Ms Nadia Mukadam

Ms Nadia Mukadam

Research Assistant

 

Nadia Mukadam is a research assistant in the Engagement and Transformation Portfolio. She completed a B Com Marketing and Communications degree from the University of Pretoria, with specialisation in Business Management.  She also holds a BA Honours in Applied Language Studies (Cum Laude) from Nelson Mandela University. Her thesis focused on language usage in the creation and perception of brand identity.

Previous experience includes research and media assistance on the Humanising Pedagogy project and in the Teaching and Learning department at the International Online University. Research interests include critical language studies, branding, identity, sociolinguistics, and critical pedagogy.

 

Getting to know me

 

  1. How would you define your role within the Engagement and Transformation team?

Providing research support where needed and assisting with social media and administrative tasks.

 

  1. What does Engagement and Transformation in Higher Education look like to you?

A space where ALL people are enabled and empowered to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of those around them. A system and curriculum that is inclusive of all knowledges and ways of being, and reflective of the social realities in which they exist. Transformation cannot be achieved or measured in isolation; thus, multilateral engagement and partnerships are imperative. Engaging in critical discourse around transformation should be continuous – there can be no real action nor change without continuous reflection, analysis, and intent.

 

  1. Describe your job in 3 words.

Interesting, challenging, humbling.

 

  1. What is your favourite activity when you are not in the office?

Pretty much any activity involving food!

 

  1. What is your favourite place on Earth?

Where my favourite people are.

 

  1. What is your favourite quote?

“I know not what the future holds but I know who holds the future”

 

  1. If you could change something in the world, what would it be?

Prejudice and oppression of any kind

 

  1. What would you be able to give a 30-minute presentation about without any advanced preparation?

Language and perception in branding.

 

  1. What is the best piece of professional advice you have ever received?

The best work ethic is kindness. Embrace failure – it is a gift in your path to success.


 

  1. What motivates you?

The sense of pride and achievement after completing a difficult task or solving a complex problem. Research makes you realise that the more you learn, the more you find there is to learn. I love that, and that ‘click’ when things fall into place or come into focus is super motivating.

 

Nadia Mukadam CV