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Dr. Nonsikelelo Precious Hlongwa, a researcher at CERI’s African Microbiome Project, uses genomics to study pathogens, microbiomes, and antimicrobial resistance in under-resourced settings. Passionate about mentorship and African-led solutions, she inspires young women to embrace resilience, seize opportunities, and lead in science.

Dr Nonsikelelo Precious Hlongwa grew up in a semi-rural community in Mpumalanga, where she witnessed how health challenges, especially preventable diseases, affected many of her family members – including her parents. She explains that this sparked a deep curiosity about microbes, water, and health. “Even though I had limited access to labs, libraries, or even computers in school, I worked twice as hard to catch up,” says Nonsie. “My passion grew through each academic step, and led to a PhD focused on molecular detection of pathogens in wastewater.”

A defining moment for Nonsie was her Fulbright fellowship in the US, where she spent a full academic year. “It opened the world of next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics, helping me see how science can directly transform public health. It also reaffirmed my belief that African researchers belong at the forefront of global science.”

Within the African Microbiome Project and at CERI, Nonsie focuses on applying genomics to study pathogens, microbiomes, and antimicrobial resistance – especially in under-resourced settings. “It’s about creating African solutions using African data,” she says.

CERI gives space for women to lead, mentor, and innovate. “I’ve had the opportunity to co-supervise postgraduate students, contribute to impactful microbiome research, and be part of a supportive community. As someone passionate about mentorship, it means a lot to be in a space where you are being supported to develop as a researcher, a space where knowledge-sharing and leadership among women is actively supported.”

One of Nonsie’s proudest moments was contributing to mentoring a high school student through Nkathuto Edupropeller, whose project won national recognition and funding. “Moments like that remind me that science is not just about discovery, it’s about impact. Being selected as a Fulbright scholar and receiving the NRF Research Excellence Award also reinforced my belief in staying committed to purpose and excellence,” says Nonsie.

Are you a young woman curious about science? “Start where you are, and do the best you can with what you have. Your background doesn’t define your limits; it shapes your strength,” says Nonsie. “Stay consistent, work hard, and value every opportunity – big or small. Find mentors, ask questions, and never be afraid to take up space. Surround yourself with those who believe in you, even before you do.”

News date: 2025-08-08

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