The SIR grants programme is designed to support original research initiated by a researcher at a recognised research institution in various areas of health.
Mavhandu-Mudzusi, popularly known as Prof Azwi, currently serves as the Head of the Office of Graduate Studies and Research in the College of Human Sciences. She admits to being absolutely thrilled with this achievement.
Hailing from the rural village of Tshiozwi, Ha Sinthumule, in Limpopo Province, Mavhandu-Mudzusi believes she emerged as the winner because of the potential impact her proposed project can have on the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and plus (LGBTIQ+) individuals in rural communities. Other reasons, in her view, may be linked to her staunch commitment to LGBTIQ+ advocacy (which is evident in her research output), and her track record in utilising and managing previous grants.
In Tshivenda, Mavhandu-Mudzusi’s motto in life – which she adopted from her grandmother, Denga Mushayasia Mpeiwa – is “a huna vhiḓa ḽa u shuma”, which translates as her never having seen the grave of someone who died from hard work. Asked what motivates her, she adds: “Maṅa a mutukana a si vhumatshelo hawe” – a saying that means “a boy’s cracked heels do not determine his future”. Thus, regardless of how deprived people’s backgrounds may be, she believes they can reach the greatest heights in life, with a bit of support and a lot of determination. Mavhandu-Mudzusi, who lost her father when she was seven, admits that “loss exposed me to first-degree poverty; I survived through the support of many relatives”.
Before she retires, Mavhandu-Mudzusi’s dream is to see the cohort of young academics whom she is supporting through the Post-Doctoral Incubation Programme becoming established researchers who engage in research that has a positive impact on society.