Best postgraduate oral presentation for Mandela University’s Minyonne Verster #R2bP

Minyonne’s research focuses on the endangered seagrass Zostera capensis (Eelgrass) and its associated macroinvertebrate communities in the Knysna, Swartvlei, and Keurbooms estuaries.

At SAMSS, she presented findings from a project component that examined ecological drivers relevant to conservation and management.

The goal is to protect the vital ecosystem services seagrass provides, including biodiversity support, carbon storage, and estuarine health.

Seagrass habitats are declining rapidly along the coastline, making this research urgent.

Their loss influences not just estuarine ecosystems but people too, as these systems purify water, store carbon, and provide critical nursery areas for marine life, Minyonne says.

Her passion for marine ecology was shaped by her honours experience in the mangroves with Dr Gavin Rishworth and Professor Janine Adams, whose enthusiasm for blue carbon ecosystems sparked her interest in seagrass. She was excited to pursue her MSc in this field.

“Representing the University and the Shallow Water Ecosystem team at SAMSS was a privilege,” Minyonne says. “Being surrounded by inspiring research and leading marine scientists made it an unforgettable experience.”

“The award was a personal reminder that feeling anxious is normal but should not overshadow one’s potential. Professionally, it marked growth in a crucial skill: communicating science effectively to diverse audiences, key to both research and conservation impact," Minyonne says.

SAMSS renewed her motivation to complete her MSc and ensure her findings reach both management teams and scientific journals.

Minyonne’s conservation content creation began through turtle rehabilitation work, where she learned to turn complex science into engaging, accessible stories, a skill that now enriches her academic communication.

“It also taught me that caring deeply is a strength, and to balance research with activities that bring joy and purpose,” she says.

“Marine science offers many paths. Try new things, even if they just help you figure out your next step. Most importantly, follow your passion. It’s what will carry you through challenges and give your work purpose,” Minyonne says.

Dr Gavin Rishworth's students that he supervises or cosupervises at the conference, from left, Aphiwe Sandi (MSc student, Zoology), Claudia Schnelle (PhD student, UJ), Margeaux Liberty (MSc student, Botany), Dr Rishworth, Minyonne Verster (MSc student, Zoology), Saudiqa Benjamin (MSc graduate, Zoology) and Thembani Mkhize (PhD student, Oceanography).   

Her study leader Dr Gavin Rishworth said: “We are incredibly proud of Minyonne – this is a strong achievement at the premier regional marine conference in South Africa, attended by some 500 delegates.

Minyonne’s creative presentation demonstrated her skills as a storyteller but also the rigour of her science. She showed how her work serves society as an informative management and conservation contribution.

This recognition affirms her path as an emerging leader in science. We are very pleased that she will remain a part of the University’s team next year when she begins her PhD studies.”