Prof Dephney Mathebula-Periola, a professor in the Department of Computational Sciences, Pure and Applied Mathematics Discipline, at the University of Fort Hare, is a beacon of academic success. She holds a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Venda, becoming the first South African to achieve this milestone. Her work spans teaching undergraduate and post-graduate modules, conducting research in DHET-accredited journals, supervising doctoral students and postdoctoral fellows, and providing academic leadership and mentorship. She is deeply passionate about nurturing young talent in STEM, both inside and beyond the classroom. A typical day for her is a delicate balance of lectures, research collaborations, and mentorship. Yet, she finds her greatest joy in witnessing her students’ “lightbulb moments”—when complex problems suddenly click. These moments, she says, are the most exciting and fulfilling part of her work. They reflect her lifelong love for mathematics, inspired by her sister Conny Mabunda, whose joy in problem-solving sparked Mathebula-Periola’s passion. Beyond academia, she celebrates student and mentee achievements on social media, coining the term, “Celebration waya waya” to highlight growth and success. Her accolades include membership in the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) and being named one of the Top 100 Career Women in Africa. Her guiding principle is integrity and perseverance: “Be honest with yourself and those around you, treat setbacks as motivation, and invite God into every journey of your life.” She encourages aspiring professionals to seek mentors who inspire and support their path.
QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in Mathematics, University of Venda.
- Master of Science (MSc) in Mathematics, Stellenbosch University
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Mathematics, Stellenbosch University,
- Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Mathematics and Statistics, University of Venda
ACHIEVEMENTS
- Elected as a member of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) — a prestigious UK membership awarded to mathematicians of senior professional standing, 2025
- Recognised as one of the Top 100 Career Women in Africa, 2024
- Appointed Professor of Mathematics at the University of Fort Hare, 2025
- Inspirational Influencer Award nominee by the International Association of Women, 2022
- Inspiring Fifty South Africa nominee, 2021
- Chosen as one of the 10 phenomenal women in Limpopo Province by WODSA, 2019
