Recognition for Science Diplomacy

Dr Boineelo Pearl Lefadola, a Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship (FAR-LeaF) programme Fellow, has received recognition after winning the 60-Second Policy Brief Pitch during the Foundations of Science Diplomacy for Early and Mid-Career Researchers training programme organised by the International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation (ISTIC) under the auspices of UNESCO, in collaboration with the Future Earth Africa Hub and its Leadership Centre, and the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa.

Dr Pearl Lefadola receiving her 60-Second Policy Brief Pitch award.

The award recognises Dr Lefadola's ability to communicate scientific research in a concise, engaging, and policy-relevant manner. The pitch competition challenged participants to translate complex research into clear messages that can inform policy and decision-making.

In recognition of her achievement, ISTIC awarded Dr Lefadola a letter of recognition and invited her to participate in a selected ISTIC training programme or event during the 2027/2028 programme cycle.

Reflecting on the achievement, Dr Lefadola said: "This recognition reinforces the importance of communicating research in ways that inform policy and create meaningful societal impact. I am grateful to ISTIC, UNESCO, and the FAR-LeaF programme for supporting researchers to become effective science leaders."

The recognition highlights the impact of the FAR-LeaF programme in developing African research leaders who can effectively bridge science, policy, and society. Dr Lefadola's achievement demonstrates the value of science diplomacy and effective science communication in addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development.

The FAR-LeaF community congratulates Dr Lefadola on this outstanding achievement and wishes her continued success in her research and leadership journey.