Prof Maritha Kotze is a Registered Principal Medical Scientist jointly appointed by Stellenbosch University and the National Health Laboratory Service. She pioneered the integration of research and service delivery via a uniquely South African pathology-supported genetic testing platform, recognized as best practice by the International Consortium of Personalised Medicine in 2020. Inspired to improve communication and data sharing between the laboratory and clinic, she founded Gknowmix in 2007 as a database tool for research translation into clinical practice. Advancing point-of-care testing to whole genome sequencing positioned her in a leading role, connecting academia and industry players as an innovation enabler.