Determined graduate overcomes adversity to improve food security with sauerkraut

by
1 min read
Sauerkraut.

Mbali Ngcamu, a recent graduate of Stellenbosch University, has faced numerous challenges throughout her academic and professional journey. However, her tenacity and determination have led her to achieve her goals and positively impact her community.

Overcoming setbacks

Ngcamu’s visual impairment ended her career as a radiographer, but she refused to give up. She opened a bakery franchise to support her family, only to face discrimination and oppression as an African woman in business. Despite this setback, Ngcamu continued her education and completed a BA in Social Sciences and a BCom in Small Business Development to help other female entrepreneurs.

Exploring disability entrepreneurship

Ngcamu’s commitment to empowering women led her to enroll in a postgraduate diploma in disability studies at the University of Cape Town. Her research focused on the challenges faced by disabled female entrepreneurs and ways to overcome them.

Pursuing optimal health

When Ngcamu was diagnosed with a life-threatening thyroid condition, she recognized the importance of nutrition and enrolled in a nutrition diploma program. Her experimentation with fermented foods led her to find a company that promoted gut health and advised against harmful foods.

Improving food security

Ngcamu’s passion for nutrition and community led her to pursue an MSc in Food Nutrition and Security at Stellenbosch University. Her thesis, “The effects of sauerkraut on human health, nutrition, and food security: a literature review,” explores ways to process cabbage locally to improve food security and nutrition.

A resilient spirit

Despite her impaired vision and the loss of her home in flooding, Ngcamu remains determined to make a positive impact. She established a gut health practice and collaborates with the Technology Innovation Agency on a food bank project. In addition, Ngcamu plans to start a Ph.D. in 2024.

Ngcamu’s unwavering resilience and perseverance serve as an inspiration to all of us. Her dedication to creating a better, more inclusive world is something we can all learn from and strive towards.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

SAPS corruption and abalone trade
Previous Story

Seven SAPS Members Arrested on Charges of Corruption Linked to Abalone Trade

Murder of Elderly Hiker
Next Story

Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Murder of Elderly Hiker

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.