Dr Latolla, 32, also won the FameLab International competition in 2022, was recognised by the Federation of Commonwealth Chemical Sciences Societies, and was selected as one of 25 emerging higher education leaders globally for the UNILEAD Programme in Germany.
From his national Diploma in Analytical Chemistry to his PhD in Chemistry, Dr Latolla has spent his educational journey at Mandela University.
Nehemiah pioneers the integration of traditional and modern medicine. Raised in the Eastern Cape by missionary parents, his early exposure to community service, education, and indigenous knowledge deeply influenced his path.
Inspired by his grandmother’s garden, Nehemiah developed a passion for the healing power of plants, leading to his research on the anticancer and antidiabetic properties of South African medicinal flora.
Currently exploring advanced 3D cell culture models, he aims to create affordable, culturally relevant treatments to combat breast cancer.
Nehemiah credits his late father, Solomon Latolla, a missionary whose life of service and humility shaped his values, and Dr Buyiswa Hlangothi, his mentor who nurtured his academic journey and belief in the value of indigenous knowledge.
Through mentorship, research, and outreach, Nehemiah continues to bridge traditional wisdom with cutting-edge science, inspiring a new generation of African scientists and reaffirming the importance of culturally conscious healthcare innovation.
More recipients
Altogether five alumni and a current student are also among the list, honoured for their contributions. They are:
Thoriso Lubisi (Justice) is a candidate attorney at Van Breda & Herbst Attorneys Inc., driven by ubuntu and a commitment to social justice. He manages insurance litigation, drafts legal documents, consults clients, and appears in court. A Mandela University LLB graduate with distinction, he is currently pursuing an LLM in labour law at the University of Johannesburg. Thoriso, 25, has represented South Africa at the African Human Rights Moot Court in Egypt, interned at top firms, and taken part in international leadership programmes, earning accolades for both academic and leadership excellence.
Kesa Molotsane (Sports) from Thaba ’Nchu, is a former international runner and current chairperson of the Athletes Commission at Athletics South Africa, where she champions athletes’ rights and development nationwide. She manages an elite athletics club, handling administration, marketing, and mentorship. A law graduate, she is furthering her studies in International Sport Management at Mandela University. Kesa, 32, made history as South Africa’s youngest team manager at the 2021 World University Games and led the national team to medal success at the 2024 World University Cross Country Championships.
Nomvuyo Nomadolo (Science & Technology) is a leading researcher at the CSIR, dedicated to developing biodegradable materials to tackle South Africa’s plastic crisis. She holds an MSc in Chemistry from Mandela University and is now a PhD candidate at the University of Johannesburg. Nomvuyo, 34, co-led the creation of Africa’s first ISO-accredited biodegradation testing standard and was part of a UNEP Champions of the Earth Award-winning team. She has presented globally, published in peer-reviewed journals, and secured major research grants. Committed to mentorship and expanding STEM access in underserved communities like Moruleng, Nomvuyo aims to bridge scientific research with real-world environmental and social impact.
Ngcebo Lwazi Nsele (Politics & Governance) is a legal adviser for KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, focusing on legislative reform, litigation oversight, and policy aligned with Vision 2030. Holding an LLB and a Postgraduate Diploma in Labour Law from Mandela University, a key achievement in his career was resolving the decade-long Ntsikeni Community Trust dispute. He empowers communities by helping them establish trusts and reclaim land and purpose. Named one of 2024’s 100 Emerging Leaders in the Public Service, Nsele, 29, is also active in grassroots development through ward committees and youth education efforts.
Mutakusi Ragimana (Science & Technology) is a geospatial science expert known for advancing technological innovation and STEM outreach. A spatial data and remote sensing specialist at Zutari, he applies GIS, machine learning, and remote sensing to support projects in disaster management, agriculture, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. His MSc research at Mandela University broke new ground in Africa by using radar and optical data for land cover monitoring. Recognised by the South African National Space Agency and Esri South Africa, he also mentors rural youth through the Bono Foundation. Academically decorated, Mutakusi, 27, bridges cutting-edge tech with real-world impact across the continent.
Masimbonge Vuma (Agriculture) from Cala in the Eastern Cape, is an agricultural entrepreneur blending practical farming with leadership and planning. Inspired by his uncle’s farm, he graduated with both a Diploma in Mechanical Engineering and an Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Management from Mandela University. He co-founded a farming co-op and launched Sahaba Holdings in 2022. Passionate about youth and rural development, he promotes small-scale farming and inclusive growth. As a training associate at Meat Naturally, Masimbonge (28) supports communal farmers. With NYDA funding, he expanded his operations using sustainable and innovative farming methods.