Two University of the Western Cape (UWC) representatives made the University proud when one became the winner in the Innovation and Technology Pioneer category and the other a finalist in the Social Impact Awards category in the Good Hope FM Women Warrior Awards.

Dr Natasha Ross, an award-winner in the Innovation and Technology Pioneer category of the competition, from Kuils River in Cape Town, is a senior lecturer and researcher at UWC and is known for her groundbreaking work in chemistry. The work involves developing solar-charged batteries with applications in medicine, agriculture, and transportation.

Dr Ross said winning the award was both humbling and affirming, highlighting the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and community strength.

“I am immensely grateful to my colleagues, students, friends, and family, whose unwavering support has driven my pursuit of sustainable research solutions for positive change,” she said.

“This award is not solely mine; it represents every woman striving to impact science and technology. It celebrates our shared commitment to developing innovative nanomaterials that enhance energy storage systems, and it underscores the vital role of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

“This recognition strengthens my dedication to mentorship and empowering future female researchers, especially in fields addressing key green energy and sustainability challenges. “I look forward to continuing to break boundaries and demystify science. Ultimately, science is a structured form of curiosity that enables us to understand the universe and our role within it.”

Finalist in the Social Impact Awards category, Latifah Jacobs, from Kuils River, a student in Community Development under the Department of Social Work, earned her spot as a finalist in the competition for establishing her own library and securing environments where children can study and develop, and was inspired to be acknowledged in this way.

“It was good to be in the finals. I most definitely loved meeting Dr Ross and we will be collaborating in the near future. There are so many phenomenal women at UWC and I was inspired by her energy,” she said.

“Being recognised in this way reminds us of the impact our actions and advocacy can have on society. It motivates us to continue working towards creating a more just and equitable world for all. We are grateful for the acknowledgement of our efforts and are inspired to keep going with greater determination.”

The winners and finalists of the Good Hope FM Women Warrior Awards were publicised on 23 October 2024.