Tintswalo Molelekoa, a PhD candidate in Plant Pathology at the University of Pretoria (UP), has been named one of the *Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young South Africans 2025.

The ‘200 Young South Africans’ awards, presented by the Mail & Guardian, are an annual recognition event celebrating the achievements of young South Africans across various fields. These awards highlight the contributions of individuals under age 35 who are making significant impacts in their respective domains, showcasing the potential and talent within the country.

“Being named among the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans 2025 in the Education category marks a significant milestone in my academic journey. This award affirms the impact of our research as I near the completion of my PhD and underscores my desire to become an established researcher and lecturer in plant pathology and food security,” an elated Tintswalo explained.

“Growing up in Thapane village, Limpopo, as one of five children raised by an unemployed single mother, I never imagined my path would lead me here. Surviving a childhood fire accident that raised doubts about my ability to learn makes this recognition even more profound. Today, as a researcher at the UP, I am proud that my work in teaching, research, and community engagement on equipping farmers and consumers with knowledge in food safety and waste reduction for improved food security is being acknowledged on such a prestigious platform,” she added.

Tintswalo shared more about her journey. ”Beyond research, this recognition also honours my commitment to mentoring the next generation and my work with my fellow co-founders to help young people from disadvantaged backgrounds access higher education. With my husband, we have supported students enrolling at various universities, including UP, by providing guidance on bursaries, applications, crowdfunding, and housing. For me, this award is a testament that my work as a scientist and a founder of a non-profit organisation makes a real difference. I feel honoured, seen, and inspired to reach even greater heights while empowering others along the way. I am especially grateful for the support I have received from my former high school teachers, Mr and Mrs Jacobs and Mrs Maunatlala, who first enrolled me at UP, as well as from my loving family, my students, and the Plant Pathology team. To God be the glory.” Tintswalo concluded.

Tintswalo co-founded the Ku Hanana Foundation, a nonprofit that provides under-resourced students with mentorship, bursary assistance, and housing support. The foundation now runs community science events, career expos and donation drives across Limpopo and Gauteng — impacting hundreds of learners. Inspired by her teachers' compassion and her mother's strength, Tintswalo says science is not an exclusive pursuit — it is a community tool. Her legacy is one of access, transformation and refusing to let adversity have the final say.