Media type: Op-ed
Publisher: Eyewitness News
Title: The Rise of Political Celebrities and the Appeal of the Lowest Common Denominator
Author: : Malaika Mahlatsi
Date: : 10 October 2025
Link: https://www.ewn.co.za/2025/10/10/malaika-mahlatsi-the-rise-of-political-celebrities-and-the-appeal-of-the-lowest-common-denominator
Image courtesy of: GovernmentZA
Dr Njabulo Mbanda is a Research Associate at The Institute for Pan-Africa Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She is a Deputy Dean of Research at the Independent Institute of Education (IIE). She has over 15 years of experience in the coordination of research projects focused on health systems strengthening, HIV prevention, care, and treatment. Her research interests which are public health and wellness are reflected in her publications in reputable journals, books, magazines and newspapers. Her book titled, “Improving health literacy for people with low literacy: an analysis of a South African HIV health education programme” is based on her own PhD in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) completed at the University of Pretoria. Mbanda’s professional background training includes a Bachelor of Social Science Honours degree in Psychology and a Masters in Early Childhood Intervention (MECI). Having being part of the team that established the Public Health and Wellbeing research unit at IPACT, Dr Mbanda is also research fellow at the University of Johannesburg, under the Faculty of Humanities
Mr. Tshegofatso Manakane oversees General Support in Administration at The Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He is a third-year Development Studies student at the University of Johannesburg, majoring in Politics and Public Management and Governance. He works at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation. His research interests focus on bridging the gap between theory and practice in African academia, particularly how policies often overlook realities such as gender inclusion, age barriers, and historical inequalities. He is also actively involved in social impact and volunteer projects that promote inclusive development and community empowerment.
Ms Naledi Ramontja is a Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She obtained a Bachelor’s and an Honours degree in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies at UP. Her research interests include African political literacy, decolonisation, foreign policy, security studies and peacekeeping, and gender studies.
Ms. Vhonani Petla is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation. She holds a Master’s degree in Development Studies (specializing in Africa and the Caribbean), earned through a joint program between the University of Johannesburg and the University of the West Indies. She is currently a researcher at the National Movement of Rural Women. She has extensive experience in both academia and the NGO sector, with particular expertise in digital policy, social media, sustainable development, and contemporary South African politics. She has authored numerous journal articles, book chapters, op-eds, and, most recently, a policy brief.
Dr Kudzaiishe Vanyoro is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He holds a PhD in Critical Diversity Studies from the University of the Witwatersrand. Dr Vanyoro’s research interests are critical diversity studies, media and cultural studies, critical theory, and gender and sexuality studies. His publications have earned him awards from the University of the Witwatersrand Faculty of Humanities (2023), the South African Sociological Association (SASA) (2022) and the Queer African Studies Association (QASA) (2021).
Dr. Mohamed Farah Hersi is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg and serves as the Executive Director of the Academy for Peace and Development in Somaliland. With 13 years of experience in research, policy development, and project management in conflict-affected countries in the Horn of Africa, he has authored several publications, including “State Fragility in Somaliland and Somalia” (2018) and “Confronting the Future of Somaliland’s Democracy” (2015). Dr. Hersi holds a PhD in Governance and Development from the University for Peace in Costa Rica, an LLM from the University of Pretoria, and an LLB from the University of Hargeisa.
Ambassador Jerry Matjila is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. He has served as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations in New York. His distinguished career in the diplomatic service includes holding senior positions, such as Director-General of the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). Additionally, Ambassador Matjila was the Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva from 2010 to 2011, during which time he also served as Consul-General for the French-speaking cantons of Switzerland. From 2001 to 2006, he was the South African Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Community.
Ms. Akira Modise is a Research Assistant at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation, which operates under the T20 South Africa and the C20 Dynamic. She is also a PhD candidate in the Department of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg. As a scholar in Gender Studies, Ms. Modise’s research interests include feminism, philosophy, diplomacy, public policy, and women’s peace and security. Her work primarily focuses on Black feminist thought and the political, physical, and economic security of women in post-apartheid South Africa.
Professor Sophia Price is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. She currently serves as the Head of the School of Social Sciences at Birkbeck College and is a Professor of International Political Economy at Leeds Beckett University. Previously, from 2016 to 2024, she was the Head of Politics and International Relations at Leeds Beckett University, where she played a key role in strategic planning, curriculum development, research advancement, and faculty mentorship. In 2018, she co-edited the book “Sustainable Development in Africa-EU Relations,” published by Routledge, and has contributed chapters to several co-edited volumes, including Routledge’s “Handbook of Critical European Studies,” “Handbook of EU-Africa Relations,” and “Handbook on International Trade Agreements.”
Additionally, she is the Co-Editor of the Lynne Rienner book series “Advances in International Political Economy” and serves as the convenor of the University Association of Contemporary European Studies (UACES) Network of EU-Africa Research (NEAR).
Prof Alex Nunn is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. He currently serves as the Dean of Research and is a Professor of Global Political Economy and Social Policy at Leeds Trinity University. Previously, he held the position of Director of the Social, Cultural, and Legal Research Centre at the University of Derby. As the former Head of School at the University of Derby, he was responsible for ensuring teaching quality, student recruitment, and student outcomes. Professor Nunn also leads research training initiatives for early career researchers (ECRs) and postgraduate researchers (PGRs) in West and Southern Africa. This work is supported by a British Academy-funded project in collaboration with the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies in Nigeria and the University of Johannesburg. Additionally, he is actively involved in academic publishing, serving on the Editorial Board of the journal Capital and Class and coordinating a book series for Lynne Rienner Publishers.
Ms. Zanele Ratsoga is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. She currently serves as a Product Manager at Massmart. With over eight years of experience in digital fraud detection and prevention, she is also a Certified Fraud Examiner. Before this, she worked in the banking sector for more than twelve years. In 2023, she published an article titled “Factors Influencing Post-Hackathon Project Continuation in an African Corporate Setting.” Ms. Ratsoga holds a master’s degree in digital business from the Wits Business School.
Ms. Nontobeko Hlela is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. Currently, she is a researcher seconded to the Office of the National Security Advisor in the Presidency. In addition to her research role, Ms. Hlela is a diplomat with extensive experience in East and West Africa. She previously worked as a Superintendent of Security at BHP Billiton and has also served as a lecturer at the University of Durban-Westville. Ms. Hlela holds a Master of Arts degree in Political Science and International Relations from the University of Natal. Furthermore, she is a member of the Network of African Women in Conflict Prevention and Mediation.
Ms. Nolwandle Made is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. Previously, she worked at Stellenbosch University in the Centre for Social Justice, where she conducted research on the use of disaggregated data to create impact-conscious policies aimed at reducing inequalities. Additionally, she collaborated with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) as a consultant for a Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) project titled “Nutrition Smart Agriculture and Water Productivity” in four African countries. Before this, she worked in community development for the Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation in KwaZulu-Natal. Ms. Made holds a Master of Science degree in Rural Development and Natural Resources Management from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU).
Mr. Orapeleng Daniel Matshediso is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. He currently serves as an Executive Board Member at Timia-Africa and as a Public Relations Officer at the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality. Mr. Matshediso earned his master’s degree in Pan-African Development Studies from the University of Johannesburg in collaboration with the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. He contributed a chapter to the book *Chasing Freedom: Histories, Analyses, and Voices of Student Activism in South Africa* (2022), published by CODESRIA, demonstrating his dedication to scholarly discourse and knowledge production.
Dr. Zainab Monisola Olaitan is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. She currently serves as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Litigation and Implementation unit at the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria. Additionally, Dr. Olaitan is the administrator of the Association of Human Rights Institutes (AHRI) Secretariat, which is hosted at the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria. Dr. Olaitan completed her PhD in Political Science at the University of Pretoria, where her research focused on the impact of gender quotas on the substantive representation of women in African politics. She is the author of the book “Women’s Representation in African Politics: Beyond Numbers,” which is set to be published by Palgrave in 2024. In 2022, she was awarded the Margaret McNamara Education Grant (MMEG) for her impactful research on women.
Dr. Gwinyai Dzinesa is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. He is also affiliated with the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation in Cape Town. Previously, he served as a Senior Lecturer in International Relations and Diplomacy at Africa University in Zimbabwe. Dr. Dzinesa holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), as well as a Master’s degree in War and Strategic Studies and a BA Honours in History, both from the University of Zimbabwe.
Dr. Siviwe Mditshwa is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg. He serves as the Executive Director of Monitoring and Evaluation for the Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. Dr. Mditshwa holds a PhD in Public Administration and Management from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He also has a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and a Bachelor of Administration degree in Business Management and Public Administration from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Additionally, he has completed short courses on Strategic Executive Growth at the University of Cape Town. Dr. Mditshwa is an active member of the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) and the South African Monitoring and Evaluation Association (SAMEA).
Dr. Nompumelelo Motlafi Francis ((formerly known as Motlafi) is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in the Global Excellence and Stature (GES) 4.0 for Societal Impact program at the University of Johannesburg. She is hosted by the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). Dr. Motlafi holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Pretoria, as well as a Master of Social Science and a Bachelor of Social Science degree in International Relations from the University of Cape Town. She has lectured on African Politics in the Department of Political Sciences at the University of South Africa for eight years. Dr. Motlafi’s research focuses on topics such as decolonial feminist thought, political identity and genocide, rape law reform, transitional justice, research ethics, and epistemic justice, all within the framework of Feminist Peace and Conflict Studies.
Dr. Mbuyisi Mgibisa is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC) at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. Previously, he served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Multimedia within the Faculty of Art, Design, and Architecture (FADA) at the same university. He earned his PhD in 2023 in the field of Media Studies from the University of the Witwatersrand. His doctoral research received numerous awards and accolades, including the Refaat Alareer Memorial Prize for PhD Research Excellence (2023). Dr. Mgibisa’s research focuses on the intersection of media and decolonization, with particular emphasis on Black Consciousness, African philosophy, decolonial thought, and intersectional Black feminism. Currently, he is especially interested in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how everyday design-led thinking can contribute to addressing the complex contemporary problems we face today.
Dr. Adeoye O. Akinola is the Program Leader for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He obtained a doctorate in Political Science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa. He was a Lecturer at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Nigeria; a Post-Doctoral Fellow at UKZN and the University of Zululand; and a Visiting Professor at the United Nations University for Peace (UPEACE) in Addis Ababa. He is the author of the book, Globalization, Democracy and Oil Sector Reform in Nigeria; co-author of Boko Haram’s Terrorism and the Nigerian State; and editor and co-editor respectively of The Political Economy of Xenophobia in Africa, and The Trajectory of Land Reform in Post-Colonial African States. Dr. Akinola has published about 40 articles in accredited journals. He specializes in globalization, African political economy, development studies, resource governance, conflict and peace studies.
Ms. Nompumelelo Ndawonde is a Project Coordinator at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She is currently a PhD student at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in South Africa. She obtained a Masters of Political Science, a Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations (cum laude), and a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (cum laude), all from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa. Ms. Ndawonde was awarded academic exchange scholarships for studies at the University of Calgary in Canada, and the University of Uppsala in Sweden. Her key research interests include regional organisations, trade, and development.
Dr. Erica Sheffield is Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation, a dynamic educator, international speaker, and CEO of Anchored 2 Teach, LLC, dedicated to inclusive education and school sustainability. As COO of Mending TV International, she spearheads initiatives that empower communities through education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship. With over 27 years in education, she has served as an ADA Compliance Coordinator and an Online Professor at the University of West Alabama.
Her research and speaking engagements focus on gender justice, teacher inclusivity, leadership development, and educational equity. She has presented globally, impacting audiences in South Africa, France, Spain, Italy, and Dubai.
Dr. Sheffield has authored works on empowerment, education, and mentorship, contributing to academic publications and leadership training materials. Her passion lies in bridging cultural gaps, fostering global change, and uplifting future educators and leaders.
Ms. Hontse Molefe currently serve as a Research Assistant at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She has a solid background in administration and research processes at a Higher Education Institution. Her operational experience enriched her understanding of management dynamics within senior academic settings enabling her to effectively support senior management in maintaining a conducive learning environment. Her previous role as an administrative assistant fortified her analytical skills, making her well-equipped to facilitate Post Doctoral Research Fellow funding processes. She holds a Bachelor of Social Science Degree from the University of KwaZulu Natal.
Ms Phelisa Nkomo is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation and a development economist, gender equity & inclusion expert, seasoned social scientist with extensive experience on ESG. Ms Nkomo is a former Economic Advisor at the Department of Public Enterprise and Economic Development respectively. Ms Nkomo has been part of thought leadership on Macro-Economic Transformation & Inclusion, Africa Industrial Agenda and Gender Equity globally. She has held various portfolios throughout her professional career, spanning from being an economic advisor, public policy advocacy work, legislative development, public-private sector collaboration, grant -making. She is a co-founder of Women’s Economic Assembly (WECONA) an advocacy organisation for value chain participation of women owned businesses and Gender Based Violence and Femicide Response Fund. She has recently been admitted as Research Fellow at University of Johannesburg. She is also Co-Chair of Pillar 5 on Economic Power, Board Chairperson of OXFAM, as well as LeanIn Equity & Sustainability Southern Africa Leadership Collective.
Dr Mbulaheni Mulaudzi is a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Pan African Thought and Conversations at the University of Johannesburg. The Former Research Associate at the SARChi: African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at the University of Johannesburg. Dr Mulaudzi hold a Doctoral Degree in Political Science from the University of Johannesburg. He is currently the Chief Director: Social Mobilisation and Community Empowerment at the Department of Social Development. He is an expert in policy formulation, research and formulation of strategies on community development. Dr Mbulaheni Mulaudzi area of interest revolves around international political economy, developmental state, state capacity and service delivery. Dr Mulaudzi has published in accredited Journals.
Dr Tinuade Adekunbi Ojo is a Senior Researcher and Head Pan African Women Studies Unit (PAWS) at the Institute of Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She holds a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Pretoria in South Africa. She obtained a Master’s and Honours degrees in Development Studies from the University of South Africa. She is a feminist political economist who explores the gendered dimension of trade, financial inclusion, digital transformation in policy, politics, and digitalisation. She specialises in international political economy, gender inequality, and poverty reduction strategies. She has several publications in accredited journals. Dr Ojo is currently the African Association of Political Science (AAPS) program officer and a recipient of the Global Stature Award at the University of Johannesburg.
Ms Hope Tshepiso Dhlamini is a Communications Intern at the Institute of Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She obtained Public Relations and Communication Management Diploma Qualification at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. She has a passion for Sustainable Development and Social Change since she was nominated for the 2021 Mail and Guardian 200 Young South Africans competition. Ms Dhlamini received a salutation award for Academic Excellence in 2020 and 2021 Faculty of Humanities Deans List and Top-Achievers awards, respectively.
Prof. Fredrick Ogenga is an Associate Professor of Media and Security Studies at Rongo University, and the Founding Director Center for Media, Democracy, Peace and Security at Rongo University. He is also The President and CEO of the Peacemakers Corps Foundation Kenya, a local NGO that is a member of the Alliance for Peacebuilding that uses technology to build peace, working with the youth. Ogenga is a 2014 Individual Research Fellow (IRF 2014), Africa Peacebuilding Network and 2016 Southern Voices Network for Peacebuilding Scholar (SVNP 2016), Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Washington DC. He is a former Visiting Research Fellow at the African Studies Center, Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies, Boston University, USA and Institute for Policy Research, University of Bath, UK. Ogenga is also a former Visiting Scholar at the Institute for the Advancement of Social Sciences (IASS), Boston University and the Boston University Sociology Department and a Post-doctoral Fellow at the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa. Ogenga is widely published in the area of media, peace and security. Currently, he is championing African Peace Journalism through a Pan-African institutional methodological and philosophical approach to media and peacebuilding in Africa anchored on the philosophies of Utu or humanity, Umoja or Unity and Harambee or collective responsibility captured in his latest edited book “Peace Journalism in East Africa- A Manual for Media Practitioners” published by Routledge. He has developed a new MSc and PhD program in Media and Security Studies at Rongo University through the Center for Media Democracy, Peace and Security. Ogenga is currently a Letsema Visiting Fellow at the Institute of Pan-Africa Thought and Conversation (IPATC) at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa and Academic Co-chair, East Africa Hub Joint Learning Initiative (JLI)
Wendy Nkosi currently is an MA candidate in Politics and International Relations and has research interests in Pan-Africanism and the African Peer Review Mechanism(APRM) focusing on the governance of African states. She is a research intern at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation and a project manager: bilateral relations at the South African BRICS Youth Association(SABYA). She recently published an op-ed. Titled “There are no women’s struggles but black women’s struggles”.
Ms Divine Keren Yamulamba is a research intern at the Institute of Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Sciences (cum laude), an Honor’s degree in International Relations and a Master’s degree in Diplomatic Studies from the University of Pretoria. To name a few, her research interests focus on international migration, peace and conflict within Sub-Saharan Africa and African Agency within BRICS and FOCAC.
Dr Seife Tadelle Kidane is a Senior Researcher Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He has held significant roles in the government, private, non-profit, international, and academic sectors for more than two decades. Seife has worked in the public sector as a senior government advisor for policy strategies and a public diplomat at the level of a chief commissioner. He served as the chief executive officer of Africa Technology Holdings in the private sector and taught at both private and public universities. He has contributed immensely to the Pan African Youth Movement (PYU), African Youth Peace Council (AYPC), World Federation Democratic Youth (WFDY), Africa Speaks, and Great Run Africa in the sector of non-state actors. He has also served in various capacities for the African Union and the UN ECOSOC. Expertise and research interests include African intergovernmental organisations; Regional Economic Communities (RECs). In addition, the development, analysis, and implementation of indigenous governance; and the theory, study and practice of African unity and institutional renewal.
Dr Tinashe Sithole is a Research Intern at the Institute for Pan-African thought and Conversation (IPATC). He is also a Visiting Research Fellow in the Department of Political Sciences and holds a PhD in Political Studies from the University of Johannesburg. Dr Sithole has widely published and his research interests focus on democracy, natural resource governance and International political economy- focusing on challenges of development for African states in the global world, elections, human security and peace and conflict.
Mr Masilo Lepuru is a Junior Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation. He has a BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) and an LLB (Law degree) from the University of Pretoria. He has also obtained an Honours degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of Johannesburg. Masilo is currently pursuing an MA in Development Studies at the University of Johannesburg in the Department of Politics and International Relations. His research interests include African philosophy, Jurisprudence, the Black Radical Tradition, African history, literature, South African history and politics.
Mr Dominic Maphaka is a Junior Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He holds an Honours degree in International Politics and is completing a Masters of the same degree at the University of Limpopo. His research focus is on BRICS, Africa-China relations, South Africa’s foreign policy and development policies. He has publications on BRICS, South Africa-China relations, paradiplomacy and development policies
Dr Koliswa Matebese-Notshulwana is a Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She obtained her doctorate from the University of Pretoria titled “A Critical Analysis of the Role and Function of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) in Promoting Accountability in South Africa’s Public Sector”; MPhil from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) and BA from University of Port Elizabeth (UPE). She is a gender-based-violence survivor and author of a memoir titled “I Kept on Crying”. Her research interests are in the areas of governance, legislative oversight, education, development, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Currently, Dr Koli is co-editing a book project titled “Doctoral Journeys in the Humanities and Social Sciences in South African Universities”, and is an external examiner for Masters and PhD Thesis as well as an Honours supervisor for the University of Pretoria.
Ms Reshika Dwarika comes with many years of knowledge of UJ policies and processes, and holds various qualifications from different Institutes: Certificate Executive Office Assistant, Certificate in life coaching, Basic Counselling Certificate and Tourism Management Diploma and still in progress with Bachelor of Business Administration Degree. She joined the Department of Sport and Movement Studies and is responsible for all administrative functions within the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation at the University of Johannesburg, since July 2022. Reshika looks forward to offering additional opportunities for personal and professional development.
Ms Selemo Nkwe is a Junior Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She obtained a MSc in International Development from the University of Bath (UK) under the Chevening Scholarship Programme. She also holds a Master’s in International Relations from the University of the Witwatersrand. Her research interests focus on: international migration, foreign aid, development management, sustainable development goals, policy analysis, critical diversity studies and institutional development.
Mr Blessing Mbalaka is a Junior Researcher at the Institute for Pan-Afrian Thought and Conversation. He holds an honours degree in Development Studies, and majored in Anthropology, Development Studies and Public Management and Governance at the University of Johannesburg. Additionally, Blessing is a current MA candidate in development studies, and has research interests in blockchain technology and AI. He is particularly interested in a critical outlook on the role and social impact these technologies can play in circumventing/causing social issues.
Ms Olerato Carol Manyaapelo is a Junior Researcher at the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC), South Africa. She is currently a Master’s candidate in Politics and International Relations at UJ, and a first-year student’s tutor for the Introduction of International Relations, International Political Economy and Development Studies at UJ. She worked as a Field Researcher and Field Supervisor for Social Surveys Africa for the Department of Education EGRP project in 2021. Her key research interests include public policy, youth development issues and local governance (governance)
Ms Kamogelo Segone is a Research Assistant at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She has completed her Master of Arts in Political Studies degree and obtained a BA Honours degree from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. She specializes in Pan-Africanism, decolonial thought, feminist theory, and modernity studies. Ms Segone has published several opinion editorials.
Malaika Wa Azania is a Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She holds a Master of Public Affairs at the University of Pretoria and another Master of Science in Urban Regional Planning at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. She obtained her undergraduate and Honours in Geography from Rhodes University in South Africa. She is a Pan-Africanist feminist and bestselling author of internationally acclaimed books and has published opinion editorials and book chapters. She has served on several continental structures such as the Secretary-General of the African Youth Coalition, and the youth representative of the SADC Food and Nutrition Security Committee. She also served in the SADC election observer mission in the harmonised elections in Zimbabwe in 2013.
Dr Chidochashe Nyere is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He holds a doctorate in International Relations at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. Dr Nyere holds a Master’s degree in International Politics at the University of South Africa, and completing another Master’s degree in Human Rights Law (LLM Multidisciplinary Human Rights) at the University of Pretoria. Dr Nyere is a certified English Language editor. His research interests are as follows: decolonial studies, international relations, African politics, academic literacies and human rights. He has several publications.
Ms. Hellen Adogo is a Research Assistant at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She obtained a Master of Political Science from the University of Johannesburg and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations from the University of Pretoria, South Africa. Her key research interests include Africa-China relations, African agency in international relations, and BRICS-Africa relations.
Dr Noluthando Phungula is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She obtained her doctorate from the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) in South Africa. She holds a Master’s in International Relations from UKZN. Dr Phungula’s research interests focus on conflict transformation and peace studies, China-South Africa relations, and governance in local government.
Dr Rich Mashimbye is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He holds a doctorate in International Relations from the University of Pretoria in South Africa. His research focuses on regional organisations, conflict resolution and intervention, sovereignty, norms, and security studies. Dr Mashimbye has published in several journal articles.
Odilile Ayodele is a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She holds a D.Litt. et Phil in Political Studies at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), and obtained her BA, BA (Hons), an MA in International Relations from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. She completed a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the South African Research Chair: African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at UJ. Odilile is currently the convenor of the South African Association of Political Studies (SAAPS) research committee on international relations and diplomacy, an associate editor and book review editor of the Journal of BRICS Studies, as well as the book review editor of the African Journal of Political Science. Her current research projects centre on Global Technopolitics including, the international relations of technology, and digital diplomacy in Africa.
Ms Lesego Motsage is a Student Assistant at the Institute of Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She is a BA Honours in Politics and International Relations student and completed her BA Social Sciences degree (cum laude) at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. Her research interests focus on women empowerment, the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), and artificial intelligence technologies in relation to women in Africa.
Mr. Vusimuzi Gumbi is a Research Assistant at the Institute of Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Politics at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and obtained his BA (Honours) in Politics and International Relations at UJ, with a distinction. His research interest in elections and political processes, and democracy and governance institutions were reinforced when he was deployed by the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) to Lesotho in 2017 and Mozambique in 2019, as part of the electoral team. In 2020, he won Season 8 of the South Africa’s Youth Leadership Reality Show, One Day Leader, hosted by the SABC. He has published many opinion editorials in several newspapers in South Africa.
Ms Nqophisa Diko is a Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She is a doctoral candidate in International Relations at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. She obtained her Master of Social Science degree from North-West University in South Africa. Ms Diko has a great interest in the political economy of developing countries, decoloniality of economic and political relations, and BRICS studies. She has several journal articles and opinion editorials.
Dr Hlengiwe Phetha is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). She holds a doctorate in International Relations and Political Science, from the University of Zululand in South Africa. Dr Phetha’s areas of interest are international relations, youth development, gender-based violence, corruption, and ICT. She has broadly published on peacekeeping and conflict resolution, South Africa’s foreign policy, and access to education and employment opportunities.
Dr Emmaculate Asige Liaga is a Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). Her research interests focus on the analysis of conflict and conflict resolution mechanisms and approaches, and peacebuilding in Africa. Dr Asige has worked as a researcher in several countries and has widely published in accredited journals.
Dr. Mabutho Shangase is a Researcher at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He also lectures in the Department of Politics and International Relations (UJ). He holds a Ph.D. in African Studies from the University of Edinburgh (UK). Dr Shangase has widely published and his research interests centre around the Post-Apartheid State, South African Public Policy, South African Political Economy, and Regional Integration.
Mr. Stephen Mashatola is a Research Coordinator at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation (IPATC). He holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Social Research and a Master’s degree in Social Impact Assessment and Public Participation, both from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in South Africa. Mr. Mashatola has diverse experience in media and library administration, and in the media newsroom and on its commercial side. He worked for the Times Media Group in Johannesburg for 12 years. He also has experience in media advocacy in the non-profit sector. His areas of research include Social Capital and Retrenchment.
Ms. Phumzile Ntuli is an Administrative Assistant at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation. She previously worked as an Administrative Assistant in various departments at the universities of Johannesburg and the Witwatersrand between 2002 and 2017. She completed her National Diploma in Office Management and Technology at the Tehcnikon Witwatersrand (now University of Johannesburg). She received Best Student of the Year awards in her class in 2000 and 2002.
Ms Tsitsidzashe Bvute is a Master’s Student in Religion Studies at the University of Johannesburg. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies, Classics, and Philosophy from the University of Zimbabwe, and a Special Honours degree in Religious Studies from the University of Zimbabwe. Her research interests include Religion, Migration, Political Economy, and Gender.
Ms Zoliswa Ntsoko (South Africa) is the Institute’s Administrative Assistant who assists with general administration and research. She is a seasoned professional with a background in Disaster Management. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Management from Milpark Business School, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Management from Regenesys Business School. She also holds certificates in Project Management, and in Disaster Management. Previously, she has worked as a Disaster Management Specialist at the City of Johannesburg – Disaster Management Centre.
Ms Cecilia Lwiindi Nedziwe-Moyo is the Research Coordinator at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation. She previously served as a Regional Coordinator at the Centre for Peace Initiatives in Africa (CPIA) in Zimbabwe between 2007 and 2013. She completed her master’s degree in International Studies, Peace, and Conflict Resolution at the University of Queensland in Australia as a Rotary Peace Scholar. She has just completed her doctoral studies at Rhodes University. Her areas of interest include: gender, foreign policy, regional organisations and conflict resolution.
Mr Nhluvuko Mark Nkonwana is a MA in Development Studies candidate at the University of Johannesburg. He holds a BA degree in Sports Development (2015) and a BA honours in Development Studies (2016), both obtained from the University of Johannesburg. His research interests include; Water Governance, Political Ecology, Human Rights, Rural Development, Political Economy, and Sport for Development.
Ms Gcinwemseni Hope Hadebe is the Institute’s Administrative Assistant with a wealth of experience in personal assistance, office administration, and management. She previously worked at Community Medical Scheme as an Executive Personal Assistant and Office Manager for eight years. She has a national diploma in Language Practice, as well as a Certificate in Office Administration.
Mr Zenzo Moyo is a Research Administrator at the Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation. He is an educationist with 15 years of work experience in this sector. He holds a Master’s degree in Development Studies from the University of Johannesburg. In 2014, he was awarded a Global Excellence and Stature (GES)scholarship by the University of Johannesburg to undertake a PhD in Development Studies, which he has just completed. His areas of research interest include: African Politics; Civil Society; Education; and Participatory Development.
David Moore is a Professor of Development Studies. He headed the University of Johannesburg’s Department of Anthropology and Development Studies for six of his nearly 10 years there. At present, he is spending his sabbatical as a Visiting Researcher at IPATC, where he is working on a book, tentatively entitled: From Comrades to Coups: Robert Mugabe, ZANU-PF, and their Zimbabwe. His PhD on the contradictions of constructing hegemony in Zimbabwe (1956-1980) is from York University in Toronto. He has continued his scholarly interest on Zimbabwe since 1984, when he began his doctoral fieldwork. David has edited and co-edited three books ranging from Zimbabwean Political history, and current affairs to development discourse and theory, as well as publishing over sixty academic articles, chapters, and popularly-oriented works.
Ms Thembeka Somtseu is a seasoned professional with a background in the textile and construction sectors. She holds a National Diploma in Business Administration from the Durban University of Technology, and studied Development Communication and Media Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand. She worked as a corporate communications specialist for more than ten years, serving in both local and multinational companies.
