The HSRC is pleased to present the first HSRC Connect episode of 2025. In this ninth episode, renowned South African scientist Wieland Gevers offers a unique perspective on life’s meaning, informed by his remarkable career in biomedical research, education, and science advocacy. His reflections explore the interplay between science, philosophy, and personal experience, addressing profound questions about purpose and existence. This HSRC Connect panel discussion will celebrate Gevers’ contributions while creating a platform for multidisciplinary dialogue on life’s meaning in the South African and global context.
Panelists:
Prof. Wieland Gevers: As the central figure, sharing reflections on his life and work.
Prof. Denver Hendricks: Retired previous Head of Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town.
Dr Michael Gastrow: Director in the HSRC’s Impact Centre.
Facilitator:
Dr Nicole van Rheede
The book, The Meaning of a Life: A South African Scientist’s Tale was proudly published by Best Red Book, a division of the HSRC Press. Written by Gevers himself, it is a memoir of a South African scientist and academic leader who honestly explores the inter-relation between professional/public and private life, revealing what happens to a person’s inner being and family as a career unfolds over a lifetime. It shows how chance and opportunity affect such a life, how the elusive qualities responsible for repeated survival and success can be retrospectively identified, with lessons for the young and hopeful who might wish to tread on a similar path.
The HSRC Connect is a dynamic and innovative audio-visual production unit within the Communication and Engagement department of the HSRC’s Impact Centre, aimed at delivering high-quality content for various platforms. Our mission is to create compelling and visually stunning productions that engage, entertain, and inspire HSRC staff, stakeholders and the greater research community.
THE HSRC CONNECT is centred around social sciences. The Connect aims to:
- shed light on the rich diversity and unique socio-cultural dynamics of the African continent and,
- captivate a wide audience to promote the work of the HSRC.
Watch the episode live, airing on Tuesday, 18 March, 13:00pm: