Ms. Xhakaza recently joined the HIGENES (Hearing Impairment Genetics) group as a laboratory technician. Her work focuses in performing lab analyses, conducting lab tests, and managing sample and data handling. She holds a bachelor’s degree majoring in Biochemistry and Human Physiology as well as an honours degree in biochemistry from the University of Johannesburg. She completed her MSc degree in Biotechnology at the University of the Western Cape. She had also undertaken an NRF internship that focused on identifying the toxicity of a cancer treatment. These activities laid the groundwork for her communication skills while also expanding her experience as a professional in her area, which will be vital in accomplishing her long-term goals.