Growing up in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Nodumo Zulu dared to dream beyond her circumstances. Now rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s leading scientists, her journey is proof that dreams, no matter how big or where they originate, are absolutely valid!
Cape Town, South Africa (11 February 2025) – Although countless obstacles exist along the path to realising some of our greatest dreams or becoming our best selves, the inspiring journey of Dr Nodumo Zulu from eNkonjeni in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal, is proof that odds are defiable and that achieving greatness is possible no matter where you come from.
Born and raised in rural KZN, Dr Zulu has grown to become a true trailblazer! The qualified chemical engineer and research officer works at the University of Cape Town’s Centre for Bioprocess Engineering Research (CeBER) in the algal biotechnology space.
Here, she researches and develops sustainable production processes.
“We optimise the production processes to recover products from biological matter in a sustainable and cost-effective way,” she explains in a video.
Through her groundbreaking algal innovations, she has made significant strides in her career and empowering other young women to do the same, lies close to her heart.
Zulu encourages young black women from rural areas to dream big, emphasising that where they come from should never limit where they can go.
“What I would say to a young girl, especially from a rural area and underrepresented groups would be to not let where you come from define you. I never thought I would be where I am coming from Ulundi but I’ve been rubbing shoulders with the world’s best scientists,” she shares.
Zulu uses her background as motivation to push her to discover products or novel technologies that could be used to address and mitigate the challenges experienced back in her community.
With determination and focus, Dr Zulu is proving that excellence knows no boundaries.
Sources: University of Cape Town
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 