WSU CELEBRATES ANELISA MAHLINZA: A RISING VOICE IN WATER AND ENVIROMENT SCIENCE

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) continues its celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by profiling women who are shaping the future of research, innovation and community development.

Among those making meaningful strides is Environmental Scientist and Geographer, Anelisa Mahlinza, whose work focuses on water quality, wetlands and sustainable environmental management.

Mahlinza’s academic journey is deeply rooted in her passion for understanding how natural systems can improve water quality and support community well-being.

Currently pursuing her Master’s research, she is investigating how land use and land cover changes affect river systems.

Through field sampling, laboratory analysis and data interpretation, her research contributes to evidence-based environmental planning and conservation efforts aimed at protecting vital water resources.

Her path into science was shaped by lived experience.

Growing up in a community that frequently experienced water shortages, Mahlinza recalls witnessing the challenges faced by households without fully understanding their causes.

It was during a high school Geography lesson, where she learnt that communities rely heavily on rivers as water sources, that her perspective shifted.

Mahlinza began observing how pollution, waste disposal and neglect were contributing to the deterioration of rivers in her community, despite some flowing throughout the year.

This realisation inspired her to pursue a career dedicated to protecting and managing water systems to ensure communities do not continue to face the same challenges.

Mahlinza believes the planet’s sustainability depends on responsible planning, scientific knowledge and accountable leadership.

Through her research on wetlands and water quality, she is working towards becoming part of the informed leadership needed to strengthen environmental resilience and sustainability.

As WSU continues to celebrate women advancing scientific knowledge, Mahlinza encourages young women and girls to pursue careers in science with confidence.

She shares a message of empowerment, urging them to embrace spaces traditionally perceived as intimidating.

“Do not be intimidated by laboratories, statistics, or research spaces. You belong there. Your background, your experiences and your questions matter. The solutions to our environmental challenges will come from women who are bold enough to step forward and use science to serve their communities,” she said.

Through initiatives such as this campaign, WSU continues to spotlight women whose research and leadership contribute towards building sustainable communities and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

By: Yolanda Palezweni