Women in Research

CESAR is celebrating women in research for Women’s Month. Our first feature is dedicated to Meghan Malaatjie, who is currently completing her MSc in Epidemiology in the field of Public Health Informatics.

MEGHAN MALAATJIE

“It’s a celebration of previous generations of beautiful women who sacrificed and laid a strong foundation.”

How long have you worked at CESAR?

2 years.

What does Women’s Month mean to you?

It’s a time where we can pause and reflect on how far we have come as women, the opportunities we now have access to and the ability to raise our voices and be heard. It’s a celebration of previous generations of beautiful women who sacrificed and laid a strong foundation so that we can not only enjoy the rewards thereof but also build on for coming generations.

Why do we need more women in research?

Despite the strives we’ve made with gender inequalities, alot of women still bare the brunt of social and economic consequences. I can’t think of a world where those issues are addressed without the input of women.

Who has inspired your journey and what words of encouragement would you give to those who aspire to be in the same career?

My desire to pursue a career in research stemmed largely from the community I grew up in and many other communities that faced similar challenges. I wanted a career where instead of merely sitting and pointing out what’s wrong, I could have an input in identifying and addressing the root problems, that has been my biggest inspiration.

My advice to anyone who aspires for a career in research would be to understand why you want to pursue the career. Once you know your “why” putting in the hard work will be second nature.