Professor Liesl ZühlkeUniversity of Cape Town (UCT) Professor Liesl Zühlke has been named the 2026 L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Award laureate for Africa and the Arab States, in recognition of her pioneering work in cardiac and cardiovascular science, with a particular focus on children and underserved populations.
The award honours her sustained contributions to advancing scientific understanding of rheumatic and congenital heart disease, and their impact on improving health outcomes for vulnerable groups, particularly women and children in low- and middle-income countries.
It also highlights the persistent global burden of cardiovascular disease in regions where access to specialised cardiac care remains limited, and underscores the importance of research-driven solutions tailored to resource-constrained health systems.
Speaking after the announcement, Prof. Zühlke said she was deeply honoured by the recognition, noting that it reflects decades of collaborative work across UCT and international research networks.
“I am deeply honoured and extremely humbled by this prestigious award. It represents decades of work, focused on children with rheumatic and congenital heart disease, with amazing team members from UCT, as well as with African and global colleagues,” she said.
She added that the recognition also reinforces the importance of women in science and the need to sustain attention on neglected childhood diseases.
“It also highlights the role of women in science. I have been deeply inspired by authentic, committed and courageous women scientists in my community, at UCT and beyond. I hope this award brings attention to the plight of childhood-onset heart disease, which remains neglected in the world,” she added.
The L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards, established in 1998, recognise five outstanding women scientists each year across global regions, celebrating both scientific excellence and contributions to gender equity in research.
According to UCT, Prof. Zühlke’s work has been instrumental in advancing understanding of rheumatic heart disease, a largely preventable condition that continues to affect millions globally despite significant reductions in high-income countries. Her research has contributed to improved screening approaches, prevention strategies, and policy engagement in cardiovascular health for children and adolescents.
Her recognition also reflects the growing global visibility of African-led health research, particularly in fields that have historically received limited investment despite their significant disease burden.
Beyond her research contributions, Prof. Zühlke has played a key role in building research capacity, mentoring emerging scientists, and strengthening collaborative cardiovascular research networks across Africa. Her work spans clinical medicine, public health, and implementation science, with an emphasis on translating evidence into practical health interventions.
For the University of Cape Town, the recognition reinforces its position as a leading centre for medical research in Africa and highlights the growing contribution of African scientists to global health innovation and evidence generation.
Photo courtesy: UCT
Article by Jed Mwangi
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