Qualifications: Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing Management
Q: What inspired you to make this career choice?
A: A much needed opportunity presented itself to me and I took a shot at it. At the time I did not know which Department or Collection I would be assigned to, but I am glad that I ended up at the Entomology Collection. I was initially appointed as a GRAP 103 Data Capturer and later as a Collections Assistant. When I started off, I knew nothing about the scientific study of Entomology and am very grateful for the many on-the-job-training opportunities that my supervisor has provided over the years. It was a huge change for me; however I am happy that God has granted me this opportunity and career path.
Q: Give a brief description of what your job entails.
A: My supervisor usually sets goals and assigns tasks. I assist with GRAP 103 processes; loans; donations; fumigation; pest control checks; replacement of insect sticky traps; identification of pests; topping up of ethanol and cleaning of collections spaces. My main duties comprise of the digitization and the cataloguing of insect specimens. I often assist with public programmes, which I enjoy greatly.
Q: How does it contribute to Collections Management?
A: Curating insect specimens is vital. If we do not do so correctly, we will have nothing to show to the current and future generations, nor have to use for scientific studies. The capturing of specimen data is also very important and must be done so accurately. When capturing specimen data, I double check the entry to ensure that the data is captured correctly. I also handle all specimens with utter respect and care.
Q: What is the most exciting aspect of your job?
A: I enjoy capturing specimen data on the Specify database. I know and understand that a specimen without associated data has no scientific value.
Q: What advice would you give to young people considering a career within Scientific Collections Management?
A: Educate yourself, work hard, don’t give up on your dreams and know that God controls all the outcomes.
Q: What does Leadership mean to you?
A: Leadership to me means being a good role model for someone to follow, whether as a father, priest, older sibling, colleague etc.