I have known Dawn since 2011 as my mentor for the DST-NRF Internship programme during the 2011/12 period at TIA, National Genomics Platform. When we met I had completed my BSc honors degree and had little interest in research due to a lack of knowledge at that time. She was always there for me to provide advice and guidance in my career decisions. She made me focus and set career goals that I have never considered before. For example, I now hold a Ph.D. degree because of her advice and encouragement. She gave me an opportunity to network with experienced researchers by attending workshops and conferences. Furthermore, she did not only grow me academically but also personally. More importantly, coming from very humble beginnings, I am an example to other young black females on how personal determination and education can positively impact a person’s life when you have an excellent, selfless, and dedicated mentor.

Dawn was an invaluable mentor, directly involved in supervising my internship program at TIA, National Genomics Platform. Through her knowledge, experience, guidance and impeccable teaching expertise, I obtained a greater understanding of molecular biology. During my time at TIA, Dawn was the senior scientist involved in effectively managing a metagenomics sequencing project; while patiently and attentively ensuring I was equipped with the theoretical and practical knowledge to develop my skills in a research facility. Dawn has the ability to identify strengths in an individual and guide them to successfully use these skills to progress in their field of interest. Any organisation requiring growth and development will benefit from Dawn's vision and leadership skills.

I have known Dawn since 2011 as my mentor for the DST-NRF Internship programme during the 2011/12 period at TIA, National Genomics Platform. When we met I had completed my BSc honors degree and had little interest in research due to a lack of knowledge at that time. She was always there for me to provide advice and guidance in my career decisions. She made me focus and set career goals that I have never considered before. For example, I now hold a Ph.D. degree because of her advice and encouragement. She gave me an opportunity to network with experienced researchers by attending workshops and conferences. Furthermore, she did not only grow me academically but also personally. More importantly, coming from very humble beginnings, I am an example to other young black females on how personal determination and education can positively impact a person’s life when you have an excellent, selfless, and dedicated mentor.

Dawn was an invaluable mentor, directly involved in supervising my internship program at TIA, National Genomics Platform. Through her knowledge, experience, guidance and impeccable teaching expertise, I obtained a greater understanding of molecular biology. During my time at TIA, Dawn was the senior scientist involved in effectively managing a metagenomics sequencing project; while patiently and attentively ensuring I was equipped with the theoretical and practical knowledge to develop my skills in a research facility. Dawn has the ability to identify strengths in an individual and guide them to successfully use these skills to progress in their field of interest. Any organisation requiring growth and development will benefit from Dawn's vision and leadership skills.

I have known Dawn since 2011 as my mentor for the DST-NRF Internship programme during the 2011/12 period at TIA, National Genomics Platform. When we met I had completed my BSc honors degree and had little interest in research due to a lack of knowledge at that time. She was always there for me to provide advice and guidance in my career decisions. She made me focus and set career goals that I have never considered before. For example, I now hold a Ph.D. degree because of her advice and encouragement. She gave me an opportunity to network with experienced researchers by attending workshops and conferences. Furthermore, she did not only grow me academically but also personally. More importantly, coming from very humble beginnings, I am an example to other young black females on how personal determination and education can positively impact a person’s life when you have an excellent, selfless, and dedicated mentor.

Dawn was an invaluable mentor, directly involved in supervising my internship program at TIA, National Genomics Platform. Through her knowledge, experience, guidance and impeccable teaching expertise, I obtained a greater understanding of molecular biology. During my time at TIA, Dawn was the senior scientist involved in effectively managing a metagenomics sequencing project; while patiently and attentively ensuring I was equipped with the theoretical and practical knowledge to develop my skills in a research facility. Dawn has the ability to identify strengths in an individual and guide them to successfully use these skills to progress in their field of interest. Any organisation requiring growth and development will benefit from Dawn's vision and leadership skills.