Leading with Light in the Lowveld
For Nikisha Singh, passion and purpose intertwine in the field of natural science collections. Now based in Skukuza at the heart of Kruger National Park, she works as the senior biotechnician for the Biological Reference Collection, a role that merges data, education, curation, and fieldwork in one of the most biodiverse landscapes in the world.
Nikisha’s journey into collections began during her undergraduate studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where a biology practical introduced her to the Bews Herbarium. That moment sparked a lifelong fascination with preserved plant specimens and the stories they carry.
“I fell in love with the pressed plant specimens and the history the herbarium held,” she recalls. “I would volunteer between lectures, mounting specimens; it felt like second nature.”
From volunteering to postgraduate contract work with SANBI to her current role with SANParks since 2020, Nikisha’s six-year path has been marked by dedication and an ever-expanding skill set. Her current responsibilities range from collection care, digitisation, and research support to biodiversity data management, SOP development, and coordinating educational and field-based activities.
“One of the most magical moments for me is when someone walks into the collection space for the first time and has that childlike wonder. Being able to share the stories behind the flora and fauna of Kruger never gets old.”
While she thrives in the dynamic pace of her role, relocating far from family and adapting to a new environment was a major early challenge. But with support from her supervisor, colleagues, and the unshakeable encouragement of her parents, she found her feet.
“Museum curation was new to me, but the guidance I received helped me understand my tasks and the quality of work expected. I’m now part of a team that’s always ready to offer support.”
Nikisha describes her leadership approach as situational, adaptive and responsive to context. Whether mentoring young students or collaborating with experienced colleagues, she tailors her style to what’s needed.
“Leadership is not one size fits all. With students, I take the lead. With peers, I collaborate. That flexibility is key.”
She believes her nomination to the NSCF Emerging Leaders Workshop is a reflection of her visible passion and steady growth. Having already benefitted from the first workshop, she is eager to build stronger networks and collaborate with others in the collections community.
“I want to contribute to safe workspaces and exchange knowledge that helps us all be more efficient and empowered in our roles.”
Nikisha has also learnt to embrace imperfection in pursuit of progress.
“I’m a perfectionist at heart, but I’ve realised that outputs matter more than perfection. Balance, planning, and focusing on one task at a time has made my work more productive.”
She hopes to see greater collaboration between institutions and more training, support, and shared resources in the collections field. Her vision includes empowering young scientists and expanding access to tools, technologies, and mentorship opportunities.
“Young people bring energy, innovation, and creativity. In the digital era, they can lead us into new ways of preserving and showcasing our collections through AI, mobile apps, and exciting outreach programmes.”
Among her standout memories is a field trip in 2021 collecting freshwater fish specimens, her first real expedition through Kruger’s rivers.
“I learnt how to ID fish, saw the park from south to north, and found my new favourite species: the Bulldog fish (Marcusenius macrolepidotus). It was exhilarating.”
When not in the lab or field, Nikisha finds peace in nature walks, sunset watching, and game drives, letting the rhythm of the wild replenish her energy. Her guiding light is a powerful quote often attributed to Marianne Williamson:
“We are all meant to shine, as children do… As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
For Nikisha, leadership isn’t about position; it’s about presence, purpose, and the power to inspire. And as she continues to grow, learn, and share, she’s ensuring that the legacy of