In celebration of Women's Month, we turn our attention to the exceptional achievements of Prof Vanessa Steenkamp, a true trailblazer in the field of traditional medicine research. As the Deputy Dean of Teaching & Learning at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, and a professor in Pharmacology within the School of Medicine, Prof Steenkamp's dedication and impact shine as a beacon of progress and empowerment.

Prof Steenkamp's journey is one of unwavering dedication and leadership. She holds registrations with esteemed organisations, including the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Medical Scientist, and dual registration as a Natural Scientist and Toxicologist with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), where she serves as Deputy Chair. Her active involvement extends to executive roles in prominent scientific organizations, such as President of the South African Association of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology (SASBCP), President of the Federation of South African Society of Pathology, and Vice-President of the Toxicology Society of South Africa.

Breaking barriers and making strides, Prof Steenkamp has made an enduring impact on her field. She made history by becoming the first woman president of the South African Association of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. Additionally, she is the founding president of the African Federation of Clinical Chemistry, a visionary organisation committed to advancing healthcare throughout the African continent. Her remarkable achievements and visionary leadership are propelling significant advancements in the realms of clinical chemistry and pharmacology across Africa.

Prof Steenkamp's influence reaches far beyond her home country. She serves as Vice Chair of the Education and Management Division of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC), becoming the first African representative to serve on the IFCC executive board. Her trailblazing spirit paves the way for global collaboration and progress in scientific realms.

Prof Steenkamp's research specialisation lies in traditional herbal medicine and toxicology. Her comprehensive approach encompasses pre-clinical tests for drugs targeting Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, exploring wound healing, antimicrobial treatments, and anti-cancer therapies. Her contributions to pharmacology are multi-dimensional and impactful, creating waves of positive change in the scientific community.

Prof Steenkamp's influence is not confined to her research. She has mentored numerous postdoctoral fellows and supervised over 70 postgraduate students to successful completion. Her guidance has propelled her students into both academia and industry, where they've assumed top managerial positions. As an active member of the Women in Science for the Developing World African Chapter, she remains committed to fostering the next generation of empowered women in science.

Prof Vanessa Steenkamp's journey is one of innovation, leadership, and dedication to traditional medicine research. As we celebrate Women's Month, her remarkable achievements stand as a testament to the power of women in science. Her legacy continues to inspire, ignite change, and pave the way for a future of progress and empowerment.