Mandisa Msomi’s inspiring journey highlights the impact of mentorship, opportunity and lifelong learning.

Dr Mandisa Msomi’s journey began with a desire to make a meaningful contribution to society. Her interest in how information and digital technologies can improve service delivery, strengthen organisations and create opportunities for communities inspired her to pursue studies in Information Science, ultimately earning a Master’s degree and a PhD specialising in digital transformation, information governance, records management and digital health systems.

Dr Msomi joined NRF-SAASTA as a Monitoring and Evaluation Practitioner Intern during 2014–2015. Her role as an intern included monitoring and evaluation activities, collecting and analysing data, and assessing the impact of science engagement initiatives.

“The internship provided my first exposure to South Africa’s science, technology and innovation landscape and played a significant role in shaping my career path,” said Dr Msomi.

Some of the highlights of her time as a NRF-SAASTA intern included working closely with science centres across different provinces and participating in National Science Festivals and outreach programmes. Through these experiences, she was able to witness first-hand how science and innovation were being used to empower communities, particularly those in disadvantaged and underserved areas.

These experiences strengthened her appreciation for the important role science centres play in promoting scientific literacy, inspiring young people and creating opportunities for future generations.

Dr Msomi acknowledges the impact of mentorship during her internship, particularly the privilege of being mentored by Dr Anton Binneman (Manager: Science Communication and Engaged Research Division at NRF-SAASTA), whose guidance, professionalism and leadership had a profound influence on her personal and professional development.

“Through his mentorship, I learned the importance of critical thinking, striving for excellence and embracing continuous learning throughout one’s career,” added Dr Msomi.

One of her proudest achievements is completing her PhD in Information Science, as it represents years of hard work, perseverance and commitment to advancing knowledge in areas that have the potential to improve public services and organisational performance.

Like many professionals, Dr Msomi faced challenges in balancing work, academic studies and personal responsibilities. This required discipline, resilience and sacrifice. She was able to overcome these challenges through determination, mentorship, continuous learning and a strong belief in the value of education.

Over time, Dr Msomi has come to appreciate that science is not only about research and discovery; it is also about creating solutions, improving lives and contributing to social and economic development.

The story of Dr Mandisa Msomi serves as an example of how opportunities such as the NRF-SAASTA Internship Programme can provide young graduates with the foundation, exposure and mentorship needed to build meaningful careers and make lasting contributions to society.

As Dr Msomi puts it: “My NRF-SAASTA internship provided the foundation, mentorship and exposure that inspired my journey from a young graduate to a lecturer, researcher and leader committed to advancing science, innovation and societal development.”