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 master’s candidate shaping the future of science in South Africa.
Ms Nathma Samie graduated with a BA Honours (cum laude) in Psychology and Psychology for Professional Purposes in 2024 and is currently pursuing an MA at Unisa. Her current research explores the psychological and social impacts of climate change, with a specific focus on psychological constructs that influence pro-environmental behaviour among South African youth. Through this work, Ms Samie aims to reduce the gap in climate-related psychological research from the Global South, particularly in underrepresented populations such as youth and women.
Her research advocates for valid, context-sensitive representations of the South African experience in national and international climate action strategies. By centring the voices of young people in environmental discourse, she hopes to inform more equitable and inclusive climate change mitigation and adaptation policies. Ms Samie has demonstrated excellence both academically and in her community leadership. She was selected as one of News24's Young Mandelas in the Climate Literacy category and was recognised for academic distinction in her honours degree. She has published one peer-reviewed journal article and one position paper, and was involved in drafting the Local Conference of Youth statement aligned with climate advocacy.
In addition to her writing and research, she has actively shared her work at several prestigious academic platforms. These include the International Teaching and Learning Conference (2024), the Department of Health Studies Research Day (2024), and the UJ Symposium (2024). Ms Samie's work exemplifies the intersection of mental health, environmental justice and youth empowerment. Her research reflects a growing movement of young women in psychology who are committed to addressing global challenges through socially engaged community-driven science.
