By Willemien Jansen (HST Copy and Content Editor)
Ntombifuthi Blose is a passionate data scientist who loves a challenge. We recently sat down with her to get to know her better.
How long have you been with HST and which position/s have you occupied?
I joined Health Systems Trust (HST) on the 1 February 2024 in the position of Data Scientist for the Research and Implementation Sciences (RIS) unit, so it's been one year since I joined the organisation.
Please share some information about what your current role entails.
My role involves capturing, quality-controlling, and analysing national, provincial, and district-level health statistics from various reports and the District Health Information (DHIS) to inform policy, support evidence-based decision-making, and guide priority setting. Specifically, I contribute to the production of the Indicators Chapter of the South African Health Review and the District Health Barometer.
I also lead a project aimed at developing an innovative data communication strategy to enhance evidence-based decision-making in public health. This project focuses on debunking misinformation on HIV and TB using various analytical approaches, with the final product being a user-friendly, public-facing dashboard and website.
Additionally, I provide support for several UNICEF, National Department of Health, and South African Medical Research Council-funded projects, contributing to data-driven insights that shape public health interventions.
What influenced your decision to be in the development/non-governmental organisation sector?
My passion lies in working with real-life data to generate insights that directly impact healthcare resource allocation in South Africa. By analysing health trends and system gaps, I aim to support evidence-based decision-making that strengthens our healthcare system. Being in the development/NGO sector allows me to bridge data with action—ensuring that resources are directed where they are needed most to improve health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations. This alignment between data, policy, and impact (in bold, I'm very passionate about this one) is what drives my work.
How do you spend your time away from work?
When I'm not working, I spend my time in two ways—either immersing myself in other research or making memories with my kids. On my own, I love staying up-to-date with the latest in public health and epidemiology news—yes, I'm a typical academic and a bit of a nerd! I also really enjoy going to the gym, though I wish I had more time to go more often.
With my kids, we love being out and about—whether it's a day at the beach or discovering new restaurants. As Durbanites, exploring Cape Town has been such a fun adventure for us, especially visiting different play parks and trying out new spots to eat.
What gives you motivation?
I find motivation in being consistently challenged—whether at work or in other aspects of life. The opportunity to tackle complex problems, learn, and grow keeps me driven and eager to push forward, no matter what. Challenges spark curiosity, resilience, and innovation, and that's what keeps me inspired to keep going.
What is the best advice you've ever received in your life? (personal or professional)
Personal advice: Work can wait, because your children won't remember you as a professional—they'll remember you as an absent parent. Make time for your loved ones; those moments matter the most.
Professional advice: Being an asset isn't just about mastering one thing—it's about knowing a little about everything. A broad understanding across different areas makes you adaptable, resourceful, and invaluable in any field.
Any future aspirations?
Looking ahead, I aspire to continue shaping public health policy through data-driven insights, ensuring that research translates into real-world impact. I want to contribute to building stronger health systems, particularly in how we address HIV and TB.
Academically, I aim to complete my PhD and expand my research on the evolving behavioural factors influencing health outcomes in hyper-endemic rural settings. I also want to engage more in science communication to make public health knowledge more accessible.
On a personal level, I am committed to nurturing both my career and family life, ensuring that I grow professionally while also creating cherished moments with my kids.
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