20th October 1951

Renowned as a pioneering chemist and distinguished professor, Dr. Tebello Nyokong is internationally celebrated for her groundbreaking research in nanotechnology and photo-dynamic therapy for cancer treatment. 

Based at Rhodes University in South Africa, Dr. Nyokong has dedicated her career to developing advanced, non-invasive cancer therapies that utilise light-activated dyes, similar to those used in fabric colouring, to target and destroy cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. Born in Lesotho and overcoming significant early hardships to pursue her education, she ultimately earned her PhD in chemistry in Canada before returning to the African continent, where she has shattered institutional barriers and established world-class research facilities.

Beyond her transformative scientific discoveries, Dr. Nyokong is a passionate advocate for sustainable development and an inspirational mentor, continually working to empower the next generation of African scientists and bridge the gap between global scientific innovation and societal well-being.