Digitising Legacy, Leading with Light: The Journey of Maxine Manickum

“The world will not be changed by our opinion, but by our example.” – Anonymous

For Maxine Manickum, leadership begins with service, intention, and quiet strength. As a biodiversity data technician at the Natural Science Collections Facility with over nine years of experience, her role is central to preserving the legacy of South Africa’s botanical heritage, digitally capturing what nature and history have written.

Rooted in Biology and Faith

Maxine’s scientific journey is grounded in a lifelong love for biology and a deep spiritual foundation. In moments of challenge or fatigue, she draws strength from her faith:

“By continuously seeking God. When I am found in God’s presence, He refreshes my soul.”

This spiritual grounding fuels her passion and perseverance, especially when navigating moments of career stagnation. Rather than settling, Maxine continues to actively learn new skills, demonstrating a quiet resilience and commitment to growth.

Digitisation for Generations

Maxine views her work not just as technical but transformational. Each record she helps digitise or georeference is a building block for the future; one that can serve researchers, educators, and conservationists for generations.

“The work I do will last for generations and will benefit generations to come.”

This long-view perspective is what makes her and her team powerful contributors to the NSCF’s mission.

Leadership, by Example and Empowerment

Though naturally an introvert (a fact that may surprise many), Maxine embraces her potential as a democratic leader, valuing humility, teachability, and a passion for serving others.

“Hopefully the organisers saw some potential in me.”

She already lives this potential in her daily work: helping colleagues, sharing knowledge, and playing an active role in building a supportive workplace.

Her vision of leadership includes mentorship and impartation, where experienced individuals guide and uplift others, ensuring continuity and care in the collections sector.

Workshop Goals

Maxine is eager to explore practical tools to engage the leader within, strategies to lead and teach others, and new ways to grow in a challenging, evolving sector, with the hope of becoming a leader who not only manages collections but also empowers people.

Looking Ahead

For Maxine, raising awareness about natural science collections is key to unlocking their future relevance:

“Few people know or use natural collections. We need to change that.”

She believes the stories of younger professionals, especially those who’ve faced and overcome challenges, are powerful tools for transformation—both within institutions and in communities.

More Than Her Title

When not digitising legacy specimens, Maxine enjoys reading, watching movies, and sightseeing. However, her most impactful work in her spare time involves planning and executing charity drives in her community with her non-profit organisation called Agape Foundation.

Her favourite memory so far? Completing her Master of Science degree and seeing her article published on the SANBI website was a proud moment that added her voice and contribution to the field.

Though introverted, Maxine leads by example, and her journey reflects a truth that the NSCF Emerging Leaders Workshop celebrates: leadership doesn’t always shout—it often shines.

One of her favourite quotes:

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr.