Dr Thomas Hlamalani Mongwe, 35, is a chemistry lecturer at the University of Mpumalanga whose career bridges scientific research, higher education and African indigenous knowledge. Holding a PhD in Chemical Sciences from the University of the Witwatersrand, Mongwe teaches undergraduate chemistry, supervises postgraduate research and helps design the university's chemistry curriculum. Alongside his academic career, Mongwe is a practising traditional healer and serves as general secretary of the Traditional Healers Organisation in Mpumalanga. He is passionate about promoting African cultural knowledge while demonstrating that indigenous traditions and scientific scholarship can coexist. Recognised as the University of Mpumalanga's Best Emerging Teacher in 2025, Mongwe is driven by a belief that education and culture together can transform lives.