Malefeu Lethuba is a PhD candidate in the Archaeology Department at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Her research focuses on stable isotope analysis of contemporary human and faunal remains.
Lethuba completed both her undergraduate and postgraduate studies at UCT. She developed a passion for human evolution during five years of tutoring Introduction to Human Evolution, a course convened by HERI Co-director Professor Rebecca Ackermann.
Lethuba now channels that passion into her PhD research, which aims to provide insights into early human behaviours, species interactions, and adaptations by reconstructing past environments.
The findings could also have implications for better understanding contemporary issues like climate change and food security, while also advancing educational curricula and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations in scientific research.
1. What excites you most about the palaeosciences?
Palaeosciences offer an exhilarating journey into the mysteries of the Earth's ancient past. It is interesting how researchers in fields like palaeontology and palaeoclimatology collaborate to piece together ancient ecosystems, analyse past climates, and trace the evolution of life on our planet.
Each fossil find has the power to reshape our understanding of history, evolution, and the natural environment. My excitement stems from the constant potential to unearth novel and unforeseen discoveries hidden within the depths of time.
2. Describe your research in three words.
Fauna, evolution, palaeoproteomics.
3. Who is your biggest inspiration?
I am inspired by Prof Rebecca Ackermann. There are not a lot of people who are able to walk the talk. It is easy to sit behind a computer screen and write about decolonisation and transformation. It is an entirely different thing to actually implement and make change, regardless of the magnitude of the outcome. Prof Ackermann is one of those people who are brave enough to practise what they preach.
I am also inspired by my sisters, Amogelang, Nnete, and Mpho Lethuba. Amogelang is the most confident person I have ever met. She is the embodiment of confidence, the reason behind the saying “sometimes it is not the lack of ability, but the lack of confidence”. Whenever I feel incapable, I channel her energy and keep my head up amidst the turbulence. Nnete is the most hardworking individual I know. She is so hardworking that she achieved what most people in her field achieve in 10 years in just three years. However, she is mostly bored now because she does not know what to do next. Mpho is a big dreamer, she dreams beyond the stars and truly believes that nothing is impossible or unattainable.
4. What has been your biggest academic challenge?
This year has been very challenging, due to finances and the uncertainty of things. Even though I am registered for my PhD, many things have been changing: the topic, project, supervisors, etc. However, I am hopeful that it will all work out in the end.
5. What is the soundtrack to your studies?
Beautiful Escape by Tom Misch is a song that captures the feeling of wanting to escape from the pressures and stresses of everyday life. The lyrics express a desire to break free from routine and experience something more meaningful and fulfilling.
The song's soothing melody and relaxed vibe contribute to its overall message of seeking solace and tranquillity during life's challenges. It's about finding beauty in simplicity and taking a moment to appreciate the small joys in life.