Dr Maurine Musie, a senior nursing lecturer at the University of Pretoria (UP), has been selected to represent South Africa at the BRICS Young Scientist Forum in Russia from 18 to 22 November 2024. In addition to being a midwife specialist and emerging researcher in UP’s Department of Nursing Science, she is also recognised as the youngest PhD holder in the University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing Science.

Dr Musie’s commitment to advancing healthcare and empowering future generations of scientists is evident in her impactful work. She has contributed to improving healthcare access for underserved communities through her research on managing obstetric emergencies and the professional development of midwives.

“My efforts aim to address the gaps in our healthcare systems, particularly in maternal health, which remains a challenge in South Africa,” Dr Musie said. “I am honoured and proud to be representing South Africa at such a prestigious international forum.”

Her prominent positions in various organisations are evidence of her dedication to driving positive change in the nursing field. Dr Musie is a member of the South African Young Scientist Academy of Science and is on the Executive Committee of the Society of Midwives in South Africa. She is also affiliated with the International Confederation of Midwives; is an African regional leader on the Challengers’ Committee of the Nursing Now Challenge, an international campaign; and is Secretary for Sigma Theta Tau International’s Board of Directors.

At the BRICS Young Scientist Forum, Dr Musie will present her research on mobile health technology for managing obstetric emergencies.

“My focus is on leveraging mobile health solutions, such as applications and telemedicine, to improve early detection, remote monitoring and timely intervention in high-risk pregnancies,” Dr Musie explains.

This research addresses the critical maternal health challenges faced by BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – where disparities in access to quality obstetric care continue to affect maternal and neonatal outcomes. Dr Musie believes that collaboration among scientists from BRICS nations is essential for tackling global issues.

“By sharing diverse perspectives and expertise, we can develop innovative solutions to shared challenges, such as healthcare access and climate change,” she says.

This collaborative spirit enhances research capacity and promotes technology transfer, ultimately strengthening the scientific outputs in developing countries.

Throughout her journey, Dr Musie has drawn inspiration from leaders like Professor Tivani Mashamba-Thompson, Deputy Dean of Research and Postgraduate Studies in UP’s Faculty of Health Sciences, and UP nursing professor Prof Mavis Mulaudzi, the South African Research Chair in Ubuntu Community Model in Nursing.

“Their dedication to healthcare and mentorship has shaped my path,” Dr Musie says.

Additionally, the joy and perspective brought by her three-year-old daughter, Murunwa, motivate her to maintain a balance between her personal and professional life.

“Watching her grow and learn reminds me of the importance of nurturing both my family and my career,” Dr Musie reflects.

As she prepares for the forum, Dr Musie hopes to inspire other young scientists in South Africa.

“I want to demonstrate that engagement with global scientific communities is achievable. By sharing my journey and fostering connections with international researchers, I aim to create opportunities for collaborative projects that can benefit the local scientific landscape.”

Looking ahead, Dr Musie envisions a future where collaboration among BRICS countries in the field of science evolves into a powerful force for addressing global challenges.

“By working together on innovative medical technologies and digital health solutions, we can enhance healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas,” she says.