As we commemorate Women's Month, our "Women in Science" campaign proudly spotlights Dr. Maurine Rofhiwa Musie, who stands out as a dedicated researcher in midwifery. Recognised in the young scientist category, Dr. Musie, an early-career Midwife Specialist and Midwifery educator at the University of Pretoria, has displayed remarkable promise and innovative approaches in her field within the five years since completing her PhD. Her dedication to advancing maternal and child healthcare, research in indigenous midwifery collaboration, and contributions to policy development have significantly impacted the scientific community.

Dr. Musie, an esteemed Midwife Specialist and Midwifery lecturer at the University of Pretoria's Nursing Sciences Department, holds expertise in Maternal and Neonatal healthcare. Her research focuses on indigenous maternal health, respectful maternity care (RMC), prevention of mother-to-child transmission among marginalized communities, and introducing point-of-care midwifery education. She is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and continues to pursue innovative approaches to manage obstetrical emergencies and complications through continuing professional development (CPD) for midwives.

Throughout her career, Dr. Musie has demonstrated a passion for midwifery research, elevating the understanding of maternal and child healthcare. Her research in developing a framework for collaboration between indigenous midwifery and Western midwifery, along with evidenced-based approaches for midwifery, has advanced the frontiers of knowledge, expanding our understanding of maternal and child health.

Dr. Musie's contributions to midwifery have not gone unnoticed. Her numerous influential papers published in reputable scientific journals have solidified her position as a promising figure in her area of expertise. Beyond the realm of academia, her research has practical applications that benefit society as a whole, particularly in improving the health and well-being of mothers and infants.

Beyond her research accomplishments, Dr. Musie has proven herself to be an exemplary mentor and role model, especially for aspiring young women scientists. She recently graduated with PhD in Nursing Science, making her the youngest PhD recipient in the Nursing Sciences Department at the University of Pretoria. She has actively engaged in outreach programs, workshops, and talks to encourage and inspire the next generation of female scientists. Dr. Musie's advocacy extends to overcoming challenges in the male-dominated field of science, encouraging young women to pursue their passions fearlessly.

Driven by a commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Musie is currently engaged in a postdoctoral fellowship focused on developing an innovative hybrid training program for continuing professional development for midwives to manage obstetrical emergencies and complications. This project fosters policy development and involves collaborative efforts with researchers nationally and internationally, creating an enriching environment of cooperation and knowledge exchange within the scientific community.

Dr. Musie's achievements, leadership, and advocacy in the scientific realm have garnered widespread recognition. Appointed as the chairperson of the Qualitative Research and Data Analysis under the Research Support Hub at the University of Pretoria, she continues to make a mark on the academic landscape. Her involvement as a team leader for the "Nursing Now Challenge" global research study initiative, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and the International Council of Nurses, further cements her position as a change-maker in the field of midwifery.

Dr. Musie's dedication to fostering growth in the scientific community extends to her role as a mentor. She has supervised 6 Masters students to completion, with 3 students graduating in September 2023. Additionally, she is currently supervising 14 Masters students and 2 PhD students, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and research excellence. Her extensive research output includes 5 peer-reviewed journal publications and 1 book chapter, showcasing her commitment to sharing knowledge and advancing the field.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of women in science during this Women's Month, Dr. Maurine Rofhiwa Musie emerges as a true inspiration for young researchers. Her dedication, perseverance, and research work have left an indelible mark on the field of science, motivating countless individuals, especially young women, to pursue rewarding careers in STEM.

Dr. Musie's research in midwifery contributions and unwavering commitment to the field of science make her a shining star in the world of academia. With her achievements, leadership, and advocacy, Dr. Musie embodies the spirit of the "Women in Science" campaign, honoring early-career researchers who are reshaping the future of scientific exploration and making a positive impact on society.