As we celebrate Women’s Month, it is essential to recognise the remarkable contributions of women in science and academia. Prof. Annatjie van der Wath, a distinguished researcher and leader in the Department of Nursing at the University of Pretoria, exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated mentorship and groundbreaking research can have on the nursing profession. Her journey in nursing research, her commitment to mentoring emerging scholars, and her insights into the evolving field of nursing make her a true inspiration.

Prof. van der Wath’s journey into nursing research was driven by her deep concern for the challenges faced by nurses in the workplace. "I am a nurse at heart and am concerned about the workplace challenges nurses face," she shares. Through her research, she has created awareness about the vulnerability of nurses to burnout and moral distress, while also offering recommendations to address these issues. Her passion for research is fueled by the hope that every project ending with positive recommendations can make a meaningful difference, inspiring her to embark on the next challenge.

Focusing primarily on mental health nursing, Prof. van der Wath has led several key research projects that have significantly impacted the field. Her work has spanned diverse areas, including improving care for patients with intellectual disabilities, enhancing discharge planning, and providing psychoeducation for families of mental health care users. Additionally, her research has empowered nurses to better care for victims of gender-based violence, underscoring her commitment to addressing critical issues within the healthcare system.

Mentoring has been a cornerstone of Prof. van der Wath’s career, and she approaches it with a selfless dedication. "Mentoring entails giving a part of yourself and your time to others without expecting anything back in return," she says. The appreciation she receives from her mentees, whether it's through shared knowledge or guidance, serves as a powerful motivator. She emphasises the importance of leaving a positive impression, knowing that the support she offers can have a lasting impact on her mentees' careers.

Prof. van der Wath’s approach to supervising PhD students is deeply rooted in understanding their motivations and providing consistent, empathetic support. She stresses the importance of regular contact and prompt feedback, as these are crucial for maintaining momentum in the students' research journeys. By working with enthusiasm, she finds that her students often mirror her energy, which drives them to achieve their goals. Her belief is that consistent submission of work and constructive feedback are key to completing a successful thesis.

For Prof. van der Wath, research and supervision are intrinsically linked. She views the completion of postgraduate studies as an integral part of her research focus. Mentoring co-supervisors is seamlessly integrated into her routine, as she engages them in the supervisory process, allowing them to learn and contribute. By keeping an open door and offering mentorship as needed, she fosters a supportive environment where new supervisors feel comfortable seeking guidance.

One PhD project that stands out for Prof. van der Wath was led by a student who exhibited remarkable perseverance and passion. This student, driven by a desire to improve care for women with infertility in her home country, completed her thesis in just two years. Her dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence made this project particularly memorable for Prof. van der Wath.

The constant pressure to succeed and complete postgraduate studies is a reality in the Department of Nursing Science. Prof. van der Wath acknowledges the stress that comes with this responsibility but finds ways to manage it by staying on top of student submissions and offering on-the-spot supervision when needed. The department’s culture of mutual support among colleagues helps them navigate the challenges together, sharing both the highs and lows.

The Evolution of Nursing Research

Throughout her career, Prof. van der Wath has witnessed significant growth in the field of nursing research. She has seen a shift towards more impactful research projects and a greater emphasis on publishing and securing grants. Group supervision, writing retreats, and mentoring through co-supervision have become more common, fostering a collaborative and supportive research environment.

To those just starting their journey in nursing research, Prof. van der Wath offers sage advice: perseverance and persistence are key. Success in nursing research is often driven by a deep love for the profession and a commitment to improving patient care. She emphasises the importance of having strong social support systems, as these can significantly impact the completion of a PhD.

As we celebrate Women’s Month, Prof. van der Wath reflects on the importance of mentorship and support for women in academia. She acknowledges the sacrifices women often make to achieve academic success and emphasises the need for mentorship that goes beyond tasks. Empowering women to develop resilience and coping skills is crucial, as is providing access to resources that enable them to thrive in their academic careers.

Prof. Annatjie van der Wath’s contributions to nursing research and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of researchers are truly commendable. Her work not only advances the field of nursing but also inspires and empowers others to follow in her footsteps. As we honor the achievements of women in science this month, Prof. van der Wath’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one dedicated individual can have on an entire profession.