Thobeka Mthembu’s journey from a curious intern to a confident biotech entrepreneur showcases how UVU Bio equips young minds with skills, networks, and knowledge to kickstart their biotech careers and explore innovative business ideas.
UVU Bio’s inclusive and transformative approach upskills young women like Thobeka by creating an environment where scientific innovations thrive. Growing up in Newcastle, a small town in KwaZulu Natal where career growth opportunities are limited, she dreamed of a brighter future. Fuelled by a strong desire to become a change maker for her community, Thobeka excelled in school, becoming the first in her family to achieve a matric bachelor’s pass.
Driven by a love for science but unsure of a specific field, Thobeka studied Biotechnology at Cape Peninsula University of Technology, a choice that later proved to be the perfect fit.
Bridging the Skills and Experience Gap
Through skills development, mentorship, and business incubation, UVU Bio empowered Thobeka to break barriers and create biotech solutions that matter.
When an internship opportunity to gain practical experience at UVU Bio came along, she embraced it wholeheartedly. “My internship at UVU Bio helped me to discover my true potential. I gained valuable practical experience, developed a strong foundation in bioprocessing and my entrepreneurial spirit was ignited,” she reflects.
UVU Bio’s internship programme provides young professionals with real-world experience and has launched hundreds of successful biotech careers. By investing in the next generation of scientists and innovators, UVU Bio is creating a brighter future for all.
During her internship, UVU Bio placed Thobeka at Medical Diagnostech where she secured a permanent job. During this career growth opportunity, she found herself managing major projects, proving that when presented with an opportunity and with the right guidance, young professionals can excel. With her newly gained experience and UVU Bio’s business development support, she was inspired to solve a problem close to her heart.
Cultivating the Next Generation of Innovators
Beyond internships, skills development programmes and job placement, UVU Bio also cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset, empowering young scientists to create innovative solutions for Africa’s challenges.
Watching her sister struggle with allergic reactions to standard detergents, inspired Thobeka to develop a hypoallergenic, eco-friendly detergent brand under her business, Mbuso Chemicals. “UVU Bio has been instrumental in my personal and entrepreneurial journey,” Thobeka explains. “The business incubation programme provided me with business management knowledge, from identifying market needs to developing sustainable solutions.”
Mbuso Chemicals reflects Thobeka’s commitment to using biotech to create a positive social impact. “Beyond profits,” she emphasizes, “my goal is to create jobs and opportunities for young people from the small town I grew up in, and to challenge societal misconceptions about creating and sustaining a lucrative business as an African female entrepreneur”.
By providing a platform for learning, innovation, and leadership, UVU Bio is creating long-term impact, ensuring that young Africans don’t just survive but thrive.
Empowering Dreams and Transforming Futures
UVU Bio’s transformative impact is evident in stories like Thobeka Mthembu—proof that access to the right opportunities can turn potential into lasting success. By providing hands-on training, industry exposure, and entrepreneurial support, UVU Bio is developing skilled professionals and fostering a new generation of African innovators.
Her story is a testament to the power of opportunity, perseverance, and the right support system. UVU Bio assisted Thobeka transform her idea from a concept into a tangible, and impact inspired product.
