FACE 2 FACE with

/ with Noluthando Mazwi, an animal scientist

Q What do you do?

A I am an animal scientist by profession. I conduct research on domestic farm animals, with a focus on animal food production, exploring animal genetics, nutrition, reproduction, diseases, growth and development.

What do you enjoy about it?

Animals are more loving, trusting and trustworthy than humans. The love they give to their offspring after they give birth is inspiring. Also, the joy you see in farmers when you give them advice about their animals.

What advice can you give to other young girls who would like to pursue a career in the sciences?

Women were previously disadvantaged when it came to careers and job opportunities. Women were sidelined because there was a belief that men are more clever than women. Women have proven that they are as capable as men. Science is exciting, it challenges you to view things from a different perspective. Science has a lot of opportunities. Go for it girls!

If you were not a scientist what other career do you think you would have pursued?

In my younger days veterinary sciences, actress or teaching as I live for facilitating and imparting knowledge to our youth and the community.

How do you think we are handling the Covid -19 crisis as a country?

Very well …... with the few resources we have, we are trying our best. As communities, we could try to follow the regulations in place, not make outrageous demands or act recklessly.

What do you enjoy doing in your down time?

The way I enjoy my work you cannot believe that I have time to spare. I am looking after my family’s livestock, roping in the children. I also enjoy watching science fiction movies and reading books.

What can you not leave your house without?

My phone, licence, a bottle of water and petroleum jelly. I am also a girly girl - how can I forget my make-up bag and sunglasses, if they are not on my face they have to be in my bag.

What things do you have to do before you die?

I am very adventurous and spontaneous. On top of my bucket list is skydiving, bungee jumping and a trip to other countries with my sisters and close friends and also to see how other people live.