Hlengiwe Ngubane
Women in the Environment and Sustainability
Nominee's Province:
Kwazulu-natal
Project Name/Description:
Researcher – University of KwaZulu-Natal
Hlengiwe Ngubane, a Master’s student in Architectural Studies, is passionate about sustainable design. Ngubane was honoured to receive the Brain Bernstein Scholarship for being the top achieving student in the Bachelor of Architectural Studies programme. She was also selected as a recipient of the Sherwood-Bond Scholarship, a prestigious award presented at a special ceremony.
Furthermore, she participated in the UIA World Congress of Architects, was awarded the Best Collaborator Award in sustainable design and also named the Future Sustainability Leader in Next Generation Sustainable Design.
Beyond academics, Ngubane tutors Housing Technology, which blends her passion for drawing with teaching, contributing to future architects’ education.
“Facing gender disparities in architecture, I’ve broken barriers through competence, determination, and a strong work ethic. Supportive initiatives have helped me navigate challenges in the male-dominated field,” she says. Ngubane believes progress regarding inclusivity is evidenced by more women taking up leadership roles in academia and industry.
“Representation, mentorship, and inclusive policies drive positive change, benefiting women and the architectural landscape.”
