Cancer Research Project Highlight of Summa Cum Laude Graduate’s UKZN Experience

Ms Sonam Sahadeo was awarded an Honours degree in Medical Biochemistry summa cum laude, making her parents, family, friends and supervisors proud as punch!

‘It’s humbling and feels surreal, I just aimed to do my best consistently,’ said Sahadeo. ‘Being recognised in this way is an honour and reinforces the fact that hard work, sacrifices, and discipline make a difference and are well worth it.’

Sahadeo’s research project on cancer was a highlight of her UKZN experience. ‘I investigated a compound called TN-09 and its cytotoxic effects on liver cancer cells, which deepened my interest in how potential treatments can target cancer at a cellular level,’ she said. ‘I also enjoyed the presentations and the opportunity to engage deeply with complex topics. But it wasn’t just the academics – the overall journey, the people I met and the friendships established along the way made the experience unforgettable.’

Sahadeo said she had always been drawn to Medicine and healthcare, with a strong desire to help people. ‘When I didn’t get into Medical School, I chose to pursue Biomedical Science with Unisa, hoping it would still lead me into the health field. After completing that degree and struggling to find employment, this opportunity allowed me to stay within the field I’m passionate about, deepen my understanding, and keep moving forward toward my long-term goals,’ she said.

‘There were times when it wasn’t easy but I tried my best to stay consistent even when things felt overwhelming. I made it a habit to push though and remind myself why I started in the first place. The support from my parents, family, friends and God carried me through more than I can say.’

Sahadeo is now an Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) Fellow, and is pursuing her masters with a focus on virology and immunology.

She remembers growing up in Phoenix, Durban, and spending the majority of her life in Malelane in Mpumalanga province where she matriculated at Beacon College in 2018, scoring four distinctions and a decent overall average.

Sahadeo thanked God for His unyielding support and her parents for their unconditional love and many sacrifices. ‘My supervisor, Dr Terisha Ghazi, has been both a pillar of strength and a friend. I also made a great friend, Mr Ashmit Sankar, who graduated alongside me after spending countless long nights studying with me. I’m also thankful for my supportive peers and the lecturers in the Biochemistry Department – a shoutout to Dr Rene Khan – and people who were rooting for me, even from a distance.’

Sahadeo aims to gain as much practical experience as possible at AHRI and then possibly explore lecturing and pursuing a PhD down the line.

Her hobbies include reading, listening to music, exercising, exploring new places, and going out. ‘I also game a bit. Honestly, anything that brings me peace and helps me recharge is a win for me.

Words: Lunga Memela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini