Ms Ntokozo Happy Msiza, a Lecturer in the Department of Animal and Pasture Sciences at the University of Fort Hare (UFH), was recently named among Sunday World’s 2025 Unsung Heroes in Academia and Education.
The recognition honours South Africans making impactful contributions in their respective spaces. In Msiza’s case, the recognition affirms her influence as a scholar, innovator, and entrepreneur, reshaping agriculture and inspiring women in science.
A proud Fort Hare alumna, Msiza completed her BSc (Honours) in Agriculture in Animal and Pasture Science at UFH in 2018. Thereafter, she obtained her MSc in Animal Science at North-West University in 2020. Today, she lectures in the same department while pursuing her PhD in Animal Science through North-West University.
Entrepreneurship Rooted in Agriculture
Msiza’s impact goes far beyond academia. She founded PhahlaLwendlu Farming, a registered agricultural consultation company.
“PhahlaLwendlu, which is in its early growth phase, was established to provide expert agricultural consultation, research, and community engagement services. It aims to improve productivity, sustainability, and knowledge transfer within the sector,” she explained.
In addition, she recognized a unique niche in the wine industry and founded Happy Wines. The lifestyle brand blends agricultural value addition with wine education.
“I recognized a gap in the market. There is a lack of personalized and educational wine experiences for wine enthusiasts, collectors, and businesses. This inspired the creation of Happy Wines, which promotes wine education, responsible consumption, and curates wine experiences that add value to consumers and the broader agricultural sector.”
A Role Model in STEM
Msiza’s current research focuses on developing advanced pasture management strategies to help emerging farmers tackle feed shortages. She has authored eight scientific papers and presented at ten academic conferences. In 2023, she won Best Oral Presentation in the PhD category at the prestigious 8th All Africa Conference on Animal Agriculture in Botswana.
Beyond research and entrepreneurship, Msiza champions representation and gender equity in science. Currently, she serves as Vice Chairperson of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) South Africa National Chapter. She has participated in international programmes such as an agricultural summer school in Brazil.
“What drives my success in STEM is the need to see representation and have role models who look like me and come from a similar background,” she said. “Growing up, I didn’t have a woman in STEM to look up to. This journey made me realize the importance of being a role model for others.”
Bridging Science and Society
Raised by grandparents with deep farming roots, Msiza’s love for agriculture and her self-motivated exploration of science shaped her trajectory.
“As a young girl with big dreams, I explored science by reading newspapers, watching TV programs, attending university open days, and asking my family for guidance. My maternal grandparents’ farming experience helped shape my decision to pursue agriculture while in high school.”
Reflecting on the Sunday World honour, she said, “Being recognized is a powerful affirmation that dedication, collaboration, and a positive attitude can turn years of hard work into meaningful impact. As an emerging researcher, this recognition empowers me. It inspires other young people to pursue their ambitions, especially young women, whose contributions are urgently needed to help address our country’s academic, educational, and socio-economic challenges.”