From a rural town in the Eastern Cape to the heart of one of the world’s most advanced industries, Linda Ngozwana is reaching for the stars.
The 31-year-old from Butterworth is making her mark as a systems engineer in the UK’s space industry; turning childhood wonder into a remarkable career.
Driven by a deep curiosity for how things work from a young age, Linda Ngozwana always knew she was destined to build, innovate, and break new ground.
She began her academic journey at the University of the Witwatersrand, where she earned a degree in aeronautical engineering, a field that focuses on the design and development of aircraft that operate within Earth’s atmosphere.
“It was a field that challenged and fascinated me from day one,” she said, recalling how her strength in maths and physics naturally drew her towards aviation and engineering.
Her ambition soon took her even further — beyond the skies and into space.
She pursued a master’s degree in astronautics and space engineering at Cranfield University in the UK, a move that would catapult her into the growing global space sector.
“I discovered aeronautical engineering while exploring university options and was immediately intrigued.
“I spoke with professionals in aviation who inspired me,” Ngozwana said.
“I also understood early on that opportunities in SA’s aerospace industry were limited, so I kept an open mind about expanding into new territories.”
The global rise of the space industry caught her attention. Countries were investing in space capabilities, and she was determined to be part of that momentum.
“Studying in the UK gave me the technical foundation I needed, and from there, I was fortunate to secure a role within the industry,” she said.
Working on systems that will one day operate in space still feels surreal to her.
“You’re contributing to something far greater than yourself — missions that expand our understanding of the universe, drive innovation, and inspire future generations.
“It’s challenging, yes, but deeply rewarding.”
As a black woman in engineering, Ngozwana is acutely aware of the barriers that persist in Stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
Often the only black woman in professional settings, she’s faced her share of challenges — being underestimated, navigating cultural gaps, and having to prove her place.
“What’s helped me is building a strong support system — mentors, allies, and colleagues who believe in me.
“I’ve learnt to focus on the purpose behind my work and the value I bring, not the assumptions people make about me,” she said.
Books such as The Culture Map by Erin Meyer helped her understand how to communicate and collaborate across cultures — skills that have served her well in international teams.
“I’ve learnt not to limit myself. I belong in this space, and I want other young women to know they do too.”
Ngozwana is also passionate about creating change.
She cofounded Moonshot Africa with Siyanda Hlathi and Mbali Mfeka to make the space industry more inclusive and accessible to African youth.
“Moonshot Africa was born from my own experience navigating the space sector.
“Africa is full of talent, but there’s limited access to opportunity. We want to change that.”
Their programmes raise awareness about careers in space, build essential skills, and provide mentorship to high school and university students across the continent.
“We’re showing that space isn’t just for the privileged few. Every young African should have a shot at the moon.”
Daily Dispatch
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