UKZN Academic Recognised in M&G Power of Women Awards

UKZN Academic Recognised in M&G Power of Women Awards

Professor Mariam Seedat-Khan, an internationally certified Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology (AACS) clinical sociologist within UKZN’s School of Social Sciences, is the 2024 recipient of the Mail & Guardian’s Power of Women in Education award.

This prestigious national annual award event honours South Africa’s women frontrunners recognising their professional achievements and showcasing their transformative contributions. The Mail & Guardian has prioritised profiling the work of inspirational women in its 18-year-old Power of Women initiative that honours exemplary South African women.

This year’s, theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Women Empowerment”, paid tribute to a unique cohort of change-makers, who have excelled above and beyond expectations in a time of great uncertainty, change and loss.

Seedat-Khan was recognised and celebrated for her role and career in Higher Education, marked by her commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering social change through research and scholarly contributions. Her most notable work is a book titled: Women and Covid-19: A Clinical and Applied Sociological Focus on Family, Work and Community, which provides insight into the pandemic experiences of women globally.

Seedat-Khan’s expertise extends beyond traditional sociology, encompassing applied and clinical aspects that address real-world issues. She holds numerous leadership, board and trustee positions, reflecting her contribution and commitment to advancing social sciences globally.

‘My greatest academic achievement lies in my contributions to the field of clinical sociology, particularly my work that supports other women,’ she said. ‘As a collective of women our work has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of critical gendered issues and has influenced policy and social change.’

Seedat-Khan is a strong believer in supporting other women, regarding it as a privilege. ‘By nurturing their growth and success, we build a stronger, more inclusive future for all women in academia and beyond. When women support each other, incredible things happen. Empowering another woman is not only an act of kindness but a powerful catalyst for change and growth.’

Words: Jennene Naidu

Photograph: Supplied