What motivated you to join Tshikovha Green and Climate Change Advocates?

I wanted to gain practical experience in the environmental sector to close gaps in my skillset. Tshikovha Green and Climate Advocates is well known for equipping interns with real-world exposure. Hence, I applied to the organizations.

How did your academic background prepare you for your current role at the organization?

The majority of my Masters emphasized report writing, independent research, data collection and synthesis. When drafting Basic Assessments and EMPr’s one needs to make sure that they conduct research and synthesis the correct legislation applicable.

Can you describe a recent project you have worked on here that you found particularly interesting or challenging?

I was recently tasked with revising a BAR from a consultation organization. In the BAR there was a lot of missing information and inconsistencies. Therefore, I found extremely challenging to revise the entire document as it felt as though I was absorbing to much information at once.

What unique skills or perspectives do you bring to the team at Tshikovha?

I believe that I am able to effectively synthesize data from various sources, transforming them from complex information into clear, comprehensive reports. This ability to communicate dense, and intricate information ensures that insights are not only accurate but also accessible to stakeholders

How do you see your role impacting the organization’s mission of advocating for climate change?

I feel that my role may allow the organisation to have an increased understanding of climate change its environmental and social effects and how to mitigate it, because I emphasise a holistic perspective in perspective in understanding environmental impacts.

What key learning experience have you had since joining Tshikovha Green and Climate Change Advocates?

I have had the opportunity of seeing the level of environmental degradation that is caused by projects that do not adhere to legislation. This learning experience has strengthened my resole to learn as much about environmental legislation as possible to ensure that I cause as little harm as possible.

How do you balance the theoretical knowledge from your studies with the practical demands of your job?

I make sure to first conduct independent research, then I ask for more inputs from those more experienced than me.

Have you encountered any unexpected challenges in your role? How did you address them?

Yes. I had difficulty digesting the large volume of information about projects and legalisation that I was receiving from the team. I am actively addressing this problem by focusing on specific legislation and projects first before expanding/moving to the next one.

What are your long-term career goals, and how does your position here align with those ambitions?

My goals are to transition either to the mining and SHEQ sectors. My experience at Tshikovha is integral as it helps me to fine tune my knowledge on the environment the legislation that govern it. For instance, currently, I am currently under the mining department this experience I helping me learn about the relevant legislations used in the inning sector.

How do you stay updated with the latest developments in environmental policy and climate change advocacy?

I listen to a number of environmental podcasts i.e., TED Climate and Harvard Environmental Economists every Monday and Thursday morning when I head to work. I also attend classes for short environmental courses.