AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENTISTS
What does your company do?
The African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS) is a dynamic, women-led (63%) non-profit company (NPC) founded to empower, develop, and advocate for medical scientists across South Africa and Africa. AIMS promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and professional growth by addressing critical gaps in training, mentorship, employment pathways, and representation within the healthcare sciences. It builds a strong, interdisciplinary network of scientists, connecting young graduates and professionals to real-world opportunities while collaborating with key regulatory bodies to influence systemic change.
What is your biggest success?
My greatest achievement has been cofounding and leading the African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS), connecting graduates to employment, training, and research opportunities, and creating a mentorship program that has empowered young scientists. I have engaged key stakeholders, including the HPCSA and National Department of Health, to advocate for scientists' development. I also serve as Executive Director of Chapters for Shadow A Scientist, expanding opportunities for students in STEM. Additionally, I am a member of the NWU-HREC, the WHO and NDoH STI Task Team, and the B20 Task Force for Education and Employment. My leadership has been recognized by Forbes Over 30 Under 50, Mail & Guardian Power of Women in STEMI 2024, and by Feature Magazine.
What has been your biggest hurdle?
The biggest hurdle has been securing sustainable funding to support and expand our initiatives. As a non-profit organization focused on empowering medical scientists, AIMS relies heavily on partnerships, sponsorships, and limited grants. Convincing stakeholders to invest in early-career scientists and long-term capacity building, especially in underfunded sectors like medical science, has been challenging. Despite this, I have worked relentlessly to build strategic collaborations and create value-driven programs that showcase real impact. This experience has strengthened my entrepreneurial skills, taught me resilience, and inspired me to continue advocating for investment in the next generation of African scientists.
