Tshepo Aphane

Biochemist & Policy Advocate | Protecting African Indigenous Knowledge through Innovation | Chairperson SAAB Student Council | SA Co-Ordinator SASUF+ SN

Pretoria Metropolitan Area

About

Innovation dies in the gap between the lab and the law. I am building my career to close that gap. As an MSc Biochemist and student leader, I focus on the "missing middle", the policy frameworks needed to protect African Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) from biopiracy. I believe the next generation of scientists must be "hybrids": comfortable with both a pipette and a policy brief. Current Impact: • Chairperson, SAAB Student Council: Leading national initiatives for young botanists. • Admin, SASUF Student Network: Driving Global North-South science diplomacy. • Research Management: Optimizing the administrative pipelines behind scientific output at SMU. My Mission: To transition from a consumer of knowledge to a protector of it.

Experience

  • Chairperson at South African Association of Botanists Student Council
    Jan 2026 - Present · 6 mos

  • South Africa - Sweden University Forum (SASUF) (Hybrid)
    • National Coordinator
      Oct 2025 - Present · 9 mos

    • Student Network Adminstrator
      Jul 2025 - Present · 1 yr

    • Student Representive for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
      Nov 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 8 mos

      As a Student Representative for SASUF at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, I serve as a liaison between students and the organization, promoting collaborative initiatives and fostering academic exchanges between South Africa and Sweden. I support communication efforts, advocate for student interests, and contribute to the success of forum-related activities, enhancing the university’s global partnerships.

  • Research Grant Management Intern at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
    May 2025 - Present · 1 yr 2 mos

  • Administrative Clerk at Lancet Laboratories
    Apr 2025 - May 2025 · 2 mos

    an Admin Clerk at Lancet Laboratories, I supported the smooth operation of laboratory services by managing patient data, processing laboratory requests, and ensuring accurate record-keeping. My role involved liaising with healthcare professionals, maintaining confidentiality, and contributing to the efficiency of diagnostic processes. I’ve gained valuable experience in administrative systems within a clinical setting, strengthening my attention to detail, time management, and communication skills.

  • Student Ambassador at Feenix.org
    Mar 2023 - Mar 2024 · 1 yr 1 mo

    As a Feenix Student Ambassador at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, I actively engaged with students to provide information on funding opportunities and scholarship applications. I helped promote Feenix.org's initiatives and fostered a strong connection between the organization and the student community. This role allowed me to advocate for accessible education while honing my communication, leadership, and community-building skills.