PhD graduate reaches for the stars

Former Daveyton resident Dr Busisiwe Twala has achieved what not many could even dream possible.

She recently graduated with a PhD in biochemistry.

The 35-year-old completed a bachelors and honours degree at Wits University, a master’s at the University of Cape Town and a PhD at Rhodes University in the science field.

“There have been a lot of mixed emotions with this journey as it has not been an easy one. I am very proud of this achievement because there were moments where I thought it would not come to pass,” said Twala.

“My family has been supportive through and through, and I would have not made it this far without their faith and support and I have been blessed with an amazing group of extended family and friends.”

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The former Unity Secondary School learner explained that she started her undergraduate in 2004 and completed it in ‘record’ time. She then did her postgraduate degrees (master’s and PhD), which were research-based and took longer.

“I was based at a research council on a studentship rather than being full-time based on campus. It was like the best of both worlds, a working student. Hence, I registered for a master’s in 2009 and graduated in 2011, then a PhD in 2013 and graduated late last year,” she said.

Twala is a project manager for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag). She started at the organisation as a volunteer in 2017.

“This is more of a passion project and wanting to do more for others. Mental health is something close to my heart due to my own experiences during my postgraduate studies. After seeing how much mental health is misunderstood with so many misconceptions around it, it got me involved initially for my understanding and to educate others about it,” said Twala.

“Losing my father who was my number one supporter while completing my PhD contributed to my mental well-being taking a knock. I also had to endure being unemployed in 2017 while trying to complete my studies.

“Luckily, the pandemic hit the country when I was at the end of the journey. I received news of my results in March last year, all I needed was to complete my thesis corrections. There was a bit of a challenge because work got busier (during the lockdown, our services were needed much more), so there were a few late nights in finalising my thesis mid-2020.”

The Springs resident said she is looking forward to going back into the science-related field, to explore new spaces that will challenge and help her grow, and make some money. The PhD needs to be put to work to build and secure the future of her family.

She also expressed gratitude to former the principal and teachers at Unity Secondary School for the extra support inside and outside of the classroom.

“There are not enough words to thank you for changing my trajectory in life. They all played a big role in setting the foundation for what I have achieved academically thus far.”

She encourages the youth to own their ups and downs. There is no such thing as instant success, but don’t deny yourself the opportunity to dream big, your dream pushes you during difficult days. Celebrate the small wins while making your way to your dreams.

“Covid-19 has shown us how quickly and unexpectedly things can change, many dreams were halted but those dreams matter and you matter regardless of what failure you experience. I hope young people become more resilient and adaptable as they navigate all the challenges they face,” said Twala.

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