I screamed when I heard Ulwazi BlueBridge announced as the Outreach & Education Winner at the 2025 Blue Tech Pitch Competition, hosted virtually by Black in Marine Science (BIMS). This recognition means more than words can capture. My research company, Ulwazi, was founded to make science accessible, actionable, and relatable, moving research out of the academic…
Author: Dr Kolisa Yola Sinyanya
I have a PhD in Ocean Biogeochemistry from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. I am also the Founder and Director at Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research. One of my life's passions are fashion and this led me to create and turn M'Afrika By Kolisa African Streetwear into a fashion business. My passions include science communication and making science accessible and look cool because it is.
Dr Kolisa Sinyanya Making Waves at TIPS Forum 2025
Last week, I boarded a flight with a suitcase full of slides, anticipation, and a dream to spark new conversations. I was headed to the TIPS Annual Forum 2025, where I’d been invited to present my paper: “Building Skills for Blue Industrialisation: Addressing Education and Training Gaps in Africa’s Coastal Economies.” I knew the topic…
Dr Kolisa Sinyanya Beyond the PhD: Why I Chose Entrepreneurship (and Why I Don’t Regret It)
When I completed my PhD, I did something unexpected. I chose to become an entrepreneur. And the backlash? LOUD!!! From seasoned professors to freshly minted PhDs, there was confusion, disbelief, even disdain. “Why would you leave research?” they asked.But here’s the thing: I wasn’t leaving anything. I was building something. For me, the PhD wasn’t…
Where African Spirituality and Science Blend: A Story of Wholeness, Healing, and Heritage
What happens when the lab meets the spirit world? When does ocean science flow into ancestral callings? For me, Kolisa Yola Sinyanya, it’s not a contradiction. It’s my real life! It is my calling. In a powerful feature by Tanatswa Taruvinga in The Southern African Times, my journey reminds us that African spirituality and science…
Dr Kolisa Sinyanya and Ulwazi’s Role in the Gulf Youth Ambassador Program: Curriculum Empowering Youth Through Co-Design
In a groundbreaking initiative, my company, Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research, is leading a collaborative effort to co-design the Gulf Youth Ambassador Programme curriculum. This partnership exemplifies a commitment to inclusive education and youth empowerment, aligning with Ulwazi’s mission to transform lives through quality and inclusive education. A Visionary Leader in STEM Education When…
Dr Kolisa Sinyanya in the running for the Nature John Maddox Prize
I’m honoured, and still a bit breathless, to share that I’ve been accepted into the first round of judging for the John Maddox Prize, awarded by Nature and Sense About Science. This award recognises individuals who stand up for science, even when it’s complex or controversial, and for me, this acknowledgement couldn’t feel more aligned….
Dr Kolisa Yola Sinyanya is Officially in the Running for the Nature Inspiring Women in Science: Science Outreach Award 🌍✨
It’s official, I’m in the running for the Nature Inspiring Women in Science: Science Outreach Award! Just writing that feels surreal!!! It’s Nature! Even at this stage, being recognised by Nature, one of the most prestigious scientific platforms globally, is a deeply affirming moment for me and everything I’ve poured into science communication, education, and outreach. This…
Dr Sinyanya Bridging the Gap Between Science and Industry at the Southern Africa Oil & Gas Conference
I had the privilege of attending a major Oil and Gas Conference, where I joined industry leaders, government ministers, scientists, and policymakers to explore the evolving energy landscape in Africa. Representing Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research, I immersed myself in high-level conversations around offshore exploration, sustainability, and the intersection of science, policy, and public…
I’m Attending the 4th Annual Southern Africa Oil & Gas Conference 2025!
I’m thrilled to share that I have won tickets to the 4th Annual Southern Africa Oil & Gas Conference (SAOGC2025)! The event will take place on March 19-20, 2025, at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town. This is an incredible opportunity, and I can’t wait to be part of the conversations shaping the…
A Milestone in Science-Policy Engagement: Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research at the 2025 Mining Indaba
The Mining Indaba is one of Africa’s most significant gatherings for leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in the mining sector. It serves as a platform where discussions shape the future of responsible mining, investment opportunities, and environmental sustainability. This year, I had the incredible honour of representing Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research at the 2025…
Why Is No One Talking About Ocean Mining at the Mining Indaba?
Attending the Mining Indaba was an eye-opening experience, showcasing the latest innovations and investment trends in Africa’s mining sector. However, one crucial topic was missing, ocean mining, a growing industry with significant environmental and economic implications. Why are we not discussing its sustainability? Read my full take here: 🔗 Why Is No One Talking About…
Dr Kolisa Yola Sinyanya: All American Entertainment (AAE) Speaker
I am thrilled to announce my role as a speaker with All American Entertainment (AAE), where I bring my passion for ocean advocacy, science communication, DEI and transformation, and environmental stewardship to the stage. As a PhD holder in Ocean Biogeochemistry and an experienced science communicator, my journey has been fuelled by a desire to…
Dr Kolisa Yola Sinyanya 