In recognition of her outstanding scientific excellence and groundbreaking contributions to gender and health research, particularly in addressing gender-based violence (GBV), Professor Rachel Jewkes has been awarded the 2025 ASSAf Science-for-Society Gold Medal.

An A1-rated scientist with over 336 peer-reviewed publications and an h-index of 105, Prof Jewkes has devoted more than 30 years to advancing knowledge, developing interventions, and influencing global policy to prevent GBV and improve health outcomes. Her leadership in pioneering initiatives such as the Sexual Violence Research Initiative and the What Works Global Programme has transformed the field, demonstrating that violence against women can indeed be prevented.

Prof Jewkes’ research has had a profound global impact — empowering women and girls, shaping evidence-based policy, and addressing one of the most urgent social and public health challenges of our time. ASSAf proudly recognises her sterling contributions to science and society through the conferral of the 2025 Gold Medal.