Biography
Gift Gwawawa is an inspired and award-winning scientist dedicated to advancing the healthcare industry through innovation, with a profound passion for improving cancer care globally. His journey is marked by exceptional academic and entrepreneurial achievements, including the prestigious Presidential Award for best student, a ZimDEF award for an innovative start-up project, and both the Faculty of Science and Technology and MSU Book Prizes.
Driven by a strong sense of social responsibility, Gift founded the MSU Biotechnology Society, uniting over 100 biotechnology scientists and fostering a community of scientific collaboration. He is a prominent voice in science communication, frequently appearing on radio and TV to promote science and technology, and to raise crucial awareness about cancer prevention and the life-saving importance of early detection. This passion for practical impact led him to found Rejuvenate Technologies, a start-up initiative he directs as a non-executive, which is focused on launching biotechnology projects in Zimbabwe and Southern Africa to solve local challenges, create value, and generate employment.
Currently based in Oxford, United Kingdom, Gift is deepening his expertise at the forefront of cancer research. He has completed an MSc in Applied Cancer Science at the University of Oxford's Department of Oncology and is now continuing his work as a DPhil (PhD) student in the O'Neill Laboratory. His research investigates how changes in the extracellular matrix—the intricate network surrounding tumours—can unlock new avenues for early cancer detection and more effective therapies, perfectly aligning his academic pursuits with his overarching mission to make a tangible difference in the fight against cancer.