Nonkululeko Ntshangase: Leading with Integrity, Rooted in Nature
For Nonkululeko Ntshangase, her career began where many profound stories do — in the rural landscapes of her childhood. “I didn’t even know what Botany was,” she recalls. But when applying to university, she explained to the dean a memory from home: collecting Cymbopogon nardus (a medicinal plant used by her grandmother) to treat her cousins’ acne. As fate would have it, during her internship, she was assigned to work on the very same plant. “Nature chose me,” she says with a smile.
Today, Nonkululeko is a Herbarium Technician at SANBI, where her role blends data coordination, project management, and staff supervision. With nine years in the field and a Master’s degree under her belt, she continues to lead from the ground up, advocating for growth, learning, and a deeper connection to the value of plant collections.
Facing Resistance with Calm and Collaboration
Nonkululeko describes her leadership style as collaborative, believing in shared responsibility and open dialogue. She acknowledges that one of her biggest challenges has been staff resistance to change, especially when introducing new systems or methods. But she’s found a way forward by constantly learning, particularly in data analysis and new digital tools, and by leaning into her calm, grounded presence.
She credits her first NSCF Emerging Leaders Workshop with a profound shift in her mindset:
“I haven’t cried since attending the workshop. I’m able to remain calm in challenging situations.”
Leadership with Integrity and Impact
As she joins the 2025 Emerging Leaders cohort, Nonkululeko hopes to sharpen her ability to lead with impact, communicate effectively, and navigate team dynamics with wisdom and clarity. She draws inspiration from leaders who lead with integrity and authenticity—those whose values are reflected in their daily actions.
Looking ahead, she envisions a sector built on ubuntu—people working together with compassion and mutual respect. She believes young people can shape the future of natural science collections through fresh perspectives, digital skills, and a commitment to sustainability. From digitization to global data-sharing, she sees an exciting horizon for the next generation.
Resilient, Analytical, and Determined
A self-confessed perfectionist, Nonkululeko says, “I don’t like losing. I don’t sleep until I’ve solved a complex task.” Whether it’s technical troubleshooting or human dynamics, she tackles it head-on.
In her downtime, she unwinds with novels, and she’s looking forward to the fun and games aspect of the workshop—especially those that bring out her competitive side. Her favorite quote is one that perfectly encapsulates her proactive spirit:
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
With a story rooted in heritage and a vision firmly focused on the future, Nonkululeko Ntshangase stands ready to lead with purpose, heart, and unwavering integrity.