For Precious Ntuli, Chairperson of the CSIR Youth Forum and a senior cybersecurity specialist in the CSIR Defence and Security cluster, Women's Day represents far more than a celebration. It reminds her of the courage, resilience and determination of the women who paved the way for future generations, while also highlighting the work that remains to achieve true equality. This Women's Month and beyond, we celebrate Precious for inspiring the next generation of women through leadership, resilience and purpose.
Precious believes that Women's Month is a time to reflect on the responsibility that comes with leadership. She says that leadership is not defined by a title but by the opportunities created for women to grow and succeed. "This time reinforces my responsibility to encourage greater participation of women in science, engineering and technology. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields, yet women remain underrepresented. Through research, public engagement, mentorship and awareness initiatives, I hope to contribute to creating a future where young women see themselves as innovators, researchers and leaders capable of solving some of society's most complex challenges," she says.
As a mother, researcher and leader at the CSIR Youth Forum, Precious strives to lead by example and inspire women to pursue ambitious careers while making meaningful contributions to their families, communities and workplaces.
Inspired by women who lead, uplift and empower others
Precious shares that her greatest source of inspiration is her mother, who has taught her resilience, humility, discipline and perseverance through her actions. "Watching my mother navigate life's challenges while prioritising our family showed me what true strength looks like. These lessons have guided me in my career, leadership and motherhood. Professionally, I have also been fortunate to learn from women who demonstrate excellence in research, leadership and public service. I have used them as examples to reinforce the importance of lifting others as we grow," Precious explains.
Turning Women's Day conversations into meaningful action and opportunities
Precious believes that Women's Day should be a catalyst for meaningful action. "Celebrating Women's Day achievements is important, but the occasion must also be used to invest in mentorship, leadership development, skills training and initiatives that remove barriers to opportunities," she urges.
Precious also encourages organisations and society to share a common vision and take collective responsibility for creating opportunities for young women. "Organisations and society can further support young women in science, engineering and technology (SET) and research by intentionally creating pathways for them to gain meaningful experience, contribute to high-impact projects and develop leadership skills early in their careers. Mentorship, sponsorship, research opportunities, leadership development and exposure to decision-making platforms are essential. Representation matters too, because when young women see female scientists, engineers, researchers and executives succeeding, they begin to recognise that those career paths are possible for them," she asserts.
According to Precious, the true measure of Women's Month is whether the conversations it inspires translate into meaningful action throughout the year.
Never underestimate the value of your voice
When asked to share a message with women and girls, Precious encouraged them to embrace their potential, lead with integrity and inspire positive change. "You should never underestimate the value of your voice or the impact you can have on the world around you. Your background does not define your future and your dreams are valid regardless of the obstacles you may encounter," she says.
Precious adds that women should be willing to learn continuously, embrace challenges and support other women along the way. "Success becomes more meaningful when it creates opportunities for others. Most importantly, do not wait until you feel completely ready before stepping into leadership. Growth happens through experience and confidence is built by taking the first step. The next generation is watching and your courage today could become someone else's inspiration tomorrow," she says.
Precious exemplifies balance and resilience
Precious was nominated as a phenomenal CSIR woman by Masilo Kgatle who is the Events Manager at the CSIR, for successfully representing her field through numerous radio and television interviews, conference presentations and stakeholder engagements, effectively translating complex cybersecurity concepts into practical knowledge for diverse audiences. "Beyond her technical expertise, Precious has made significant contributions to community outreach and science engagement programmes, where she has been instrumental in raising awareness and promoting digital literacy and cybersecurity among learners and schools. Her ability to communicate evidence-based insights, coupled with her commitment to mentorship and youth development, makes her an exceptional leader and role model," he said.
In addition to her professional achievements, Masilo believes that Precious exemplifies balance and resilience. "As a mother of two, an active participant in athletics and a researcher with a steadily growing academic and professional profile, she demonstrates the discipline, perseverance and leadership qualities necessary to inspire others and drive meaningful impact. Given her proven track record of leadership, scientific excellence, public engagement and community service, I am confident that she will make a substantial contribution in her role as Chairperson and continue to advance the objectives of the Youth Forum," says Masilo with confidence.
Published 20 August 2026