The University of Pretoria (UP) has yet again taken its place on the podium by garnering two prestigious accolades at the Higher Education Women Leaders (HEWL) Awards.

The awards, hosted annually by Higher Education Resources Services South Africa (HERS-SA), seek to endorse and honour women leaders’ perseverance, dedication and commitment to excellence.

The elated recipients are Professor Roula Inglesi-Lotz, who heads the Energy Economics Research Unit in the Department of Economics in UP’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, and Dr Maurine Musie, who is an advanced midwifery specialist and lecturer in the Faculty of Health Sciences.

“I am deeply honoured and thrilled to receive this award. It is a significant recognition not only of my work but also of the collective achievements of women in the Humanities and Social Sciences field,” said Prof Inglesi-Lotz.

Echoing her sentiments, Dr Musie said: “Winning the Emerging Young Women Leaders Award makes me feel blessed and is an incredible testament to the hard work, dedication and passion I’ve poured into my field. It feels rewarding to be recognised for my contributions, especially in a domain where the impact can significantly shape the future of healthcare and education.”

The women are experts in their fields, with Prof Inglesi-Lotz’s research focusing on the economic impact of energy consumption and generation methods, while Dr Musie is a specialist and lecturer in advanced midwifery. Dr Musie holds another impressive title – that of being the youngest PhD recipient in the Nursing Department.

The significance of winning the awards during Women’s Month is not lost on the winners.

Prof Inglesi-Lotz added, “The timing, coming at the end of Women's Month, adds more meaning. This award is a testament to the ongoing efforts to elevate and celebrate the contributions of women in academia. Receiving this award feels like a powerful affirmation of the progress we have made towards gender equity, while also highlighting that there is still much work to be done. It serves as a beacon of encouragement and hope, demonstrating that our voices and contributions are valued and impactful.”

Dr Musie said the award aligns with the ongoing efforts to empower and highlight the successes of women. “It amplifies the voices of women in academia, provides a platform to showcase their achievement, and motivates other young women to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. Awards like these are vital because they challenge existing narratives, inspire change, and foster a culture where women’s contributions are celebrated, valued and encouraged.”

Her efforts in her field highlight her dedication to impactful research, leadership and societal progress, said Prof Inglesi-Lotz.

“My energy economics and sustainability research delve into critical areas such as electricity demand patterns, the integration of renewable energy sources, and the complex interplay between economic growth and energy consumption. I aim to provide actionable insights that drive sustainable energy policies and practices.

“In my role as Head of the Energy Economics Research Unit I have made significant strides in advancing our understanding of these issues and shaping effective solutions. My contributions also extend to academic citizenship and professional service,” she added.

Dr Musie has embraced engaging through teaching and community outreach initiatives that align with her values and aspirations. “I am a 30-year-old young academic with a deep-seated passion for nursing and a desire to advance the maternal and healthcare field across the globe through research and academic contributions. I am currently pioneering an interprofessional and transdisciplinary project committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Wellbeing and Quality Education.”

The culture of ‘paying it forward’ is evident in the way both women empower others. Prof Inglesi-Lotz mentors and supports aspiring scholars, especially from underrepresented backgrounds, while Dr Musie is a sought-after guest speaker who also mentors and tutors students.

And their message to aspiring academics?

“Your voice matters, and your contributions are vital,” Prof Inglesi-Lotz advised. “Leadership and pioneering roles often come with unique challenges – but remember that you belong in these spaces just as much as anyone else. It is important to stay true to your values, build a strong support network, and not be afraid to advocate for yourself and others. Embrace collaboration over competition, and always be willing to lift others as you climb.”

Dr Musie’s advice: “My message is one of encouragement, resilience and purpose. My message remains that ‘We rise by lifting others’. Success in higher education is not a solitary journey. Foster a culture of collaboration and mentorship. Support your peers and mentees, and build networks that empower others.”

But it’s not all work and no play for these winners.

Prof Inglesi-Lotz finds wonderment in the perspectives of her growing sons, and counts reading and belly-dancing and taking long walks as pastimes that liberate and bring her joy.

Dr Musie finds inspiration in seeing her three-year-old daughter grow up. So too her family and friends, who she says are her greatest sources of joy, strength and support.

One thing that isn’t in doubt is that Prof Inglesi-Lotz and Dr Musie both embrace the HERS-SA ethos of “Leading, Learning, Lifting”.