Ria Olivier, principal investigator and project manager of the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA), was awarded the Social Impact Award by Stellenbosch University. This prestigious recognition celebrates Ria’s commitment to the legacy of South Africa’s contributions to the Antarctic region and the influence of her work on both the scientific community and broader society. Click here for video clip of Dr Leslie van Rooi introduction for the award.
Left: Dr. Anne Treasure receiving the award (middle) on behalf of Ria Olivier with Dr Nico Koopman Right: Ria Olivier
Ria Olivier’s journey with the ALSA, an initiative that aims to document, preserve, and share South Africa’s historical and ongoing scientific engagement with Antarctica, has been transformative. The ALSA project, under Ria’s leadership, has provided a critical platform to highlight the significance of South Africa’s role in global polar research, while also fostering deeper understanding and connections between science, education, and the public.
Her role in the ALSA project has allowed her to build an invaluable repository of knowledge, connecting the past and present of South African polar research. Through ALSA, Ria has curated exhibitions, launched outreach programs, and played a key role in research dissemination, all while emphasising the importance of these endeavours for future generations. For Ria, the Antarctic Legacy project is not only about preserving history, it is about making the science accessible and relatable to all. By engaging with local communities, students, and even international stakeholders, she has ensured that the work being done within SANAP resonates beyond the scientific community.
Above: Dr Leslie van Rooi, Dr Anne Treasure, Dr Ellen Tise and Dr Nico Koopman.
The Social Impact Award from Stellenbosch University is a testament to Ria’s work. The university recognised Ria for her work in not only promoting South African polar research but also for making it accessible, relevant, and inspiring for the next generation of researchers, scientists, and citizens. The award also acknowledges Ria’s role in establishing key partnerships between ALSA, Stellenbosch University, and other institutions and organisations, which has allowed the project to thrive and grow in scope.
Ria Olivier’s work at ALSA is a prime example of how science and social responsibility intersect. By preserving and sharing the stories of South Africa’s involvement in the Antarctic region, Ria is not just chronicling a historical legacy — she is creating a living narrative that connects people. Her passion for polar research and her ability to inspire others ensures that the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa will continue to thrive for years to come, sparking curiosity, education, and advocacy across borders and generations.
Congratulations to Ria Olivier on receiving the Social Impact Award from Stellenbosch University!
“I am truly honored and deeply grateful to receive this Social Impact Award. This recognition is not just a motivation but reminds me of the importance of the work the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa is doing to create a positive society within the SA National Antarctic Programme. First, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Dr Anne Treasure (collaborator- ALSA) for nominating me. Your belief in my work means the world to me, and I am fortunate to have your support.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to Stellenbosch University and the Department of Botany and Zoology for hosting ALSA. It is thanks to the resources and opportunities provided at the University and funding via the National Research Foundation that I am able to pursue meaningful work. I am incredibly fortunate to have had the mentorship of Prof Steven Chown, whose wisdom have been invaluable in guiding me and of course, I would like to acknowledge the tireless work of John Cooper, whose expertise continue to inspire ALSA’s efforts. A thank you to Dr Gilbert Siko of DSTI and Tracy Klarenbeek NRF for their guidance and encouragement. Together, with my collaborators and the SANAP community we are making a difference, and I am excited to continue this journey alongside such an incredible community.
Thank you again for this recognition, and I look forward to what can be achieved in the future.” – Ria Olivier
Anne’s acceptance speech on behalf of Ria (after reading Ria’s speech above):
Good evening colleagues,
It is an incredible honour to stand here and accept this award on behalf of Ria Olivier. She is truly deserving of this recognition, and I know how much this award means to her, as you have just heard. Ria has made a remarkable impact through the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa project. Her dedication, hard work, and passion have left a lasting legacy not just in preserving the history of South Africa’s involvement in the Antarctic region but in the lives of everyone she has inspired.
Ria is the glue that brings the Antarctic community in South Africa together. She has nonstop energy and a passion for helping people and providing support wherever possible, building confidence, spreading positivity and enthusiasm and inspiring others to stay positive and motivated. While at the same time creating awareness about the polar regions and South Africa’s involvement with them, preserving our legacy there as a source of pride. She was also instrumental in establishing the Data, Products and Society node of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure at Stellenbosch, where I work.
I won’t go through the list of thank yous, as I have just read these in Ria’s words. Thank you for recognising Ria’s incredible work. This moment is a testament to her enduring influence and I’m honoured to accept the award on her behalf.
Thank you – Dr Anne Treasure – SA Polar Research Infrastructure – DPS Node