Mx Keneilwe Natu

Mx Keneilwe Natu

Research Assistant

Keneilwe Natu is an aspiring historian, researcher, and writer. My academic journey began in 2018 when I enrolled for, and later graduated with, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & History. I furthered my studies, and now hold an honours degree in History. I currently work as an research assistant for the Research Chair for Critical Studies in Higher Education Transformation (CriSHET), within the Engagement and Transformation Portfolio at Nelson Mandela University. As an emerging scholar, I am in the process of carving out my place within the academic space, driven by my commitment to contribute to socially engaged research, decolonial practice, and transformative research and praxis. My academic journey is driven by a passion for uncovering silenced histories and amplifying marginalised voices; research that holds meaning! My research interests sit at the intersection of higher education transformation, decolonial thought, and creative resistance. I also have interests deeply rooted in the vast lands of the Northern Cape; where I enjoy exploring the rich and complex histories of small colonial towns of the Eastern Upper Karoo region of the province. I have a wide range of other interests, with a deep love for writing and performing poetry. I am an active member of the Bay Creative Writing Development Project (BCWDP), an initiative dedicated to uplifting disadvantaged communities in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, through the power of art and creative expression. I have served as a passionate student leader, and have since dedicated myself to activism committed to driving radical, impactful change in society. 

Getting to know me

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

I currently assist with two research projects (UWN & SRP) under the Engagement and Transformation Portfolio. My role involves data collection, reading and researching, and writing.

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

DISMANTLING exclusionary systems, completely! By first centring marginalised histories, decolonising the curricula, while CONSULTING ‘forgotten’ indigenous knowledges, and creating spaces where African voices, not only feature, but are actively included in crafting the future of Higher Education (HE). Transformation is not just reform, it is REIMAGINING.

3. Describe your job in 3 words.

Writing, reading, analysing.

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

It changes over time. Currently, it’s just sitting underneath my tree, watching TikTok, or playing with paint and a canvas, or performing poetry to myself. 

5. What is your favourite place on Earth?

Somewhere underneath a tree.

6. What is your favourite quote?

“I am deliberate, and afraid of absolutely nothing” – Audre Lorde

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

I would try to slow everything down. Nothing fancy, but I would do away with the dominance of capitalism in society and its tendencies.

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

A history of my hometown, Petrusville.

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

“Write, write, and write and never stop writing.”

“Use your 20s to boldly explore your passions, take risks!”

10. Who motivates you?

I am curious about the end! Stories waiting to be told; the belief that history isn’t static but a conversation that we’re all shaping. And my siblings keep me on my toes.