Quiet Impact, Deep Roots
Jabulile Malindi, Biodiversity Data Technician at the Natural Science Collections Facility (NSCF), is living proof that leadership doesn’t always begin with a title; it begins with purpose. Armed with a BSc (Hons) in Plant Biotechnology and Botany and two years of dedicated work in collections, Jabu has already made a lasting impression through her commitment to preserving South Africa’s biodiversity.
In her current role, she is responsible for barcoding and imaging herbarium specimens, capturing specimen data, and georeferencing records. While highly technical, her work is also deeply rooted in passion and foresight. “I saw a need for more young people to help address the taxonomic impediment,” she says, referring to the shortage of taxonomic expertise globally. Her motivation stems from the understanding that her contributions today will have lasting impacts on research, conservation, and education far into the future.
What Jabu enjoys most is the exposure to South Africa’s rich plant diversity. “Every day I encounter species I never imagined existed,” she shares. Her role also gives her insight into how different herbaria are managed, sparking a deep appreciation for the intricate care behind each curated collection.
Like many in the field, Jabu has had to navigate challenges—adapting to new technologies, delays in material delivery, staff shortages, and the constant need to tailor workflows across various institutions. Yet, her approach is consistently calm, resourceful, and collaborative. “I’ve learnt to improvise, stay open to learning, and rely on my colleagues. These experiences have taught me how to be flexible and solution-orientated.”
Her leadership style mirrors these traits. Describing it as collaborative and people-focused, she prioritises open communication and seeks input from team members, creating a space where everyone feels heard and empowered. Having witnessed the transformation of peers who attended previous Emerging Leaders workshops, she was inspired to take part herself. “Their growth made me realise that leadership isn’t something you wait for; it’s something you build.”
Through the 2025 workshop, Jabu hopes to strengthen her leadership skills, gain confidence in leading teams, and build lasting professional relationships across the collections community. Her vision for the sector includes more public awareness and appreciation of collections, moving beyond scientific circles to attract broader support, funding, and collaboration. “When given the chance, I step in to advocate for collections and promote their value,” she says.
Her journey hasn’t been a straight line. She has worked in various sectors outside science, but those roles helped her build resilience, adaptability, and a diverse skill set that she brings into her current work. “I’ve learnt that core skills, such as communication and problem-solving, are always transferable.”
One of her most vivid memories is working on Alepidea specimens: “The scent of essential oil was noticeable in every part of the plant, from the fresh, familiar smell of the rhizome to the dried fruit prepared for dissection. It was so well-preserved, it has stayed with me even years later.” Outside the herbarium, Jabu finds joy in hiking and discovering hidden culinary gems, often ending a long trail with a good meal shared in great company.
Jabu sums up her quiet but powerful motivation with grace:
“Sometimes our work in natural collections may not yield immediate results like doctors saving lives, but with passion, we remain dedicated to preserving biodiversity and supporting conservation for lasting future impact.”
And in doing so, she’s saving stories, species, and systems; one barcode, one specimen, and one meaningful connection at a time.