There are few things Samisha Beepath loves as much as sewing, crafting and making tiny sculptures with clay, but nature is certainly one of them. She grew up in Pietermaritzburg and remained in her hometown for her university days, during which she completed her Honours in Biological Science.

Samisha will now be staying far from home in the North West province to intern as a conservation scientist at North-West University. She will be providing technical assistance on research projects and maintaining herbarium specimens.

We asked her a few questions to gain insight into her life’s journey so far, what makes her tick and where she sees herself headed over the next few years:

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about many things, but conservation of nature is close to my heart. Nature always has something to fascinate and amaze me, and that is why I feel so strongly about it.

What inspired your choice of study?

My parents were my inspiration to study biological science. They spend most of their spare time outside working in the garden. This got me interested in nature, which then sparked my interest in biology. 

What excites you about your internship?

Everything excites me about this internship. There is much to learn and a never-ending opportunity for exciting experiences.

What are your expectations of this internship?

I expect to learn a great amount about pursuing a career in science. I am also hoping to broaden my knowledge not only in biology but other sections of science as well. Another expectation is to make some new friends and connections in the scientific community along the way.    

What contribution do you hope to make towards a future in which people and nature thrive?

I am hoping to help find ways to balance the interactions of humans and nature and to spread awareness of the necessity thereof for the survival of all species, including our own.

Who inspires you most and why?

My parents are my inspiration. They have worked hard to give me opportunities they never had. They showed me that nature can provide if you just care of it. They started a plant nursery from scratch and the profits were used to educate me and help me grow as an individual.