First Black Female PhD Graduate in Science (Wits) | Advisory Board Member @NACI
Climate & Disaster Risk Expert | M&G Top 200 South Africans (2020)
#1millionwomeninSTEM Ambassador | ESG Professional
In the vibrant landscape of academia and environmental advocacy, Dr. Nomhle Ngwenya stands as a beacon of inspiration. At just 25, she made history as the youngest and first black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Geography and Environmental Sciences from the prestigious University of the Witwatersrand. Her journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Dr. Ngwenya's academic path began with exceptional performance during her Honours program, which led to her promotion to Ph.D. candidacy. Armed with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours (cum laude) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Geography and Sociology, she embarked on a groundbreaking project that explored innovative financial mechanisms in the bond market to finance South Africa's transition to a low-carbon economy. Her research not only contributed to the scientific community but also aimed to impact future generations, especially inspiring black women to pursue careers in STEM fields. As an Independent ESG, Climate Risk, and Disaster Management Specialist, Dr. Ngwenya leverages her extensive expertise to foster strategic partnerships that implement effective adaptation and mitigation strategies across various sectors. Her experience includes working as a Climate Risk Analyst at Nedbank and serving as a Global Shaper at the World Economic Forum, where she contributed to significant initiatives, including a climate finance education project. This project aimed to educate young people about green investments and their role in addressing climate change—a pressing issue for South Africa and beyond.
Dr. Ngwenya’s voice resonates not just in boardrooms but in advisory roles too; she is a member of the National Advisory Council on Innovation, providing strategic advice on science, technology, and innovation development in South Africa. Her vision is clear: to leave a legacy of empowerment and to position Africa as the superpower it deserves to be in the global arena.
With her work focusing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, climate risk analysis, and sustainable finance, she embodies the spirit of the #1millionwomeninSTEM campaign. Dr. Ngwenya is dedicated to creating a platform where young women can thrive in scientific research and innovation, fostering a new generation of leaders committed to sustainability and climate action.
Her story is a reminder that the challenges of today can be transformed into the opportunities of tomorrow. As she continues her quest to bridge the gap between climate science and practical implementation, Dr. Nomhle Ngwenya stands tall as a visionary, a leader, and a true humanitarian.
Her journey is not just a personal achievement; it’s an invitation to the youth—especially young women—to dream big, break barriers, and drive change in a world ripe with possibilities. Through her hard work and innovative spirit, she proves that the future is not just something we enter; it's something we create together.
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