Qualifications: BSc. Molecular and Life Science (University of Limpopo), BSs. Honours Zoology (University of Pretoria), MSc. Zoology (University of Pretoria), Currently studying Bed. Honours Life Science education (University of Pretoria)
Q: What inspired you to make this career choice?
A: Birds are everywhere, but little is known about them. I wanted to know more about birds, the moment I held a bird in my hands and felt its tiny heartbeat, I knew I will probably spend my lifetime conserving these animals and teaching people about them. I did not plan to work at a museum, It happened by fate. As an ornithologist, it is a privilege to be selected to apply my ornithological skills in a museum setting.
Q: Give a brief description of what your job entails
A: Museum specimens are a national treasure. Curators have to continuously inspect the collection to ensure that the specimens are in good shape. In addition to my own research, I have to also assist external stakeholders such as other researchers with their queries regarding the collection, e.g.: requests to loan specimens for their research and images of specimens. I also facilitate visits to the collection. Lastly, I have a responsibility to participate in the public programmes unit of our museum, which is a platform for curators to share collection knowledge and information on the collection objects with the community.
Q: How does it contribute to Collections Management?
A: Collection management tasks such as verification, accessioning and conservation of specimens form part of a curators daily work.
Q: What is the most exciting aspect of your job?
A: Having access to study the diverse South African bird species, and contributing to a collection legacy that was founded by Dr. Austin Roberts, who is a legend in the field of Ornithology.
Q: What advice would you give to young people considering a career within Scientific Collections Management?
A: Go for it, WORK HARD, get qualified. If you have questions: ask, and approach collections facilities with an offer to volunteer in their daily work so that you are familiar with that specific environment.
Q: What does Leadership mean to you?
A: Leadership means being brave enough to put yourself on the line of accountability, being content with seeing things differently , being driven by purpose, pushing yourself forward to new territories while pulling everyone behind you, and living an honest, fulfilling life.