7-8 March 2024
Adelaide Karomo
Adelaide is a PhD (Public Law) candidate at Nelson Mandela University. Her thesis provides recommendations on the deep seabed mining legislation that should be developed by South Africa, as a prospective sponsoring State, to effectively regulate mining activities by its nationals in the Area, based on lessons learnt from the United Kingdom’s deep seabed mining regime. Adelaide has presented conference papers at several national and international conferences. She is also responsible for equality promotion and social inclusion advocacy and training at the Nelson Mandela University’s Transformation Office. Adelaide is also involved in the lecturing and tutoring of several undergraduate law modules. Adelaide is passionate about inter alia, Human Rights Law, Immigration Law, social justice, and African feminism.
Sakhile Phiri
Sakhile Phiri is a lecturer and programme leader of the undergraduate degree programme in Development Studies at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, South Africa. His main areas of teaching and research are around African economic development, development policy, decolonization, and research methodologies. He supervises students in the broad areas of poverty alleviation, entrepreneurship, unemployment and employability. His other research focus areas include higher education and the labour market. He is currently busy with a PhD which focuses on graduate employability. He recently contributed c-authored a chapter in the book ‘Decolonizing African Studies Pedagogies: Knowledge Production, Epistemic Imperialism and Black Agency’
Reetumetsi Malefane
As an early career Academic and Lecturer at Nelson Mandela University, I bring a blend of professional experience and academic rigor to the field of architecture. With industry-built practice as a Professional Architect, I have honed an understanding the application of architectural principles and their real-world applications. My academic journey started with my master’s in architecture, with my treatise exploring themes of culture and identity in contested socio-spatial landscapes. The research explored how subjugated narratives of architectural representation and cultural practices can confront the hegemonic colonial constructs of Architecture in public spaces. The Design Proposal demonstrated how architectural hybridity could serve as a catalyst for forging a new African discourse, fostering dialogues between dominant narratives of colonial rule and subjugated narratives of an African discourse. Building upon this foundation, my current research focuses on Decolonizing Architectural Pedagogy, fostering experimental and qualitative methodologies through the integration of indigenous knowledge systems in the curriculum, challenging epistemic canon of knowledge production in architectural education. The outcome demonstrates a new blended, innovative hybridized Architectural solutions that embody local cultural identities and advanced construction technical strategies for sustainable building practices in African contexts. The research promotes a model for architectural education that nurtures local materiality and cultural heritage, while embracing emerging construction ingenuity in architectural practices.
Molefhi Phorego
I am a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Faculty of Law, Public Law Department, Nelson Mandela University. Having obtained the degrees Doctor of Laws (LLD Public Law) at the Nelson Mandela University, LLM (Public Law) and Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Pretoria, my research areas of interest are in Constitutional Law, Human Rights, Administrative Law, and Marine Law Enforcement. I am particularly interested in the study of presidentialism, and the impact presidential powers have on the doctrine of separation of powers. I also have a keen interest in the intersection between law and politics. My research straddles across the study of presidential powers, and the role of various oversight institutions in the process. In my career, I hope to play an incremental role in fighting injustice as an academic through publications. I am very passionate about the role played by the law in good governance and the impact it has on the everyday citizenry. I have a special interest in the constitutional principles of accountability and the rule of law. I am also involved in the co-supervision of Master of Laws (LLM Public Law) students at the Nelson Mandela University.
Veonna Goliath
Among the 14 chapters, seven were authored by black social work academics hailing from institutions such as Wits, UJ, Stellenbosch, Unisa, WSU, Fort Hare, and UKZN. At Mandela University, the editors (and authors) were Prof Anneline Keet, Dr Nevashnee Perumal, and Prof Veonna Goliath – all three are academics in the Social Work program. Additionally, other Mandela University authors include Mrs. Zukiswa Gwam, Dr. Razia Lagardien, Dr. Zurina Abdulla (all academics), and M student Mr. Vuyo Diko, all affiliated with the same department. The remaining authors represent various universities, and their names, along with their respective affiliations, can be found in the attachment.
Jasmine Kinsman
Dr Jasmine Kinsman has more than 10 years teaching and research experience in the field of financial planning, and was awarded the emerging excellent teacher of the year at both faculty and institutional level in 2018. Dr Kinsman also serves on the Board of Trustees of the NMU Retirement Fund as a member elected trustee. She is an advocate for inclusive financial planning which is representative of all South African consumers given the country’s diverse cultural backgrounds and history of financial exclusion. Her current research interests include financial literacy, African financial planning and cultural intelligence in financial planning.
Magda Minguzzi
Associate Professor of the School of Architecture and Researcher Institute for Coastal and Marine Research at Nelson Mandela University. My field of research is tangible and intangible indigenous heritage in South Africa, Indigenous Knowledge System of the built environment, with a specific focus on the First Indigenous Peoples.
The working group I am leading was formed in 2015 under the umbrella of the School of Architecture and is composed of Khoena and San Chiefs and community members, students and staff. Since then, our focus has been on community engagement projects, setting up a post-colonial indigenous framework to work with, and shifting with those research projects and processes between teaching, learning and researching.
Masixole Booi
Masixole Booi is a lecturer at Rhodes University, Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning (CHERTL), he holds a BA (Hons) in Political Science from Nelson Mandela University, (MA) in International and Political Studies from Rhodes University. He is currently completing his PhD. His research interests includes Black Radical Tradition, apartheid spatial geographies, decolonial curricula, histories of knowledge-making in higher education institutions.
Ayanda Simayi
Ayanda Simayi (Dr) is a science lecturer in the Faculty of Education at Nelson Mandela University, specializing in teaching science using Indigenous Knowledge-based pedagogies and addressing language issues in science education. Her research interests include decolonized science education, qualitative participatory action research methodologies, taboo sexual concepts, and rural education. She has published and presented in various international conferences. In 2023, she presented at the ACUSAfrika conference at Ghana University, CERM-ESA conference at Moi University in Kenya and at Oldenburg University in Germany. In 2022, Ayanda was invited as a keynote speaker by the Centre for Humanities Research at University of Western Cape and the Faculty of Science at Mandela. She is a recipient of prestigious institutional awards, including the VC Leading Excellent Emerging Teacher Award in 2021, Faculty Emerging Teacher Award 2021, Faculty Teacher Award 2022 and a grant from the Teaching Development Fund.
Qhawe Plaatjie
Qhawe Plaatjie, a distinguished clinical psychologist, is the subject of this third-person biography. Driven by a passion for understanding and healing the human mind, Qhawe has established an impressive career in the field of psychology. As of the latest available information, Qhawe Plaatjie currently serves as a Psychologist at Emthonjeni Student Wellness. This role allows him to provide crucial support and guidance to students navigating the complexities of mental health in an academic environment. Prior to this, Qhawe held a significant position as a therapist within the South African National Defence Force, where his expertise in psychology was a vital resource for soldiers and their families in times of need. Qhawe's commitment to the field of psychology extends beyond his clinical work. He also contributes to the academic world as a research supervisor and lecturer at Varsity College, where he undoubtedly inspires and educates the next generation of psychologists. Furthermore, Qhawe's academic journey is marked by his dedication to personal growth and professional excellence, as he is concurrently pursuing a doctorate, a significant milestone in his ongoing quest for knowledge and advancement in the field. One of the defining features of Qhawe Plaatjie's career is his extensive experience in dealing with trauma, particularly through his work with soldiers and their families. In these demanding situations, Qhawe employed a wide range of therapeutic approaches, but the preferred methods revolve around Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy. These methodologies have proven to be invaluable tools in addressing trauma and guiding individuals toward recovery and resilience. In summary, Qhawe Plaatjie is a dedicated and accomplished clinical psychologist, who combines clinical practice, academic instruction, and an unwavering commitment to understanding and healing the human psyche. His profound experience in trauma therapy and expertise in CBT and psychodynamic therapy make him a respected figure in the field of psychology, a testament to his enduring dedication and contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities.
Osabuohusien Clifford Uwuoruya
Osabuohien Clifford Uwuoruya is a PhD candidate in the Sociology Department at Nelson Mandela University. He also works as a strategic resource mobiliser at the Engagement Office within the Engagement and Transformation Portfolio of the University. Clifford also provides scholarly and programmatic assistance across various projects within the Engagement Office's Hubs of Convergence, particularly in Hub 5 (Knowledge Communication and Application). Clifford has previously worked as a lecturer in the Sociology Department. His research interests intersect across African sociological theories with a focus on understanding social change, endogeneity, vernacularity, and the postcolonial experience; Indigenous Knowledge Systems with a focus on Yoruba Ifa ontologies and epistemes; and African intellectuals' studies with a particular focus on Fela Anikulapo Kuti theorisation as an intellectual.
Bongeka Makabeni
My journey into conservation photography was indeed a fortuitous turn of events, but it has grown into a purposeful and deeply meaningful endeavor. As I reflect on my six years as a conservation photographer, I'm reminded of the powerful and transformative role visual storytelling plays in communicating the urgency of conservation issues. It's a space where my artistic expression meets my passion for the environment. This project, which I completed as part of my Bachelor of Visual Arts Honors, represents a pivotal point in my career. It allowed me to delve into a subject that is not only close to my heart but also carries broader societal implications. The underrepresentation of people of color, particularly black women, in conservation narratives is a poignant issue, and through my photography, I aim to challenge and change this narrative. As I move forward, my mission remains clear: to continue telling visual stories that celebrate the diversity of perspectives within the conservation landscape. I'm committed to shedding light on the unique connections and stories of people of color and their relationship with the natural world. Through my work, I hope to inspire change, foster greater inclusivity, and contribute to a more holistic and representative understanding of conservation in South Africa and beyond.
Logamurthie Athiemoolam
Logamurthie Athiemoolam is Professor in the Faculty of Education at the Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, where he prepares pre-service teachers to teach English at home and first additional language levels and presents modules focusing on issues in education and language across the curriculum. His fields of research are language teaching and learning, education, drama-in-education and diversity pedagogy. He has presented over 30 papers both nationally and internationally, supervised numerous masters and doctoral students in the fields of education and language teaching, delivered many workshops in drama and theatre-in-education, and has published numerous articles and book chapters in his research areas.
African Knowledge Production Incubators Project
The African Knowledge Production Incubators (AKPI) project was born of a desire to take action. Hence, based on the Participatory Action Learning Action Research (PALAR) approach the AKPI project is based on a collective co creation of African lived experiences from six social work academics across five South African Universities viz. Nevashnee Perumal and Veonna Goliath (Nelson Mandela University), Motlaelepule Nathane (University of the Witwatersrand) , Priscalia Khosa (Stellenbosch University), Thanduxolo Nomngcoyiya (University of Fort Hare) and Mbongeni Sithole (University of Kwazulu Natal). Based on the methodology, all of us are researchers as well as participants in this project.
Dumisani Booysen
Chairperson: Black Lawyers Association Student Chapter NMU. 3rd year LLB Student; Faculty of Law.
Mmakgosi Tlhabadira
Public Relations Officer: Black Lawyers Association Student Chapter NMU. 3rd year LLB student; Faculty of Law.
Luzuko Mbumbulwana
MSc Chemistry Candidate. Chairperson of Science Students society in 2024. Former student leader in the SRC Transformation office and house committee Treasurer at Ikamva residence.
Abdul-Aleem Yusuff
At just 18 years old, Aleem embodies a remarkable blend of academic prowess and unwavering determination. Currently advancing into his third year of Industrial Engineering studies, he is defined by his ethos of resilience-never faltering in the face of challenges, always rising when he falls. Beyond the rigors of engineering, Aleem is a beacon of creativity and an insatiable hunger for knowledge. His ability to think outside the box and his deep curiosity propel him to constantly seek new horizons of understanding. he seeks to cultivate an even more profound interest in African history, a passion that fuels his commitment to illuminating often overlooked narratives. This dedication to shedding light on historical truths, alongside his tenacity and thirst for learning, marks Aleem as a young scholar poised to leave an indelible mark on both the fields of Industrial Engineering and historical discourse.
Bhekithemba R. Mngomezulu
Professor Bheki R. Mngomezulu is a Full Professor of Political Science and International Relations and Director of the Centre for the Advancement of Non-Racialism and Democracy (CANRAD) at Nelson Mandela University. He holds seven academic degrees in Political Science, History and Education, plus a Senior Secondary Teachers Diploma (SSTD). These qualifications include a junior degree, 2 Honours degrees, 3 Master’s degrees and a PhD. Five were obtained at three South African universities and two at Rice University in Texas, United States of America (USA). Prof. Mngomezulu has published six books, eighteen book chapters, and several articles in national and international journals. He has presented around 200 academic papers at national and international gatherings. He was a Visiting Professor at a university in Romania and was also a Visiting Professor at another university in Sweden. In 2023, Prof. Mngomezulu was invited to deliver a Keynote Address at Curtin University in Perth, Australia during the UN Nelson Mandela Day event. Previously, he was appointed by three Ministers of Sport, Arts & Culture to serve in the Nelson Mandela Museum Council until 2022. Prof. Mngomezulu is also a political analyst for national and international media houses including radio, television, and newspapers. His research interests include higher education, international relations, African comparative politics, and traditional leadership.
Lisakhanya Daniels
Lisakhanya Daniels is a senior Development Studies student. Her leadership capabilities, people-centric nature and compassion have awarded her the opportunity to be elected into Nelson Mandela University's Student Representative Council as the faculty representative of Business and Economic Sciences. Lisakhanya is passionate about education as she believes education challenges socioeconomic inequalities and brings about social mobility. As a result, she spends most of her free time as a student teacher in under-resourced quintile 1, 2 and 3 schools in Zwide. Furthermore, Ms Daniels has worked as a tutor and assistant lecturer for the Economics and Development Studies deprtment for over five modules. Her love for student activism led to her co-founding the Development Studies Society. Lisakhanya is also a Golden Key International Honours Society member.
Sisipho Patesi
Sisipho Patesi is a dedicated leader currently holding the position of Deputy President within the Student Representative Council (SRC) at NMU. With a track record of exemplary service and commitment to student welfare, she has continually risen through the ranks of student leadership.
In 2022, Sisipho demonstrated her leadership skills as the Treasurer of the 2nd Avenue Campus LSRC. During her tenure, she implemented strategic financial management practices and ensured transparent handling of student funds within her campus. The EFFSC at NMU recognized the urgent need for addressing gender-based violence (GBV) on campus, Sisipho took on the role of Head of Desk at the EFFSC NMU GBV Helpdesk in 2023. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in providing support, advocacy, and resources for survivors of GBV, advocating for a safer and more inclusive campus environment with the assistance of the Transformation Office. Currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Public Management and Administration, Sisipho continues to deepen her understanding of governance, policy-making, and public service delivery. Her academic pursuits align seamlessly with her passion for advocating for student rights and fostering positive change within the university community. With her unwavering dedication, proven leadership abilities, and commitment to social justice, Sisipho Patesi exemplifies the values of student leadership and continues to make a meaningful impact within the NMU community and beyond.
Yiva Makrwede
Yiva Makrwede is a dynamic and passionate leader who has dedicated himself to student activism and advocacy. With a strong commitment to social justice and equality, he has emerged as a prominent figure in the student movement at Nelson Mandela University (NMU). As the former Chairperson of the Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFSC) at NMU, Yiva demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a steadfast dedication to representing the interests of his fellow students. During his tenure, he led numerous initiatives aimed at addressing issues of student welfare, academic freedom, and institutional transformation. With a vision for positive change and empowerment, Yiva successfully served as the Chairperson of EFFSC for two years, leaving a lasting impact on the student community at NMU. His leadership was characterized by inclusivity, activism, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Currently, Yiva holds the esteemed position of Student Representative Council (SRC) President at NMU, where he continues to champion the rights and interests of students. In this role, he works tirelessly to ensure that student voices are heard and that their concerns are addressed by university authorities. Yiva is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree, with a focus on Politics and History. His academic pursuits complement his activism, providing him with a deeper understanding of the social, political, and historical contexts that shape contemporary issues. With a combination of academic excellence and grassroots activism, Yiva Makrwede embodies the spirit of student leadership and civic engagement. He remains steadfast in his commitment to creating a more just and equitable society, both within the university community and beyond.
Lindi Coetzee
Lindi Coetzee is the deputy dean and a senior lecturer at the Law Faculty of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. She holds the degrees B Juris LLB LLM and is an admitted advocate of the High Court. She specializes in Corporate Law, Insolvency and Human Rights. She has published research outputs and research manuals on corporate law, insolvency law and human rights and has delivered conference papers at both national and international conferences. She is a director of Street Law. Street Law is a non-profit company that specialise in presenting participatory legal- human rights and democracy education to the general public. Street Law South Africa is a prominent democracy, human rights, and legal education programme for all South Africans. It is designed to introduce the law and human rights to people of all levels of education. It provides a practical understanding of the law, the legal system, the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. Also included in the program are training on international standards of democracy, how a democratic government works, how human rights support democracy, checking the abuse of power, and promoting active citizen participation. Lindi represented the Human Rights Commission on NSB 09 (National Standards Body) for Health Sciences and Social Services (Structure created in terms of the National Qualifications Framework). She was the deputy chairperson of the NSB09 executive committee and chairperson NSB sub-committee for qualifications and unit standards. She was a member of the Child Justice Reference team of the Department of Justice that advises on the implementation of the Child Justice Act. She has been actively involved in the development of participatory training materials. She was involved in a national project that trained members of SADTU on the implementation of provisions of the South African Schools Act. Lindi was the female representative for Africa on the Steering Committee for the Global Access to Justice Alliance in 2009 and 2010. During 2009 she was appointed by the United Nations Office for Human Rights in Geneva to conduct an impact assessment of Human rights Programs funded through the United Nations Assisting Communities together in 43 different countries. Lindi was the lead trainer for the Commonwealth Legal Education Association, the Commonwealth Human Rights Institute and the Commonwealth Foundation in Human Rights Capacity building projects in British Overseas Territories.
Lucy Vosloo
Lecturer at the Department of Architectural Technology and Interior Design at Nelson Mandela University. I have had the privilege to be part of the working group led by Associate Professor Magda Minguzzi since 2016 under the umbrella of the School of Architecture, together with Khoena and San Chiefs, community members and students. Documenting the Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in the built environment within the working group has fostered an inclusive space where diverse perspectives are valued, and wisdom is honoured. The approach not only enriches the built environment but also contributes to promoting greater social and environmental justice.
Ané Meyer
Ané Meyer is a Masters in Architecture (Prof) student at Nelson Mandela University. Her treatise is based on the urban vernacular techniques of the South African self-built settlements looking at ways these construction systems can be improved to contribute to the general well-being of these marginalized communities. In 2023 she was acknowledged as the best student over all three years of her undergraduate studies, rewarded with the Milde McWilliams Bursary for these achievements. She was also one of the top 10 finalists for the PG Bison student competition in her third year of studies.