Dr Khosi Mpofana is a leading expert in Traditional Medicine and Somatology, with a research focus on African medicinal plants and their applications in skin health—particularly for individuals with darker skin tones. Her work explores ethnobotanical, biochemical, genetic, wound-healing, and anti-aging properties of indigenous plants, underpinned by evidence-based and culturally relevant approaches.

Her interdisciplinary expertise includes photobiology, controlled wound healing, melasma, anti-tyrosinase, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and inclusive skincare. She has published over 30 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored four book chapters across diverse fields, including somatology, dermatology, genetics, cosmetic science, HIV/AIDS, and public health.

Dr Khosi Mpofana leads two major initiatives:

• Translingual Competence in Health Professions Education (2024–2026): Addressing language barriers in rural healthcare.
• Design Thinking for Inclusive Wellness: Promoting holistic care for the LGBTQIA+ community.

She is a recipient of prestigious research grants from the USDP and NRF. She was honoured with the 2024 DUT Research Innovation and Engagement Gold Award for her contributions to multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research.

A passionate mentor, Dr Khosi Mpofana, supervises postgraduate students who actively publish and present at national conferences, fostering the next generation of scholars. She also serves as a reviewer for several high-impact academic journals.

ORCID: ORCID: 0000-0002-3007-1147