NAS Women: Recognising and unlocking your talent is critical
Women's Month: Focus on Prof Sanushka Naidoo

Q: Job title and in which department/research entity do you work?
A: Head of the Department, Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology.

Q: What has been the highlight of your career?
A: Giving a TED talk at the world-famous CERN centre for nuclear research, Geneva, Switzerland, on "The elephant in the room: will we destroy or recreate ourselves?" I spoke about the role of biotechnology in our future preservation.

Q: What inspires you? 
A: Fellow women scientists inspire me, and I had the good fortune of having several great role models throughout my career, right here in the Department. More recently, Jennifer Doudna, the scientist that discovered CRISPR technology, serves as quite an inspiration. Her journey to making this scientific breakthrough is quite fascinating. Another person who influences me is Kenyan scientist Wangari Muta Maathai, the first African woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to combat deforestation. Such women, who are passionate and persevere, holding onto a commitment to change lives for the better, truly inspire me.

Q: What challenges have you experienced in your career?
A: Initially in my career, it was challenging to accept the place of a young South African woman on a world stage; however, as my career progressed, and with more exposure to such opportunities, I have become confident of our place among the world's best scientists".

Q: What message do you have for the youth of South Africa?
A: The youth hold tremendous potential to change society for the better. Recognising and unlocking your talent is critical. Align yourself with the best mentors that support and inspire you to become an inspiration yourself.