Prof Keo Motaung

Prof Keo Motaung  
Founder and CEO of Global Health Biotech (PTY) Ltd

Prof Keo Motaung, is a trailblazing Biomedical Scientist, Full Professor, and Founder and CEO of Global Health Biotech (PTY) Ltd, with over 25 years of experience in higher education. Her career is defined by her dedication to research, innovation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship, particularly in advancing biotechnology and empowering women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Innovation (STEAMI).

Throughout her academic journey, she has led significant efforts in teaching, designing curricula, and mentoring students, encouraging them to become not only scientists but also entrepreneurs. In 2016, drawing from her research into medicinal plants and tissue engineering, she founded Global Health Biotech, a company focused on plant-based medicinal technologies.

One of its standout innovations is La-Africa Soother, a natural anti-inflammatory ointment for athletes and those with musculoskeletal injuries. For her ground-breaking innovation, she has received recognition from a wide spectrum of institutions because she has thrown the gauntlet in bridging the gap between science, commercialisation and entrepreneurship.

Beyond her company, Professor Motaung serves as a board member of the Technology Innovation Agency, providing strategic guidance on technological innovation and commercialization. As Chairperson of the Community of Practice for Entrepreneurship Research within the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education initiative, she leads efforts across South Africa's universities to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Her influence extends to shaping intellectual property policies as Chairperson of the National Intellectual Property Management Office Advisory Board, ensuring equitable IP management to support commercialization. A staunch advocate for diversity in STEAMI, Professor Motaung also works to create opportunities for women in science and technology, contributing to a more inclusive research environment. Her passion for science, innovation, and commercialization, combined with her leadership in capacity building and mentorship, positions her as a transformative force in biotechnology and entrepreneurship.