Sinethemba Ntshangase: Quiet Strength in the Service of Science
For Sinethemba Ntshangase, working in the herbarium is more than a job; it’s a purposeful path grounded in a passion for taxonomy and a belief in the power of natural science collections to support research, education, and discovery. With a Masters degree from the University of Pretoria, Sinethemba has spent the last six years contributing to the institution’s herbarium through databasing, administration, assisting in research projects, and supporting both staff and students in teaching and practicals.
“I’ve always been interested in taxonomy,” Sinethemba says. “Natural science collections play a major role in that.”
That enduring interest in taxonomy is what led her into the collections field, and it continues to fuel her work. What keeps her inspired? A clear sense of purpose. “Having a goal keeps me motivated,” she shares.
For Sinethemba, the most rewarding part of her role is engaging with students and learning about the diverse range of projects they bring into the herbarium. “It’s always exciting to see what new research is happening and to play a part in it,” she says. She hasn’t encountered major challenges yet, but she approaches her work with focus and calm determination.
When it comes to leadership, Sinethemba believes in action and visibility. “I’m a firm believer in leading from the front—taking initiative and participating in the work.”
She sees her nomination for the Emerging Leaders Workshop as recognition of her capabilities and readiness to grow. “My potential is not hidden,” she says with a smile. Through this programme, she hopes to gain new inspiration, meet others who are further along in their leadership journey, and be encouraged by their example.
She admires leadership that is rooted in patience, trust, and calmness—qualities she aspires to model in her own career. Although she wasn’t part of the previous Emerging Leaders Immersion, she’s eager to contribute to this phase of the learning journey.
“I’d like to see more staff being employed and trained. I believe in encouraging leadership at higher levels to understand this need.”
For Sinethemba, advocacy begins with visibility and making a strong case for collections: “By learning the skills to digitize correctly and improve partnerships, we ensure data becomes more accessible and valuable.”
Despite her reserved nature, Sinethemba’s warmth and approachability shine through. “I’m a shy person,” she admits, “but I hide it behind smiles and being chatty.”
Her fondest work memory? The kindness she received when she first joined the herbarium. “The warmth from colleagues made me feel at home. That’s when I knew I would enjoy working with collections.”
When she’s not at work, you’ll most likely find Sinethemba at the gym. “I’m what we call a gym bunny,” she laughs.
She lives by the words of Confucius:
“It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you don’t stop.”
For Sinethemba, the journey matters just as much as the destination, and she’s in it for the long haul, one plant specimen at a time.