• UKZN doctoral student, Ms Makwena Melita Sebone, has been selected as one of seven doctoral students nationally to receive the prestigious Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowship,
• The Fellowship supports female postgraduate researchers at critical stages in their academic journeys,
• Her research focuses on better understanding marine biodiversity and changing ocean conditions, contributing to ocean conservation and sustainable management.

UKZN doctoral student, Ms Makwena Melita Sebone, has been named one of seven female researchers selected nationally for the prestigious Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowship. She received the fellowship at the 23rd South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA), which celebrates and advances women’s contributions to science and research.

Sebone, who is based at the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), is passionate about using innovative methods to observe marine diversity. Her research uses zooplankton and DNA-based data to understand how ocean conditions shape marine biodiversity, supporting better biodiversity monitoring, conservation, and management of South Africa’s marine ecosystems.

She said it was exciting to use DNA to discover species and better understand how marine ecosystems respond to changing ocean conditions. “This research is important because healthy oceans support biodiversity, fisheries, tourism, and the livelihoods of many coastal communities. The more we understand our oceans, the better we can protect them.”

She has co-authored five research articles on her studies.

The Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowship, which Sebone received, aims to support female postgraduate researchers at critical stages in their academic journeys.

She said she was incredibly honoured and grateful for the recognition. “This represents not only my own hard work but also the unwavering support of everyone who has contributed to my journey. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my research and to encourage more young women to pursue careers in science.”

Sebone added, “Science thrives when diverse perspectives come together to solve complex challenges, and I am passionate about contributing to a future where our oceans are better understood, protected, and sustainably managed.”

Dr Normah Zondo, Executive Director of the Corporate Relations Division, congratulated Sebone, and said her achievement is a source of great pride for the UKZN community.

“Her accomplishment reflects the calibre of postgraduate research undertaken at UKZN and reinforces the University’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of women scientists and researchers who are making meaningful contributions to society. We are immensely proud of this well-deserved recognition and wish Sebone continued success as she advances her research and inspires others to pursue excellence in science, technology, and innovation.”

Issued by:
Corporate Relations Division
University of KwaZulu-Natal