UKZN PhD student, Miss World South Africa finalist and Oppenheimer Trust Memorial scholarship recipient Ms Jesmika Singh is an advocate for breast cancer awareness and education as her journey into breast cancer research is deeply personal.

At the age of 14, she lost her mother to breast cancer, which shaped her aspirations and commitment to making a difference in the fight against the disease. This personal tragedy propelled her into the field of genetics and cellular biology, where she graduated summa cum laude from UKZN before completing her honours and master’s degrees in human genetics at the University of Cape Town (UCT).

Singh is now working under a female-led team spanning UKZN, UCT and the South African Medical Research Council for her PhD, contributing to a dedicated South African cancer consortium aimed at making treatments more accessible and effective.

Singh served as class representative for her Honours in Human Genetics degree, graduating with a first-class pass. “My MSc in Medicine, specialising in Cancer Biotechnology and Immunotherapy, is one of my proudest achievements, earning 93% for my thesis – the highest ever in my lab. I value the balance between academics, outreach and other activities,” she said.

Beyond the laboratory, Singh is committed to translating scientific knowledge into actionable, life-changing awareness. She has worked extensively with the Breast Health Foundation and Eh!Woza to educate South Africans about breast cancer, particularly focusing on early detection, self-examination and available medical resources. She has conducted interviews with key members through the Breast Health Foundation, including world-renowned breast surgeon Professor Carol Ann Benn, and shared these insights widely through social media to reach diverse audiences.

Eh!Woza, a non-profit science communication and youth advocacy organisation, has provided Singh with a platform to educate students from schools in Khayelitsha about breast cancer. She has broken down complex medical knowledge into accessible information through interactive workshops, empowering young people to take charge of their health and spread awareness in their communities.

While studying at UKZN, Singh founded the Women for Change organisation, an initiative dedicated to supporting and empowering women across South African campuses. The organisation, which grew to over 350 participants, provided women with safe spaces, conducted silent protests and raised funds for self-protection tools like assault whistles and pepper spray. Singh and her team also provided emotional and practical support to students, ensuring their safety during commutes and late-night studies.

“We as young females are constantly told of the real dangers we face, and many have had first-hand experience. The organisation began as a WhatsApp-based community group chat aimed at providing a safe space for individuals to speak about their concerns and ask for help, creating a buddy system and offering support on commutes,” she said.

She fostered a strong sense of community and solidarity among female students through the initiative, encouraging them to stand together against gender-based violence and discrimination.

Education is at the heart of Singh’s outreach. Over the past nine years, she has tutored students from junior primary to university level, recognising that knowledge is a powerful tool in breaking the cycle of poverty. Her work with the James House Child and Youth Care Centre in Cape Town has provided educational support to students from underprivileged backgrounds, ensuring that they receive the guidance and mentorship needed to excel academically.

Singh provided essential hampers to four youth care centres across Durban with the support and funding of Inqaba Biotec. Each hamper was tailored to the specific needs of the organisation and included stationery, towels, socks, sanitary products, underwear, snacks, food, toys, clothes and more. “This initiative was especially meaningful to me, as its impact was far-reaching. We aim to expand our reach across the country, ensuring that more young people receive the support they need,” she said.

Singh believes that academic success is not just about intelligence but also about confidence and self-belief. “Having someone support and believe in them is key to assisting this process,” she said. Her commitment to education extends beyond tutoring; she has been invited as a guest speaker to UKZN and UCT to inspire young scientists and motivate students to pursue careers in research and advocacy.

Despite the progress made in cancer research and awareness, significant barriers remain in South Africa. Singh highlighted the stigma and misinformation surrounding breast cancer in many communities, where discussing the disease is often taboo. “Many individuals lack access to accurate information, leading to delays in early detection and treatment,” she said.

To combat this, Singh has dedicated herself to bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding. Singh is working to dispel myths and encourage proactive health practices by utilising social media, public speaking and grassroots outreach programmes. Her collaborations with organisations like Mina Foundation, Padel4Good and Breast Cancer Support (BRCA) South Africa further amplify these efforts, allowing her to reach a wider audience and provide essential resources to those in need.

“I use my social media platforms to spark discussions and provide support to those in need. On Instagram, I create motivational content to inspire others to aim high. My TikTok focuses on raising awareness about breast cancer and sharing insights into a career in science. Meanwhile, my YouTube channel is dedicated to tutoring students in Maths and Science, promoting breast cancer awareness and motivating learners.”

“I also participate in competitions, such as pageants, as a platform to spread these messages, particularly advocating for breast cancer awareness and inspiring the youth. Whenever I have an opportunity, I use it to make a meaningful difference,” she added.

Singh’s vision extends beyond South Africa: She aims to expand her impact globally, advocating for better breast cancer research, improved patient support systems and widespread educational reform with the support of the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust scholarship.

Singh is further expanding her community outreach efforts through the Miss World South Africa platform. Her projects under the Beauty with a Purpose campaign include recruiting volunteer tutors to assist organisations in need of academic support, organising guest presentations at cancer awareness workshops and calling for donations to provide educational support hampers and warm clothing to students from youth care centres in Durban during winter.

Speaking about the UKZN Foundation, Singh said, “The work of the UKZN Foundation is incredible – and crucial. I have witnessed the profound impact it has had on students and the broader community, enabling individuals to achieve their dreams. I am truly grateful to be part of a university that is so dedicated to uplifting and supporting its students.”

Singh also collaborated with Drs Sally Frost and Tanya Reinhardt on her outreach initiative and a breast cancer awareness and career talk at UKZN. “Their kindness and support were invaluable in ensuring the event’s success and maximising its impact.”

She highlighted the importance of aiming as high as possible, even beyond what others believe is achievable. “When we set our sights high, no matter the outcome, we will always surpass the limits we once thought possible for ourselves.”