How a lady rose from the townships to become a scientist and scored R105,000

In the heart of Zwide, a township outside Port Elizabeth, a young girl named Zukiswa Zingela dared to dream big. Despite the challenges she faced, she believed that anything was possible if she set her mind to it.

"How else is a little girl growing up in Zwide to believe it is possible to reach for the stars in whatever field you set your heart on?" Zingela once asked herself.

Today, Professor Zingela is an accomplished psychiatrist and researcher, and the Executive Dean of Health Sciences at Nelson Mandela University. She has been recognized for her pioneering work in mental health, including developing the Enhanced Preparedness Training (EPT) program during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Zingela, the executive dean of health sciences at NMU, was one of 14 national finalists, and was honoured at a special awards ceremony in White River, near Mbombela (Nelspruit), on Thursday.
She also took home a cash prize of R105,000.

Zingela's journey to success was not easy. She grew up in a poor family and had to overcome many obstacles to pursue her education. But she never gave up on her dreams.

"My first love is medicine, while mental health and empowering others through education and sharing of knowledge are my passion," she said. "This is what drives the work I do."

Zingela's work has had a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals. The EPT program, for example, has helped people to cope with the mental health challenges posed by the pandemic.

Zingela has also served on various boards and committees, including the Medical and Dental Professionals Board and the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Mental Health. She is also a member of the International Narcotics Control Board.

"This is one of the flagship projects of the department and honours some of SA's best women researchers and scientists," said Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande at the SA Women in Science Awards ceremony where Zingela was recognized.

Zingela's story is an inspiration to girls and women everywhere. It shows that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

"When the accolades and awards follow, I see them as a cloak of honour one has to wear, if only to inspire others," she said.

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