Grounded in faith. Growing through service. Leading with heart.
“I have the strength through the One who gives me power.” – Philippians 4:13
For Siyabonga Tibini, Senior Technical Assistant at SANBI’s National Herbarium (PRE), this verse isn’t just a source of comfort; it’s a daily reminder of the purpose and power behind his journey in natural science collections. A passionate botanist, mentor, and emerging leader, Siyabonga blends technical skill, spiritual grounding, and quiet confidence to make a tangible impact on the collections he stewards and the people he works alongside.
With over four years of experience and a master’s degree in botany under his belt, Siyabonga coordinates the bustling activities of Wing C at PRE, overseeing the movement of specimens, engaging with visiting researchers, and ensuring the smooth flow of physical and digital curation.
“My core responsibilities include sorting and filing specimens and verifying data in BRAHMS,” he explains. “It’s about making sure the physical and digital records align, because accurate data is essential to good science.”
He is also a key player in SANBI’s Mass Digitisation Project, a transformative effort to barcode and image herbarium specimens for online access. His role ensures that Africa’s rich plant diversity doesn’t remain locked in cabinets but is digitised for researchers, students, and conservationists worldwide.
But Siyabonga’s story isn’t only about data and plants; it’s about people, mentorship, and purpose. His passion for biodiversity was shaped by a conversation with a supervisor, where Siyabonga asked a simple but powerful question: Why are so many medicinal plants studied but not turned into products? That moment sparked a desire in him to bridge research with real-world applications.
“That question shifted my perspective. I realised I wanted to help preserve biodiversity but also contribute to science that leads to real, tangible benefits for communities.”
His leadership style is democratic and inclusive; he believes in creating space for every team member to contribute meaningfully. During wing meetings, Siyabonga ensures everyone has a voice and feels part of the collective mission.
“Collaboration and shared responsibility bring out the best in teams. I want people to feel they’re not just working with me but working together.”
A pivotal moment in his career was choosing between a full-time PhD and work experience. Opting to join SANBI as an intern turned out to be a defining decision. Within the same year, he earned a permanent position; proof that staying open to new opportunities and trusting the process can lead to growth.
“It wasn’t easy at the time, but this path has allowed me to upskill and grow in ways I didn’t expect.”
Now, as he looks toward a PhD on his favourite genus, Cyphostemma in the Vitaceae family, he’s already thinking beyond his own future. He dreams of a sector where young people are not only participants but leaders.
“Young people can shape the future of collections by bringing fresh ideas and embracing technology. We just need the platform and guidance to lead.”
Siyabonga is committed to being part of that change, leading by example, sharing knowledge, and mentoring the next generation of botanists. He hopes the Emerging Leaders Workshop will help him refine his leadership abilities by learning from both seasoned professionals and fellow young leaders.
“I was nominated because someone saw potential in me. I want to grow into that potential, not just for myself but for others who are still finding their voice.”
Outside the herbarium, Siyabonga is an Afrohouse music lover, a spiritual man who preaches about Jehovah, and, surprisingly, a talented iPhone fixer.
“Bring me your phone; I’ll show you what I can do,” he says with a grin.
Whether he’s digitising a rare specimen, leading a team discussion, or dancing to Afrohouse in his downtime, Siyabonga brings passion, purpose, and a strong sense of calling to everything he does. His journey is just beginning, but his impact is already clear: a young leader rooted in faith, driven by vision, and building bridges between science, society, and the next generation.