2024 Pivoting Fellow
Foundation
Elvin Chizenga
Lightaceutics, South Africa
Elvin earned his MTech and Ph.D. from the University of Johannesburg in 2019 and 2023, where he pioneered research on the therapeutic effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for cancer. He developed an innovative nanoparticle, antibody, and phthalocyanine scaffold for targeted delivery of photosensitizers to HPV-transformed cancer cells. His postgraduate research won four accolades, including the vice chancellor's gold medal for the most meritorious study of the year, at his graduation ceremony. In 2024, Elvin founded Lightaceutics, a start-up leveraging biophotonics, computer vision, AI, and machine learning to tackle critical healthcare challenges, especially in underserved communities. Through market research for his business, he recognized a widespread knowledge gap and the urgent need for expert guidance on the safe use of light-based therapies. To address this, he launched LightUp, a podcast and newsletter that educates and informs at the business, public, and policy levels. Today, Elvin leads his start-up and podcast, with growing support from industry partners, NGOs, and government agencies.
