At just 24 years old, New Germany resident Alyssa Tyla Christopher has achieved what many young people only dream of – graduating with a Master’s Degree in Pharmacy from the University of KwaZulu-Natal with an impressive 82% for her dissertation.
The dedicated young pharmacist, who attended Berea Primary School and later Westville Girls’ High School, has built an outstanding academic record that includes scholarships, Dean’s Commendations, Golden Key International Honour Society membership and a summa cum laude Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy.
Today, Alyssa works as a Responsible Pharmacist and hopes to contribute to medicine safety and public health in South Africa through research and pharmacovigilance.
The Springfield Weekly Gazette (SWG) invited Alyssa Christopher (AC) for an exclusive interview to discuss her journey, challenges, achievements and future aspirations.
SWG: Tell us about yourself and growing up in New Germany.
AC: I am 25 years old and have lived in New Germany my entire life. I completed my schooling at Berea Primary and Westville Girls’ High School before studying Pharmacy at UKZN. Growing up in New Germany was wonderful and peaceful, surrounded by nature and family.
I have many fond memories of family gatherings, pool parties and karaoke nights. Although I’m an only child, I’m very close to my cousins and consider them siblings. I also value friendship and have remained close to friends since Grade 1. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends and staying active through strength training.
SWG: How did it feel graduating with a Master’s Degree at such a young age?
AC: It was incredibly rewarding. I felt immense joy knowing that all the hard work, sacrifices and dedication had finally paid off.
SWG: What inspired you to pursue Pharmacy?
AC: I’ve always wanted to help people and had a strong interest in medicine. Pharmacy allowed me to combine both passions and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
SWG: Tell us about your research and why it matters.
AC: My dissertation, titled “Comparing the Registration Status of Medicines in South Africa to International Status”, examined medicines available in South Africa that have been withdrawn or restricted elsewhere. The research highlighted the complexity of medicine regulation and the importance of monitoring international safety trends. It encourages healthcare professionals and the pharmaceutical industry to remain informed and ensure medicines are continuously reviewed to protect patients.
SWG: What were some of the biggest challenges during your Master’s studies?
AC: The degree demanded far more mental endurance than I expected. There were long days spent reading, analysing research and meeting deadlines. At times I felt overwhelmed and questioned whether I could complete it, but perseverance helped me push through.
SWG: How did Westville Girls’ High School shape your academic journey?
AC: Two teachers played a major role in my development. My English teacher and debating coach, Miss Immelman, inspired my love for writing, research and public speaking. My Physics teacher, Mr Moodley, sparked my interest in science and taught me the value of being tenacious.
SWG: Who motivated and supported you throughout your studies?
AC: My late grandmother, Shireen Hassiem, remains my greatest inspiration. She passed away in 2021, but her strength and resilience stayed with me throughout my studies. I dedicated my thesis to her. My parents and family have also been my biggest supporters and cheerleaders.
SWG: What sacrifices did you make to achieve success?
AC: I sacrificed a lot of personal time, spending long hours working on my studies, often late into the night and over weekends. There were many occasions when I chose academic commitments over social activities.
SWG: Were there moments when you wanted to give up?
AC: Absolutely. There were times when the workload felt overwhelming. My father always compared my journey to climbing a mountain. He reminded me that the climb would be difficult, but reaching the top would make it worthwhile. That kept me going.
SWG: What does this achievement mean to your family?
AC: My family is incredibly proud. They believe my achievements will inspire future generations within our family to pursue their own goals.
SWG: What advice would you give young women pursuing careers in science and healthcare?
AC: Research different career paths, understand their requirements and choose a field that aligns with your interests. Set clear goals, work consistently and remain resilient throughout the journey.
SWG: What are your future plans?
AC: I currently work as a Responsible Pharmacist and hope to move into pharmacovigilance. I am passionate about medicine safety and would like to contribute to research that improves the safety of medicines in South Africa.
SWG: Are you considering a PhD?
Alyssa: Yes. I plan to pursue a PhD in the future and continue researching medicine regulatory frameworks in South Africa.
SWG: What message would you like to share with learners?
Alyssa: Be intentional about your goals and be willing to make sacrifices to achieve them. Don’t fear mistakes—they are opportunities to learn. One quote that guided me is, “Comfort is cozy, but nothing grows there.” Growth often happens during uncomfortable moments.
SWG: How important are discipline and consistency?
Alyssa: They are essential. Staying organised, following a routine and breaking large tasks into smaller goals helped me stay focused and productive. Consistency played a major role in my success.
SWG: Looking back, what are you most proud of?
Alyssa: I am proud of my determination. There were setbacks and unexpected challenges, but I adapted and remained committed to my goals. Completing my Master’s Degree is one of my proudest achievements.
SWG: Is there anyone you would like to acknowledge?
Alyssa: I would like to thank my supervisors, Professor Frasia Oosthuizen and Dr Deanne Mary Graham Johnston, for their guidance, support and mentorship throughout my Master’s journey.
SWG: Describe the moment you crossed the graduation stage.
Alyssa: It was unforgettable. I saw my parents and family cheering for me and, in that moment, I realised I had reached what my dad called the “mountain-top experience”. It was a powerful reminder that all the hard work had been worth it.
SWG: What impact do you hope to make through your work?
Alyssa: I hope my research promotes greater awareness of medicine safety and encourages healthcare professionals and the pharmaceutical industry to stay informed about international safety developments. Ultimately, I want to contribute to better public health and safer medicines for South Africans.
QUICK FIRE WITH ALYSSA
Favourite place in New Germany? Home, where family memories are made.
Biggest inspiration?
My late grandmother, Shireen Hassiem.
Life motto?
”Comfort is cozy, but nothing grows there.”
Dream for the future?
To complete a PhD and contribute to medicine safety research in South Africa.
One word that describes your journey?
Resilience.
