Womanity - Women in Unity

Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka Producer
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“Womanity – Women in Unity” is a weekly gender based programme produced by Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka

  1. 1D AGO

    Professor Bernadine Benson: SAPS, College of Law, UNISA – Faith

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks to Professor Bernadine Benson about her professional journey, spanning nearly two decades in policing and a transformative transition into academia. Her story is one of resilience, identity, and continuous evolution, shaped by hardship, purpose and faith. A Childhood of Instability and the Drive to Excel Born into a working-class family with an English mother and Afrikaans father, Prof Benson’s early life was marked by constant movement and instability, attending seven different primary schools. This environment fostered both loneliness and a fierce internal drive, pushing her toward academic and athletic excellence as a means of coping and self-definition. Her entry into the South African Police Service at just 17 years old was a calling rooted in a desire to succeed. A Career in Policing: Discipline, Identity, and Power Prof Benson’s policing career was defined by discipline, structure, and achievement. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, she thrived in a system built on hierarchy and command. Yet, this environment also shaped a rigid worldview, one that prioritised performance over empathy and authority over reflection. Her identity became deeply intertwined with her rank and role, which symbolised both power and belonging. The Turning Point: Letting Go of Identity A pivotal moment came when Prof Benson realised that her sense of self was rooted in her professional identity rather than internal values. This realisation catalysed her transition from policing into academia at UNISA, a move marked by uncertainty, fear, and profound personal growth. In leaving behind authority, she began developing emotional and spiritual intelligence, learning to lead with compassion rather than command. Learning to Listen: Emotional Intelligence and Transformation Prof Benson describes her evolution as one shaped by “hard knocks” and critical self-reflection. Exposure to new ideas, particularly through transformation and decoloniality dialogues, challenged her deeply ingrained beliefs and cultural “default settings.” These experiences forced her to confront uncomfortable truths about bias, identity, and how her actions impacted others, ultimately reshaping her leadership style into one centred in empathy, listening, and openness. Navigating Male-Dominated Spaces Throughout her career, Prof Benson faced significant challenges as a woman in male-dominated environments. She speaks candidly about patriarchal dynamics, tokenism, and the pressure placed on women to perform in roles they may not yet be supported to succeed in. Her strategy for survival and influence evolved: learning to “read the room,” adapt communication styles, and reframe ideas to gain traction without compromising integrity. Uncovering Hidden Crimes: Art Theft and Heritage Protection One of the most fascinating aspects of her career is her work in art and heritage crime investigations. Prof Benson highlights the often-overlooked scale of these crimes, noting that high-profile heists are just the “tip of the iceberg.” She exposes systemic weaknesses—poor inventory systems, undertrained staff, and lack of funding—that make cultural institutions vulnerable. Importantly, she reframes these crimes as societal losses, not victimless acts, as they erode collective heritage and identity. The Future of Policing: Technology Meets Theory Turning to the future, Prof Benson explores the role of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies in law enforcement. While acknowledging the potential of tools like voice analysis and AI, she cautions against uncritical adoption, highlighting the dangers of pseudoscience and poorly implemented systems. She advocates strongly for intelligence-driven policing grounded in criminological theory—arguing that without foundational knowledge, even the most advanced technologies will fail to deliver meaningful impact. A Crisis of Values: Society, Policing, and Ubuntu A recurring theme in the conversation is the erosion of moral values in society. Prof Benson connects systemic issues in policing to broader societal challenges, including corruption, lack of accountability, and weakened ethical foundations. She calls for a return to fundamental principles, starting with early education, and emphasises the importance of Ubuntu not just as a concept, but as a lived practice. The Personal Foundations of Success Beyond her professional achievements, Prof Benson attributes her success to deeply personal influences: her faith, a resilient mother, a supportive marriage, and mentors who guided her growth. These relationships provided stability and grounding, enabling her to navigate uncertainty and remain committed to lifelong learning. A Philosophy for Life and Leadership Prof Benson leaves us with a philosophy that inspires self confidence: Never stop learning Embrace discomfort and challenge your beliefs Receive criticism with reflection, not defensiveness Measure success not by titles, but by humanity She describes herself as a “potter,” shaping the lives of those she encounters. A metaphor that underscores the responsibility of leadership and the impact of everyday interactions. Tune in for more…

    40 min

  2. MAR 26

    Dr. Rosalind Skelton – MD: South African Astronomical Observatory – Eat the Elephant

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr. Rosalind Skelton, who is the Managing Director of the South African Astronomical Observatory, and closes out our series on This is the final episode in our series on women in Astronomy. Dr. Skelton’s story begins with a deep-rooted curiosity about the natural world. As a young student, her interests spanned biology, archaeology, and physics.  Physics ultimately became her gateway to understanding the universe. Her academic journey, began at the University of Cape Town and extended to globally renowned institutions such as Yale and the Max Planck Institute, and what began as an interest in physics evolved into a passion for astronomy once she encountered it at university. Understanding the Universe: Galaxies, Time, and Our Place Within It Dr. Skelton brings the vastness of the universe into perspective. A single galaxy contains billions of stars, and our own solar system is just a tiny fragment within the Milky Way. Her research in galaxy evolution explores how galaxies form, grow, and change over time. By observing distant galaxies, astronomers are effectively looking back in time, sometimes billions of years, and uncovering the history of the universe itself. Dr. Skelton’s work is deeply embedded in large-scale international research efforts that rely on cutting-edge technology and collaboration. Projects such as the 4MOST Hemisphere Survey aim to map vast regions of the southern sky, capturing data from thousands of galaxies at once. Others, like the LADUMA project using the MeerKAT radio telescope, focus intensely on a single patch of sky, observing it for hundreds of hours to detect faint signals from hydrogen gas. Astronomy is inherently collaborative. Massive projects like the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) require international cooperation, shared funding, and collective expertise Leading to Build the Future In her role as Managing Director of SAAO, Dr. Skelton sits at the intersection of global science and national responsibility. Astronomy may be collaborative and international, but there is also a need to ensure that South African scientists are equipped to lead and compete on the world stage. Leading an organisation as complex as the observatory requires not only scientific insight, but the ability to align diverse teams, from researchers and engineers to educators and outreach specialists. It is about creating coherence across a system where every part plays a role. Looking ahead, Dr. Skelton’s vision for the Observatory includes: Keeping key infrastructure like SALT globally competitive Training the next generation of scientists and engineers Driving innovation in instrumentation and technology Extending the impact of astronomy beyond science into broader societal benefits Her leadership style reflects her personality: thoughtful, measured, and grounded. She values listening over imposing, steady progress over rapid change, and collaboration over control. It is a leadership approach that prioritises sustainability and alignment rather than urgency for its own sake Ingredients of Success: Perseverance and Values Two of Dr. Skelton’s key drivers include perseverance and strong personal values. Perseverance keeps you committed to your cause, even when progress is slow and challenges arise.  Anchoring yourself to strong values allows you to be grounded in your identity and by knowing who you are, you know what you will and will not accept. In closing, Dr. Skelton shares that change is typically gradual, and progress is built over time through consistent effort. When you look back, you’ll realise how far you’ve come. She sums this up with a colourful metaphor: “How do you eat an elephant? Bit by bit.” Tune in for more…

    38 min

  3. MAR 20

    Prof. Catherine Cress – Astronomy – UNISA – Don’t Underestimate Yourself

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Professor Catherine Cress who is a Professor of Astronomy at the University of South Africa (UNISA). Her work spans the vast, invisible structures of the universe. Understanding how things work From the outset, Prof Cress reframes astronomy not as distant stargazing, but as a powerful laboratory for understanding the fundamental laws of reality. Her journey begins with a simple but profound curiosity: how does everything work? This curiosity led her from theoretical physics into astronomy, where the universe itself becomes the ultimate testing ground for ideas that cannot be replicated on Earth. Education in all forms Prof Cress has studied at institutions in South Africa, USA, and Germany, and reflects candidly on the role of education, not just formal institutions, but the importance of structured learning, discipline, and intellectual community. While acknowledging that today’s digital world offers unprecedented access to knowledge, she highlights a critical truth: learning in isolation is possible, but rarely optimal. Prof Cress makes a compelling case for the transferable skills gained from studying astronomy, positioning it as the “original data science.” She highlights how skills developed in astronomy, such as big data analysis, AI, computational modelling, translate directly into industries from retail to healthcare. Women’s roles in astronomy A particularly compelling thread in the interview is the role of inspiration and representation. Drawing on figures like Marie Curie and Vera Rubin, Prof Cress reveals how reading and understanding “imaginary mentors” shaped her resilience. She also uncovers the often-overlooked contributions of early female astronomers, women who, despite being sidelined as “computers,” made foundational discoveries that still underpin modern science. Prof Cress notes significant progress has been made for female representation in astronomy, while acknowledging that adjacent fields like physics and supercomputing still lag behind. She also addresses the need for scientists in Africa to believe in their own unique contributions to scientific discovery and pursue their research streams. She shares some of her research into dark matter. Using vivid analogies, she explains how astronomers “look back in time” using light that has travelled billions of years, compressing cosmic history into a scale that reveals just how fleeting human existence is. For example, if the age of the universe was compressed into one year, then all of human history would sit in the last 21 seconds of the year. We explore South Africa’s growing role in global astronomy through projects like MeerKAT and the Square Kilometre Array. Prof Cress frames these not just as scientific achievements, but as catalysts for African collaboration, talent development, and intellectual sovereignty. Success enablers On a personal level, Prof Cress speaks about the support structures that enabled her career, particularly the role of her husband as a primary caregiver, challenging traditional gender norms and offering practical advice to young women navigating similar paths. The interview closes on a note of empowerment. Prof Cress shares a powerful message: don’t underestimate yourself. Whether in science or beyond, she encourages women to claim space, seek support, and pursue their curiosity with confidence. Tune in for more…

    40 min

  4. MAR 12

    Dr. Kenda Knowles – Astrophysicist – SARAO & Rhodes University – Empowered Connections

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with astrophysicist Dr. Kenda Knowles, Senior Research Fellow at Rhodes University and researcher at the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory. She shares the story of how curiosity, resilience, and collaboration can open pathways to understanding the universe. Stargazing the future Dr. Knowles’ fascination with the cosmos began long before she imagined becoming a scientist. Growing up on the outskirts of Johannesburg and later KwaZulu-Natal, she had access to the kind of dark night skies that spark wonder. Navigating choices through elimination Her academic path was anything but predetermined. In high school, she knew mostly what she didn’t want to do. Instead of following the traditional routes expected of strong students, she gravitated toward physics because of its ability to explain how the world works. A computational physics programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal ultimately gave her the perfect combination of scientific exploration and practical skills in computing. It was during these studies that she first encountered the groundbreaking Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, an introduction that would steer her toward radio astronomy and shape the course of her career. Funding mechanisms make education accessible Funding opportunities played a decisive role in enabling her journey. Through the Human Capital Development programme linked to South Africa’s radio astronomy initiatives, Dr. Knowles gained the financial support needed to pursue postgraduate research and expand her academic networks. She emphasises that such programmes are not merely financial assistance, they are essential mechanisms that unlock opportunities for talented students who otherwise might never access scientific careers. Networks unlock opportunities Equally important were the relationships she built along the way. Mentorship and collaboration proved pivotal, especially early in her research career. One supervisor encouraged her to explore different research directions and connected her with experts around the world, enabling her to learn specialised skills and build an international network. These collaborations, she notes, are at the heart of modern astronomy, where discoveries depend on global teams working together rather than competing in isolation. Democratising scientific findings for global progress A defining milestone in Dr. Knowles’ career came in 2021 when she led an international team releasing a vast dataset from the MeerKAT Galaxy Cluster Legacy Survey. The MeerKAT telescope, situated in South Africa’s Karoo desert, is one of the world’s most sensitive radio telescopes. By observing more than a hundred galaxy clusters, the survey created an unprecedented window into some of the universe’s largest gravitationally bound structures. Galaxy clusters serve as cosmic laboratories. Studying them reveals how galaxies evolve in dense environments, how enormous magnetic fields behave across intergalactic space, and how extreme events—such as massive cluster mergers—shape the large-scale structure of the universe. By making this extensive dataset publicly available, Dr. Knowles and her colleagues ensured that researchers across the world could explore it, dramatically multiplying its scientific impact and helping democratise access to cutting-edge astronomical data. The scale of modern astronomy also means grappling with enormous volumes of information. As observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope and future surveys begin producing data on billions of galaxies, artificial intelligence and machine learning are becoming essential tools. These technologies allow scientists to sift through vast datasets and identify unusual or transformative phenomena that might otherwise remain hidden. Yet Dr. Knowles cautions that while AI is powerful, researchers must remain thoughtful about when and how to use it—it is not always the right solution for every problem. Building future scientists and unblocking systemic barriers Beyond research, Dr. Knowles is deeply committed to building the next generation of scientists. She regularly speaks to school students, runs skills-development workshops, and encourages young researchers to explore opportunities such as internships and vacation projects that allow them to experience scientific research firsthand. Her message to aspiring astronomers is practical and empowering: study mathematics and physics, seek mentorship, and take initiative in exploring the field. The conversation also explores the status of women in astronomy. While the field has made notable progress, sometimes reaching near gender parity among students, women remain underrepresented at the most senior academic levels. Dr. Knowles attributes this partly to systemic issues such as unequal administrative burdens and the challenges of balancing family responsibilities with the demanding “publish or perish” culture of academia. Addressing these barriers, she argues, requires conscious institutional change, mentorship structures, and supportive policies that allow talented women to progress in their careers. As the interview concludes, Dr. Knowles offers a powerful piece of advice to young women and girls: don’t place yourself in a box. She recalls a formative moment when a teacher challenged her for limiting herself by believing she was only “a science student.” That conversation inspired her to push beyond those self-imposed boundaries, an experience that eventually led her to unexpected achievements, including a creative writing award in her final year of school. Her takeaway message is: curiosity, creativity, and courage often matter more than predefined paths. By remaining open to possibilities and willing to explore beyond perceived limits, the next generation of scientists may not only discover new truths about the universe, but also new dimensions of their own potential. Tune in for more…

    40 min

  5. MAR 5

    Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa – Vice Chancellor & Principal – University of Mpumalanga – Integrity

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa – Vice Chancellor and Principal at the University of Mpumalanga. A distinguished feminist scholar, academic leader, and advocate for social justice, Professor Meyiwa shares insights into her remarkable career journey, her vision for transforming higher education, and her unwavering commitment to advancing women’s rights. Leading a Young University with a Bold Vision Taking the helm of the relatively young University of Mpumalanga, established in 2013 and now serving over 13,000 students, Professor Meyiwa describes the institution as being in a stage of growth, ambition, and discovery. Her vision is to build an innovative African university that not only operates on African soil but actively contributes to solving the continent’s challenges. She emphasises the importance of raising the bar, creating a technologically advanced, paperless institution that nurtures independent thinkers and thought leaders. More importantly, she wants every student, staff member, and partner who engages with the university to leave with a sense that the institution made a meaningful difference in their lives and communities. Impact Beyond the Ivory Tower Professor Meyiwa challenges the traditional perception of universities as isolated “ivory towers.” Instead, she envisions institutions that collaborate widely and actively engage with society. For her, the purpose of higher education must extend beyond awarding qualifications: it must inspire passion, integrity, innovation, and impact. In her view, every action within a university should ultimately answer one important question: What change will this make? Feminist Scholarship and the Fight for Women’s Rights Beyond academia, Professor Meyiwa’s work as a feminist scholar has involved confronting some of society’s most difficult realities. She speaks candidly about research she helped lead into the forced sterilisation of HIV-positive women, uncovering systemic practices where women were sterilised or subjected to medical procedures without informed consent. The findings were deeply disturbing, revealing patterns across multiple provinces and prompting efforts to pursue legal action against the state. For Professor Meyiwa, addressing such injustices (even when it may carry professional risks) is a moral responsibility. Education as a Pathway to Empowerment Throughout the conversation, Professor Meyiwa reinforces the transformative power of education, particularly for women. She highlights the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and supportive networks that enable women to develop their voices and leadership potential. Her message is clear: education is not simply about academic achievement, it is about creating opportunities, fostering independence of thought, and empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.

    40 min

  6. FEB 26

    Dr. Sarah Pedretti – UCT Lung Institute – Limitless

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sarah Pedretti, Principal Scientific Officer at the University of Cape Town Lung Institute. Dr Pedretti traces her academic path from France and Switzerland to South Africa, highlighting how international collaboration, mentorship, and intellectual curiosity led her to Cape Town. What began as a one-year postdoctoral opportunity evolved into a long-term commitment to African health research. Collaboration Over Competition: How Science Truly Advances Dr Pedretti challenges the myth of the lone scientist, explaining that modern research depends on collaboration across borders, disciplines, and institutions. She reflects on the importance of global conferences, shared data, and collective problem-solving—especially in a world where funding is scarce and duplication of research wastes precious resources. Inside the UCT Lung Institute: Research from Patient to Cell At the UCT Lung Institute, research is deeply integrated with patient care. Dr Pedretti explains how clinical consultations, paediatric allergy services, and clinical trials feed directly into laboratory science. Her work spans the entire value chain—from real patients and clinical symptoms to cellular mechanisms—ensuring that research outcomes remain grounded in lived health realities. Why Allergies Are on the Rise With nearly one-third of South Africans expected to experience an allergic condition in their lifetime, Dr Pedretti unpacks why allergies are increasing. Environmental factors such as pollution and urbanisation intersect with improved awareness and diagnosis. Alarmingly, up to 40% of allergy sufferers are children, making this a growing public health concern. The Hidden Danger: Allergic Reactions to Medication A major focus of Dr Pedretti’s research is drug-induced allergic reactions—particularly to hypertension, HIV, and TB medications. These reactions are often overlooked because patients assume prescribed medicine cannot be the source of harm. Her work aims to identify genetic and biological markers that could one day predict adverse reactions before treatment begins, potentially saving lives. Women, Hormones, and Immunity The conversation explores why women are more prone to allergic and immune-mediated conditions after puberty. Hormonal changes linked to menstruation and menopause can intensify symptoms, underscoring the need for gender-sensitive research and treatment approaches in immunology and allergy care. A Critical Skills Shortage: Where Are the Allergists? Despite rising allergy prevalence, South Africa has only 14 trained allergists—most of them based in Cape Town. Dr Pedretti highlights this severe shortage and reflects on why allergy remains an under-recognised medical specialty, despite its growing burden on public health systems. Funding, Gender, and the Real Barriers in Science Contrary to common assumptions, Dr Pedretti notes that gender itself has not been her primary barrier. Instead, funding constraints remain the biggest challenge in scientific careers. She discusses navigating local and international funding bodies, philanthropic foundations, and industry partnerships—emphasising adaptability and openness as survival skills in research. Science with Purpose: From Rooibos to Genomics Among her most fascinating projects is research into rooibos tea, inspired by a local remedy. Early laboratory findings suggest rooibos may reduce allergic responses, leading to clinical trials that could validate indigenous knowledge through scientific evidence. Her broader vision is clear: science must lead to real-world solutions, whether through diagnostics, prevention, or personalised medicine. Education as Empowerment Dr Pedretti reflects deeply on the role of education in shaping her career and worldview. She credits accessible education systems, lifelong learning, and critical thinking as foundations for innovation—and stresses how unequal access to education continues to limit potential, particularly for women in Africa. Success, Integrity, and Passion For Dr Pedretti, success is built on work ethic, honesty, and resilience. She speaks candidly about long hours, failed experiments, and the importance of publishing negative results. Above all, she believes passion—for science, for patients, for impact—is non-negotiable in a demanding field. Standing on the Shoulders of Strong Women The episode wraps up with moving reflections on the women who shaped her journey—her mother, a pharmacist; her postdoctoral supervisor; and the many women leaders she has encountered at UCT. Their example proves that excellence in science and leadership can coexist with family, humanity, and mentorship. Dr Pedretti closes with a powerful call to action: Trust your curiosity. Build your skills. Seek mentors. Don’t wait for permission to lead. The world needs your voice, your ideas, and your vision. Tune in for more…

    43 min

  7. FEB 19

    Dr. Sebastiana Kalula – Specialist Physician in Geriatric Medicine, UCT – Invest in your healthspan

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Sebastiana Kalula, emeritus associate professor, specialist physician in geriatric medicine, Director of the Albertina and Walter Sisulu Institute of Ageing in Africa, and Co-Director of the International Longevity Centre South Africa at the University of Cape Town. As global life expectancy rises, Dr Kalula unpacks one of the most pressing issues of our time: how to ensure that longer lives are also healthier, dignified, and equitable — especially for women. From Rural Zambia to Global Leadership in Ageing Dr Kalula reflects on her journey from growing up in rural eastern Zambia, supported by parents who valued education despite not having had the opportunity themselves, to qualifying in medicine and eventually discovering geriatric medicine in the UK. What began as a practical career pathway became a calling. She describes geriatrics as a specialty that blends science and humanity — one that looks beyond a single disease to consider the whole person: physical health, mental well-being, social context, and functional ability. Her career has since positioned her at the forefront of ageing research and advocacy across Africa, where the demographic shift toward older populations is accelerating rapidly. Health Span vs. Lifespan: A Critical Distinction One of the most powerful insights from the conversation is Dr Kalula’s emphasis on extending health span rather than simply lifespan. Living longer, she cautions, is not the goal if those additional years are marked by disability and poor quality of life. She explains that while genetics contribute approximately 25% to longevity, the majority of our health outcomes are shaped by social determinants: education, income, access to healthcare, safe environments, and lifestyle choices. The conditions in which we are born, grow, work and age profoundly shape how long, and how well, we live. Her practical advice is clear: Prioritise whole foods over processed diets Stay physically active at every age Protect sleep and manage stress Remain socially connected Invest in preventive healthcare early in life Healthy ageing, she reminds us, is a life-course process, not a switch we flip at 60. The Gendered Reality of Ageing in Africa Dr Kalula explains that women live longer than men, which means they carry a disproportionate burden of age-related conditions such as dementia. But biology tells only part of the story. Lifetime inequalities, such as limited access to education, unpaid caregiving roles, economic insecurity, and widowhood, compound women’s vulnerability in later life. Chronic stress, she explains, elevates cortisol levels, weakens immunity, increases inflammation, and raises the risk of conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease, all of which can contribute to cognitive decline. In the African context, the challenges can be even more severe. Widowed older women often face social exclusion, loneliness, poverty, and in some communities, even harmful stigma. The emotional and psychological toll of these realities can itself increase dementia risk. Dr Kalula calls for stronger legal protections, income security through pensions, age-friendly healthcare systems, and, critically, better age- and gender-disaggregated data to inform policy. Dementia, Vascular Health and Prevention The conversation also tackles dementia — a growing global health concern. Dr Kalula highlights that in Africa, vascular disease (including strokes and poor circulation to the brain) is a major contributor to dementia. This underscores the importance of managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors early in life. She also emphasises the importance of brain stimulation. Education, meaningful work, continuous learning, and challenging routines all help maintain cognitive reserve. The brain, like the body, needs exercise. Leadership, Mentorship and Building Sustainable Success Beyond medicine, Dr Kalula shares powerful reflections on leadership. She speaks about the importance of mentorship at every stage of life, humility in leadership, and building respectful teams where others can flourish.  She is also a member of the African Research on Ageing Network (AFRAN), the Global Aging Research Network (GARN), the South African Geriatrics Society (SAGS) and the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics (IAGG Balancing an academic medical career with family life required resilience, clarity of priorities, reliable childcare, and strong support systems at home and work. “No one succeeds alone,” she reflects, emphasising the value of quality friendships and supportive networks. Her philosophy of success moves beyond achievement to sustainability, well-being, and community impact. A Call to Action for Women In her closing message to girls and women, Dr Kalula encourages continuous self-development: Be the best version of yourself wherever you are Seek mentors Keep learning Challenge your mind Compete against yourself, not others Define where you want to be — and work toward it deliberately Ageing, she reminds us, is universal: “We are all getting there, if we are lucky.” The question is whether we will build societies that allow women to age with dignity, inclusion, and vitality. Tune in for more

    40 min

  8. FEB 13

    Dr Kaylin Du Plessis – Exotic Vet: Pretoria Zoo – Limitless

    This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Kaylin du Plessis, a veterinarian at the Pretoria Zoo whose work combines exotic animal medicine, complex surgery, conservation, and compassion. From the outset, Dr du Plessis reveals that her journey into veterinary science was driven by a childhood love of animals and a deeper calling to advocate for beings who cannot speak for themselves. This sense of purpose has shaped a career defined by resilience, precision, and an unwavering commitment to animal welfare, particularly within the highly specialised and demanding world of exotic veterinary medicine. Inside the World of Exotic Animals Dr du Plessis unpacks what “exotic” truly means, clarifying the distinction between domestic animals, wildlife, and non-native species. From primates, wild cats, antelope and birds to reptiles, crocodilians, fish, and even venomous snakes, her work spans an extraordinary diversity of species, each with its own anatomy, physiology, behavioural traits, and medical risks. She explains why surgery on exotic animals is vastly different from domestic practice: tiny, fragile patients; highly sensitive responses to anaesthesia; slow healing processes; specialised equipment; and the ever-present risk of stress-induced complications. In this world, there is no formula—every case is handled individually, with meticulous attention to detail. Memorable Cases and Life-Saving Decisions The interview brings listeners into the operating theatre through unforgettable cases: A red kangaroo saved after the removal of a massive cancerous tumour once deemed inoperable A lioness brought back from the brink after emergency surgery for a life-threatening uterine infection A Cape vulture revived through swift tele-guided intervention Surgeries on a gorilla, gibbon, capuchin, and even a forest cobra with facial cancer These moments underscore a powerful philosophy that defines Dr du Plessis’s work: every life deserves a chance, regardless of species, size, or public perception. The Hidden Realities of Veterinary Medicine Beyond the remarkable cases, Dr du Plessis speaks candidly about the less glamorous realities of the profession, such as its emotional toll, physical demands, financial pressures, and exposure to zoonotic diseases such as tuberculosis. She highlights the importance of emotional resilience and support in a field where burnout is common. She also addresses widespread misconceptions about owning exotic pets, warning that they are neither low-maintenance nor inexpensive, and that many animals suffer due to inadequate knowledge, improper care, and delayed medical attention. Women, Science, and Breaking Stereotypes As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated and physically demanding field, Dr du Plessis reflects on gender bias, recounting moments where her expertise was questioned simply because she is female. Rather than deterring her, these experiences strengthened her resolve—fuelling a career built on competence, discipline, and consistency. She speaks passionately about the growing opportunities for women in exotic medicine, conservation, research, academia, and zoo practice, and emphasises that empathy, communication, and attention to detail are strengths—not weaknesses—in veterinary science. Balancing Career, Motherhood, and Identity One of the most resonant parts of the conversation is Dr du Plessis’s honest reflection on motherhood and work. Rejecting the myth of perfect balance, she reframes success as finding fulfilment in both career and family, supported by boundaries, self-care, and strong support systems. “Recharge is not a luxury,” she reminds listeners; it is a necessity. Perseverance, Mentorship, and Purpose Dr du Plessis shares her own story of perseverance, initially failing to gain entry into veterinary school, persisting through years of study, and succeeding against steep odds in one of South Africa’s most competitive academic fields. She highlights the importance of mentors, community, and choosing the right tribe, as well as contributing to the global knowledge base through research and publishing. A Message to Women and Girls Closing the conversation, Dr du Plessis delivers a powerful message to women across the continent: You belong in science. You belong in medicine. You belong in specialised fields. Success may not follow a straight line, but with discipline, curiosity, and belief in yourself, it is achievable. Tune in for more

    34 min
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About

“Womanity – Women in Unity” is a weekly gender based programme produced by Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka

Information

  • Creator
    Dr Amaleya Goneos-Malka Producer
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    299
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © SABC
  • Show Website
    Womanity - Women in Unity