Empowering the Future: Meet the Master’s students of the SAWiSA DSTI–Dr. Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri Fellowship

The South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA) not only celebrates excellence among distinguished and emerging women scientists — it also paves the way for the next generation of innovators. Meet the brilliant doctoral candidates shaping the future of science in South Africa.
Ms Duduzile Kubheka holds a BSc in Biotechnology from UP (2016) and a postgraduate diploma in Information Technology Management from Mancosa (2021). She is currently completing an MPhil in Science and Technology Studies at Stellenbosch University, with a research focus on astronomy outreach and science communication in Africa. She also works as a Project Coordinator for BRICS Astronomy through the South African Astronomy Observatory and is a Co-chair of the Outreach and Education Committee of the African Astronomical Society.
Ms Kubheka's research investigates the current landscape of public engagement with astronomy across Africa through mapping key stakeholders, documenting outreach initiatives and analysing the factors that shape successful science communication. Her aim is to strengthen inclusive, evidence-based engagement strategies, inform policy and funding decisions, and enhance astronomy's role in promoting scientific literacy and socio-economic development across Africa.
Ms Kubheka is a recognised leader in science outreach. She received the 2024 NRF Stakeholder Service Award at the South African Astronomical Observatory and was named as a Finalist for the 2025 NSTF-South32 Communication Award.
Her global impact is further reflected in numerous international travel grants and speaking engagements, including a plenary talk at the Communicating Astronomy with the Public Conference (France, 2024), and participation in the European Astronomical Society Annual Meeting (2025) and Venice International University Spring School (2024). Ms Kubheka has published four papers in renowned journals, including Nature Astronomy and the Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal. She has presented her work at prestigious platforms such as the World Science Forum, International Astronomical Union General Assembly, various BRICS meetings, Science Forum South Africa, the Southern African Association of Science and Technology Centres Conference, and the Communicating Discovery Sciences International Symposium. Her work champions science that is accessible, inclusive and globally connected.