Send us a textMy guest is Zakithi Mkhize from South Africa. In this episode, we find out that she had a dream of being a medical doctor that did not work out as planned. However, life led her to still pursue an academic career in medicine. Currently, she is a PhD Candidate in Medicine (Virology) at the HIV Pathogenesis Program at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa. Her research focuses on a particular gene called the transactivator of transcription (Tat), which enhances HIV replication and its interaction with host transcription factor positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFB). She studies how genetic variation in Tat can affect its interaction with P-TEFB, efficient transcription, and latency. Latency is a significant barrier to HIV cure. Thus, her research will inform HIV cure studies. Zakithi also has a YouTube channel called ‘BlackGirlScientist’. The channel is geared toward motivating, encouraging & inspiring young black people, especially black women, to get into science. She shares her journey through science as well as knowledge & expertise. She aims to break stereotypes and make science cool. Lastly, we also talk about the #CelebratingYouthinSTEM #BlackInSTEMSA campaign that we are running in collaboration with The Root of the Science Podcasts. The importance of this campaign during South Africa's Youth Month. Stay tuned.Twitter: @Zakkie_MInstagram: @Zakkie_M & @blackgirl.scientistLinkedIn: Zakithi MkhizeBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow the show on:Twitter: @RootofscipodInstagram: @Rootofscipod YouTube: The Root Of The Science PodcastFacebook: The Root of The Science Podcast LinkedIn: The Root Of The Science PodcastWebsite

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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