Award: Emerging Nurse Researcher (A3)

Recipient: Dr Lwandile Tokwe
An interview with the Emerging Nurse Researcher award recipient, Dr Lwandile Tokwe

1. What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally?
(We are curious about how it resonates with your journey and how you hope it might encourage others.)

As a professional nurse conducting research in the field of HIV and co-morbidities, receiving this Emerging Nurse Researcher award is both humbling and deeply meaningful.

I thank my nominator(s) and the Department of Nursing Science for this special recognition. Personally, it acknowledges the hard work and sacrifices that have shaped my academic and research journey over the years. It further motivates me to keep striving for excellence and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of nursing science, research, and patient care. Professionally, it represents recognition from peers and leaders in nursing, both in clinical and academic settings, reinforcing my commitment to sharing patient experiences that inform the development of evidence that improves practice and patient outcomes. It also inspires me to mentor and support other emerging nurse researchers in pursuing impactful and ethical research.

2. Looking back, is there a moment or contribution in your nursing career that you feel especially proud of?
(It could be a breakthrough, a turning point, or something that made a lasting difference.)

Earning my Ph.D. in Nursing Science at Stellenbosch University after years of dedication is one of the moments I’m most proud of in my career. It represents not only the highest academic qualification in the field, but also perseverance, growth, and a deep commitment to advancing nursing knowledge. For me, it marked a turning point, opening the door to contribute more meaningfully to teaching, research, and mentorship in academia. Now that I have this qualification, I am making it my business to use it to make a difference in academia, and in the community as well.

3. Who has been an important mentor in your nursing career?
(We would love to hear about someone who helped shape your path.)

My nursing career has been shaped by a group of exceptional nursing academics who have mentored and supported me throughout my journey. I am hoping that they will continue to share their wisdom. Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my potential have been pivotal to my growth. I am deeply grateful to Professors Joanne R. Naidoo, Portia Jordan, Talitha Crowley, and Regis R. Marie Modeste, named here, in no particular order, for their continued mentorship and for inspiring me to pay it forward by supporting others in the same way. 

4. What motivates you in your nursing career?
(Whether it is the people, the challenges, or the purpose, what keeps you going?)

My motivation comes from doing what I love, be it teaching students or conducting meaningful research. It keeps me going. Knowing that I contribute to something bigger than myself and help shape a student’s education drives me every day. It is rewarding to know that the knowledge and guidance I share will ultimately make a difference.

5. How do you keep your practice fresh and informed in a field that is always evolving?
(Feel free to share how you engage with new knowledge, research, or teaching.)

I make it my business to participate in journal reviews in my areas of interest to stay up-to-date with new developments in my field. I also attend webinars and short courses that enhance my practice, particularly in teaching health sciences, research supervision, and research ethics.

6. What is next for you? Are there any goals or hopes you are working toward in your professional journey?
(We are interested in what growth or impact you are aiming for, whether big or small.)

This is a good question. As an early-career academic, there is still much to accomplish. My current goal is to achieve a National Research Foundation (NRF) rating, which will position me for progression from a P rating to, eventually, an A rating as I advance in my career.  As a nurse academic, this is important for making an impact in the field of nursing. Another key goal is to progress through the academic ranks, moving from Senior Lecturer (current level) to higher positions, ultimately reaching full professor level as a professional nurse.