A newly described fish species, Valenciennea zaboae (Noxie’s Bluestreak Goby), has been named in honour of NRF-SAIAB staff member Nokuzola “Noxie” Zabo, in recognition of her more than three decades of dedicated service to the Institute. The species was described by NRF-SAIAB scientists Dr Fatah Zarei and Prof. Albert Chakona in a recent Zootaxa publication (https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5807.2.6). The naming acknowledges Nokuzola’s longstanding contribution to creating and maintaining a supportive and welcoming working environment that has enabled scientific productivity and academic achievement. While support staff often work behind the scenes, their efforts are vital to the success of research institutions and the advancement of scientific excellence.
The authors noted that the naming was intended as a lasting recognition of Nokuzola’s contribution to the Institute. “Valenciennea zaboae is named in honour of Ms Nokuzola Zabo, who joined the NRF-SAIAB as a teenager and, for over three decades, has played a vital role in maintaining a supportive and aesthetically conducive working environment that has enabled productivity and academic achievement in the Institute,” the authors said. “Colleagues in such essential roles often remain in the background. Through this dedication, we aim to formally acknowledge and preserve Noxie’s contributions.”
Valenciennea zaboae is endemic to the western Indian Ocean and has been recorded from South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Comoros, Seychelles, Madagascar, Réunion and the Maldives. The species is found in coral reef areas across the western Indian Ocean, a region known for its rich variety of marine life. Researchers say documenting and describing species such as Valenciennea zaboae helps improve our understanding of ocean biodiversity and highlights the importance of protecting these marine ecosystems.
Valenciennea zaboae from Sodwana Bay, South Africa. Photo by Adrian Pearton
For Nokuzola, the honour came as a complete surprise. “I was so shocked when I heard about this,” she said. “As much as I have been working at the Institute for 34 years, I never thought there would be a fish named after me. I feel appreciated.” She said the recognition carries special meaning both personally and professionally. “My family was very happy when they heard the news and professionally this recognition proves to me that I am living the values of the Institute.”
Nokuzola joined NRF-SAIAB in 1992 as a teenager with aspirations of completing her matric and building a better future for herself. Through opportunities provided by NRF-SAIAB and Rhodes University, she was able to achieve that goal and complete her matric. “NRF-SAIAB, through Rhodes University, made my dream of obtaining matric possible and later supported me in completing an Administration short course at Rhodes University and another at Damelin College,” she said.
Committed to personal and professional growth, Nokuzola continued developing her skills while carrying out her responsibilities at the Institute, including completing a Computer Literacy course. Although her career aspirations took time to materialise, she remained determined to learn and grow, often assisting colleagues with administrative tasks to broaden her experience.
Over the years, NRF-SAIAB has played a transformative role in her life. From arriving as a young woman eager for exposure and opportunity, she has gained experiences she once only dreamed about, including obtaining her driver’s licence, travelling by plane and boat for the first time, and receiving two awards during the 2024 NRF Employee Recognition Awards.
Beyond her work responsibilities, Nokuzola has built lasting relationships with colleagues and describes NRF-SAIAB as a second family. “NRF-SAIAB has been like a second family to me. When my mother was sick and when I had a sick child, SAIAB was there for me and visited my home frequently,” she said.
Working in a diverse institution has taught her the importance of respecting differences and navigating challenges with understanding and professionalism. These skills have extended beyond the workplace into her community involvement. “The skills I gained here I also use at church and in my community,” she said. In addition to her role at NRF-SAIAB, Nokuzola has served as a ward committee member and continues to represent labour as a shop steward at NRF-SAIAB.
Reflecting on her journey, Nokuzola hopes her story will inspire others to remain patient and committed to their goals. “Do not give up on your dreams,” she said. “Be patient because everything has its time.” After more than three decades of service, the naming of Valenciennea zaboae stands as a lasting tribute to Nokuzola’s dedication and contribution to NRF-SAIAB. It also serves as a reminder that the success of scientific institutions is built not only by researchers, but by the many individuals whose commitment and hard work support science every day.
