La Lucia lecturer nominated for national award

WITH the sixth Woman of Stature Awards coming up in March, La Lucia resident, Dr Sheetal Bhoola is preparing to take the stage. She is one of 80 nominees – all prominent South African women who will be competing for one of 12 awards including Entrepreneur of the Year and Youth Ambassador. The awards acknowledge women who are making strides in a number of fields including agriculture, technology, sport, media and education. The gala dinner will take place on Sunday, 8 March at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Johannesburg.

Launched in April 2013, Woman of Stature’s purpose is to inspire and empower women from all walks of life, said managing director Charlotte du Plessis.

“The 80 finalists are each prominent within their respective communities and have reached considerable heights within their careers. They reflect our values and focus at Woman of Stature, which is empowering other women whether through active mentorship, or just by setting the example for leading a purposeful life,” he said.

Bhoola, who is a lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal within the School of Social Sciences was nominated for the Women in Education award. She is also a post-doctoral scholar, having been awarded the Andrew Mellon Foundation Fellowship. Her current research is focused on the migration of the Indian diaspora, she said.

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She completed her PHD in anthropology in 2013.

“I looked at developing a marketing approach for culinary tourism in KwaZulu Natal. Trying ethnic cuisine is an integral part of the travel experience, and Durban’s offerings can be lucrative with the right marketing, she added.

“If you look at the diverse and cosmopolitan mix of people here in Durban. The beautiful part of cuisine here is that its taken on a very interesting local influence,” said Bhoola.

From an anthropological view, food represents social milieus, traditions and customs.

“My research has been able to reach grassroot levels- it’s directed at sustainable development and possible economic growth. It’s got relevance and value because it can create jobs and benefit society,” she said.

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Bhoola, who flew to Johannesburg for an interview to qualify, was surprised to make it to the finals for the award.
“I think it’s a nice recognition for the various aspects of my life. The Philanthropy, the academic development and growth and the fact that I do radio talk shows as a community service,” she said.

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