WIA Philanthropy Spotlight: Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe 2025 Young Leader

DISCOVER THE NEW WIA YOUNG LEADERS 2025

3 November 2025

In this week’s WIA Philanthropy Spotlight, we are glad to feature Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe, a South African Medical Biological Scientist, researcher, and advocate shaping the next generation of African scientists. Her story is one of curiosity turned purpose — and of building doors where none existed.

Puseletso, tell us about yourself and the work you do.
I am Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe, a Medical Biological Scientist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Independent Practitioner in Microbiology. Over the years, my work has revolved around advancing scientific research, mentorship, and advocacy for young African scientists.

I co-founded and currently serve as Director of the African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS), an organization dedicated to empowering BSc graduates and early-career scientists through mentorship, training, and access to professional opportunities. I also serve as Executive Director of Chapters at Shadow A Scientist (SAS), a nonprofit connecting students to hands-on research experiences and real-world exposure.

Until recently, I worked as part of the National Metabolomics Platform at North-West University, focusing on newborn screening and rare disease diagnostics — a field that deepened my belief in the power of science to save lives.

You shared a powerful quote that guides your work. Could you tell us more about it?

My journey began with a simple but profound curiosity — how can science change lives? Growing up, I was fascinated by discovery and the idea that scientific research could directly improve health outcomes.

But my early career wasn’t without challenges. Access to mentorship, funding, and professional opportunities was limited, and these barriers often made progress difficult. Instead of allowing those obstacles to define me, I decided to build platforms that could make it easier for others to thrive. That decision shaped everything I do today.

You’ve already achieved so much. What are some of the milestones you’re most proud of?

There have been several defining moments in my journey.

At AIMS, we’ve grown into a vibrant community of over 1,000 members across Africa, where young scientists share opportunities, collaborate on projects, and receive mentorship.

Through Shadow A Scientist, I’ve helped lead chapters that give students hands-on experience at research centers such as the Ndlovu Research Centre — experiences that often become turning points in their academic lives.

I’ve also been fortunate to receive recognition that reinforces the importance of this work, including being named one of the 2025 Forbes Africa 30 Under 50 and featured among the Mail & Guardian’s 2024 Power of Women in STEMI for my contributions to science and advocacy.

Beyond that, I serve on the North-West University Health Research Ethics Committee (HREC) and participate in national working groups under South Africa’s Department of Health, focusing on STI diagnostics and research.

One of the most exciting chapters ahead is my selection as one of 14 Fellows for the African STARS MBA Fellowship in Healthcare Leadership, a fully funded program supported by the Mastercard Foundation. It’s an opportunity to build stronger leadership and entrepreneurial capacity that will ultimately drive innovation in Africa’s healthcare system.

You shared a powerful quote that guides your work. Could you tell us more about it?

“Create the opportunities you wish existed because sometimes, the door you’re waiting for is the one you’re meant to build.”

This quote perfectly sums up my journey. I’ve learned that waiting for the ‘perfect’ opportunity often delays progress — but when you decide to build, even from scratch, you not only open doors for yourself but also for others who will come after you.

What advice would you give to young women who aspire to make an impact?

Start where you are, with what you have. You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin creating change. Every small effort matters.

Seek out mentorship, build genuine networks, and don’t underestimate the power of collaboration. Some of the most transformative ideas come from people who were simply brave enough to start — and willing to learn along the way.

What’s next for you and your initiatives?

Right now, I’m focused on expanding AIMS’ footprint through new collaborations, scholarships, and partnerships that help young scientists across Africa access training, research, and leadership opportunities.

I’m also completing my Postgraduate Diploma in Management at North-West University, after which I’ll begin my MBA in Healthcare Leadership as part of the African STARS Fellowship. This next phase will strengthen my ability to lead sustainably and continue contributing to Africa’s scientific and healthcare innovation ecosystem.

How can people follow or support your work?

I’m always open to collaboration and partnership opportunities. You can connect with me and follow my work here:

LinkedIn (Personal): Puseletso Manyaka
AIMS & SAS: African Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS) and Shadow A Scientist

We welcome partnerships, sponsorships, and mentorship collaborations to help young African scientists gain exposure, training, and real-world experience. If you’d like to collaborate, kindly reach out via LinkedIn.