Honouring the Past, Safeguarding the Future: The Story of Dieketseng Palesa Shemfe
For Ms Dieketseng Palesa Shemfe, Senior Laboratory Technician and PhD candidate in the Discipline of Medical Microbiology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), every milestone she achieves is a tribute to the woman who taught her the transformative power of education, resilience and kindness.
Originally from Mahikeng in the North West, Shemfe has built an impressive academic foundation, holding a Bachelor of Science in Biological and Environmental Sciences, with majors in Microbiology and Biochemistry; an Honours in Microbiology; and a Master’s in Medical Microbiology. Today, she supports departmental teaching and research by managing Medical Microbiology lab facilities, coordinating postgraduate training labs, and overseeing a high-containment Biosafety Level 3 laboratory dedicated to research on dangerous airborne pathogens.
Her passion for medical research was sparked by a deeply personal experience. “The birth of my younger brother, who has Down syndrome, made me curious about human health and biology. That curiosity eventually inspired me to pursue a career in medical research,” she said.
Describing herself as passionate, determined and resilient, Shemfe says these qualities have been shaped by life’s challenges, none more profound than the loss of her mother. The defining chapter of her personal and professional journey began when her mother, Ms Elizabeth Diedile Maleke, was diagnosed with cancer. Two years later, her passing left an immense void—and a legacy that continues to anchor her daughter’s life. “Walking that journey alongside my mother, and subsequently learning to continue life without her, was incredibly difficult. However, the experience deepened my faith, strengthened my resilience and helped shape me into the woman I am today.
“My mother placed great emphasis on education and independence, particularly for young women. She often reminded me that education is a tool no one can ever take away from you,” she said, adding that to this day, those words serve as her compass, inspiring her pursuit of knowledge as she works toward her PhD and supports the next generation of scientists. “She encouraged me to continually strive to become the best version of myself. That is why, despite the challenges I encounter, I continue to seek opportunities to learn, grow and develop.”
Beyond education, her mother instilled in her the importance of kindness and lifting others up. “I believe that if women extend greater kindness and support to one another, we can help build a more compassionate and empowering society.”
In a heartfelt tribute, Shemfe credits every success she enjoys today to the sacrifices her mother made. “Although she is no longer physically present, her legacy continues to live through me. I hope to honour that legacy by inspiring other young women to recognise their worth, embrace opportunities, invest in their development and make the most of every chance they receive.”
Noting her one her proudest professional achievements, Shemfe said contributing to the successful upgrade of UKZN’s Medical Microbiology laboratory from Biosafety Level 2 to Biosafety Level 3 is one of her proudest moments. This facility, she said, enables researchers to study highly infectious airborne pathogens safely and supports research aimed at addressing major public health challenges. “Knowing that my work contributes to scientific progress and the protection of laboratory personnel makes this achievement especially meaningful.”
Women’s Month, she says, is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience and strength of women while acknowledging the challenges they continue to overcome. “It reminds me that women are often much stronger and more capable than we realise.” She actively encourages and celebrates the achievements of women within her department, from students to staff members, believing that recognising even the smallest accomplishments builds confidence and inspires future success.
Looking ahead, Shemfe is excited to complete her PhD and advance her research career, with a vision of ensuring that her work has a tangible impact on people’s lives. “I want to conduct research that does not simply remain on a shelf, but reaches ordinary people and makes a meaningful difference in their health and daily lives.”
She hopes to leave a legacy of excellence, service and lasting impact at UKZN, ensuring that her contributions continue to benefit students, colleagues and researchers for years to come.
Her message to women and girls this Women’s Month reflects the lessons that have guided her own journey. “Believe in yourself, pursue education and work towards personal and financial independence. Most importantly, let us support one another rather than compete or tear each other down. When women lead with kindness and uplift one another, we all become stronger.”
For Shemfe, every achievement is more than a personal success—it is the continuation of a mother’s dream and a reminder that resilience, compassion and education have the power to transform lives across generations.
Author: Nombuso Dlamini
