Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, PhD has served as the 6th and First Female President of the Republic of Mauritius (2015-2018). Prior to that, she has been the Managing Director of the “Centre International de Développement Pharmaceutique” (CIDP R & I) where she had translated her research work into an entreprise providing solutions to industry such as the cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical sectors. She has been appointed the first female Professor of Organic Chemistry with an endowed chair at the University of Mauritius. Since 2001, she has served successively as Dean of the Faculty of Science and Pro Vice Chancellor (2004-2010). She has authored and co-edited 30 books, and scientific articles in the field of biodiversity conservation, sustainable development and Traditional knowledge. She is the recipient of numerous international awards including the L’Oreal Unesco Prize for Women in Science (2007) and the African Union Prize (2009) and seven Honorary Doctorates.