OUR EXPERT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Zuha Ajlan

Zuha Ajlan,MSc (Med)-Neuroscientist |Lead Data Collection and Research Specialist.
Founded Shadow A Scientist in 2022 to support STEM students .Her work has been recognized by organizations like Golden Key International and Hey Youth. Inspired by her own experience as a Bachelor of Science student on the lack of opportunities available to STEM students to propel their careers, she founded Shadow A Scientist during her tenure as the Vice President of the Wits Students’ Pathology Student in 2022.

Designation

The Founder & Chief Executive Director leads the organization, driving its vision and strategic direction. This role involves overseeing all operations, building partnerships, and ensuring the organization's mission is effectively implemented. The director is responsible for managing resources, guiding staff, and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration to achieve organizational goals.

Naledi Sibisi

Naledi Sibisi (BHSc Neuroscience )is an aspiring neuroscientist and a student at the University of the Witwatersrand. She has been actively engaged in the Wits Student Pathology Society and hold the position of Director of Partnerships for Shadow a Scientist.

Designation

The Director of Partnerships is responsible for building and managing strategic relationships with external organizations and stakeholders. This role involves identifying partnership opportunities, negotiating agreements, and collaborating with various departments to align initiatives with the organization’s goals.

Puseletso Manyaka

Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe is an HPCSA-registered Medical Biological Scientist with extensive experience in diagnostic and clinical research.Puseletso holds a BSc and BSc Honours in Microbiology from the University of Pretoria and has been a key figure in shaping the future of medical scientists as she co-founded the African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS) to provide career and educational support for BSc graduates across the continent. As the Director of Chapters at the non-profit organization, Shadow a Scientist, she is committed to creating opportunities for young scientists through training and professional development.

Designation

The Chapters Director is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and operations of all chapters within the organization. This role involves providing leadership, guidance, and support to chapter leaders to ensure that each chapter effectively fulfills its mission and aligns with the organization's overall goals.

Bongani Motau

The Director of Research leads the organization’s research initiatives, overseeing project development and implementation. This role involves coordinating research activities, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, and fostering collaboration among team members. The director also analyzes data, evaluates outcomes, and disseminates findings to support decision-making and enhance the organization’s impact.

Lisakhazi Vowana

Fourth-year medical student at the University of the Witwatersrand | Faculty of Health Sciences | GoldenKey Candidate

Designation

The Director of Outreach is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to engage and connect with the community, enhancing the organization's visibility and impact. This role involves building relationships with key stakeholders, including educational institutions, community organizations, and potential partners.

Bongani Nagel Dube

Bongani Nagel Dube -Bsc Biological sciences with Microbiology and botany student at the North West University.2023/24 NWU FNAS SAC Sub Commitee Member.Bongani Nagel Dube is the founder of TechGuruWebsolutions (Tgw Solutions)

Designation

The Marketing and Media Director develops and executes marketing strategies to enhance the organization's visibility and brand identity. Leading a team, they create campaigns across various platforms to promote initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging and analyzing market trends.

Rowan Gaskin

Rowan Gaskin-Bsc Chemistry and Biochemistry final year student at the North West Univeristy.2023/24 NWU FNAS SAC Sports officer

Designation

The Chapters Team Facilitator is responsible for overseeing and coordinating activities within specific chapters of the organization. This role involves guiding chapter leaders and members, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to carry out their initiatives. The facilitator serves as a liaison between chapters and the central organization, facilitating effective communication and ensuring alignment with overall goals.

Meenam Moodley

BHSc Biomedical Science | BHSc (Hons) Chemical Pathology | Immunology Intern at Wits & the NHLS | Partnerships & Research Coordinator at Shadow a Scientist | Medical Research Scientist

Designation

The Senior Partnerships Coordinator is responsible for developing and managing strategic partnerships that enhance the organization's mission and objectives. This role involves identifying potential partners, cultivating relationships, and ensuring effective collaboration between the organization and external stakeholders.