The Women Power Africa platform has been dedicated to showcasing the accomplishments of women in Africa, with a particular focus on those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics). This platform consistently provides substantial support to women, commemorating their achievements distinctively. Recognizing the pivotal role of disseminating the successes of women to inspire and motivate others, Elevation News presents an exceptional narrative originally featured by Women Power Africa.
Among several PhD holders Elevation New highlighted in this year, the discourse seldom centres on individuals attaining professorial positions. Yet, here emerges a remarkable tale of a gifted Zimbabwean woman who shattered the proverbial glass ceiling, achieving a significant academic milestone.
Professor Musawenkosi Donia Saurombe accomplished the great feat of obtaining a PhD in Industrial Psychology from North-West University at the age of 23, securing the distinction of being the youngest female PhD graduate in Africa. By the age of 28, she had ascended to the position of Associate Professor of Industrial Psychology at the University of Johannesburg.
Professor Musa was born in Zimbabwe, raised in Botswana, and presently resides in South Africa. Her academic journey commenced at the age of 16 when she embarked on undergraduate studies at North-West University in South Africa. By the age of 19, she had earned a BCom in Human Resources Management, followed by a BCom Honours in Human Resources Management at 20.
Subsequently, at the age of 21, she completed a Master of Commerce (MCom) in Human Resources Management, and by 23, she had obtained a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Industrial Psychology from North-West University, solidifying her status as the youngest female PhD holder in Africa. Notably, her PhD thesis, focused on “The Management Perspectives on a Talent Value Proposition for Academic Staff in a South African Higher Education Institution,” passed without corrections.
Following this achievement, Professor Saurombe contributed as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at North-West University and later as a Senior Lecturer at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein. In 2021, she joined the University of Johannesburg, where she was swiftly promoted to the position of Associate Professor in 2022. In this capacity, she imparts knowledge in Human Resource Management and Industrial Psychology while overseeing postgraduate research.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Professor Saurombe distinguishes herself as a civic innovator, particularly in matters pertaining to women and youth. Her research interests span talent and performance management, talent management of academic staff, women’s talent, the psychological contract, and employee value proposition.
Accumulating accolades and scholarships throughout her career, Professor Musa stands as a recipient of the Emerging Psychologist of the Year award from the Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology of South Africa (SIOPSA) in July 2017, among other notable recognitions.
In addition to her academic roles, Professor Saurombe holds positions as an Editorial Fellow at the American Psychological Association, an Advisory Board Member at Women Power Africa, an Academic Editor at PLOS, and a Research Supervisor at STADIO Higher Education.
Reflecting on her journey, Professor Musawenkosi Donia Saurombe emphasizes the influence of her upbringing, stating, “Coming from a household where my parents have had to make so many sacrifices to ensure that my siblings and I got a better start to life has always compelled me to thrive as much as I can in all my endeavours. It is always important to remember that though pursuing success often entails significant struggle, if you commit to pushing through the barriers, it will only be temporary.” African women are rising.
