“Work to become, not to acquire.” – Elbert Hubbard

With over a decade of experience and a master’s degree behind her, Mpumelele Gumede brings wisdom, empathy, and quiet resilience to her work at SANBI. As a Principal Auxiliary Services Officer, Mpumelele’s professional journey has taken her from a childhood fascination with wildlife to a meaningful career in plant biodiversity conservation, one that continues to evolve and inspire.

Her role is multifaceted, covering mounting, physical curation, loan coordination, data input, mentoring, training, and outreach. These aren’t just technical tasks to Mpumelele; they are vital contributions to the preservation of South Africa’s rich botanical heritage.

From Wildlife Wonder to Botanical Curiosity

Mpumelele’s journey into natural science started with a sister who introduced her to wildlife and sparked an early interest in nature. That spark led her to study nature conservation, a decision grounded in love for the outdoors and ecological systems. But as fate would have it, her professional path guided her toward the world of plants, a shift that broadened her understanding of ecological interdependence and sparked a deep appreciation for botany.

“Each specimen and field observation has the potential to offer new insights,” she reflects. “It’s a never-ending adventure of discovery. I’m both humbled and excited by the massive and complex nature of the natural world.”

Rooted in Purpose, Growing with Hope

Mpumelele is no stranger to the slow, sometimes challenging climb of career progression. Despite proactive efforts—volunteering, cross-functional projects, and furthering her education—she’s faced a gradual pace of advancement. But rather than becoming discouraged, she remains hopeful and grounded.

In 2025, she completed an Advanced Diploma in Business Management with distinction, a milestone that not only expanded her strategic thinking but also equipped her with tools in organisational leadership, financial planning, and people management. For Mpumelele, this qualification deepened her understanding of what it means to lead with clarity, efficiency, and empathy in a complex institutional environment.

Her secret? Setting realistic goals, celebrating small victories, and staying connected to a supportive network. Her quiet persistence has not only kept her on track but also allowed her to become a mentor to others.

Leadership with Empathy and Purpose

Mpumelele’s leadership philosophy is centred on empathy, inclusivity, and cooperation. For her, leadership is not about competition; it’s about uplifting people. She believes in guiding rather than judging, fostering environments where team members feel valued, safe, and inspired.

“I want to help build a culture of continual learning and mutual support,” she explains. “Encouraging open communication and genuine connections among team members is critical to me; it creates a sense of belonging and purpose.”

At her core, Mpumelele is a leader who leads with heart and purpose, driven by the belief that every person brings unique value to the team.

Why the NSCF Emerging Leaders Workshop?

The NSCF Emerging Leaders Workshop 2025 comes at a pivotal time in Mpumelele’s professional life. She sees it as a space to sharpen leadership tools, reflect on personal growth, and expand her network across the collections community.

“I’m looking forward to practical strategies, new perspectives, and connections,” she says. “With my recent business qualification, I’m eager to combine technical knowledge with leadership practice, ensuring that I contribute not only as a biodiversity professional but also as an effective, forward-thinking leader.”

“Most of all, I hope to grow as a person and discover more ways to contribute meaningfully to my institution and to biodiversity conservation.”

Vision for the Future of Collections

Mpumelele dreams of a natural science sector where educational outreach, community engagement, and diversity are not just ideals but daily practice. She advocates for effective succession planning and mentorship programmes to ensure inclusive leadership development.

“I want to help shape fair systems that recognise talent early and support career growth for all,” she says. “By participating in mentorship and creating space for dialogue, I believe we can unlock potential that’s already within our teams.”

The Youth and the Power of Engagement

Mpumelele sees young people as catalysts for reimagining natural science collections—through technology, storytelling, and accessible programming. “Their ideas can bridge science and society, sparking curiosity and pride in biodiversity among their peers and communities,” she notes.

To that end, she’s passionate about creating educational content and organising community programmes that make collections more relatable and inclusive.

Beyond the Herbarium

Mpumelele’s interests go far beyond her desk. She once swam with sharks—just for the experience—and dreams of one day riding an elephant. Her favourite plant? The Wood’s cycad (Encephalartos woodii), famously known as the “loneliest plant” because no female specimens exist—making it a living, silent relic of the dinosaur age.

When she’s not curating or mentoring, you’ll likely find Mpumelele travelling, exploring, and living out her motto: “Work to become, not to acquire.”

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