Seemela Desiree Malope is a PhD candidate fellow in the REACCT-CAN at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. Her research focuses on the understanding and solutions for early-stage detection of breast cancer among Black women in Soweto.

Using anthropological research methods such as focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and participant observation, she explores how breast cancer is understood and experienced by women in the community. Her goal is to identify the factors influencing perceptions, responses, and learning preferences related to breast cancer to improve screening and early detection/diagnosis.