Ayanda Mahanjana

I possess multiple professional certifications, including the Nyukela Certificate for Senior Management Service pre-entry, reflecting my commitment to continuous professional development and leadership readiness. Additionally, I hold a SAQA recognized certification in Apply Labour Dispute Prevention Approaches (NQF Level 6, US ID 337082), further strengthening my expertise in workplace relations and conflict management. Currently, I am advancing my qualifications through the Project Management Programme (Postgraduate Diploma) at Stellenbosch University, enhancing my ability to lead complex projects with strategic oversight and operational excellence. My proven expertise encompasses managing complex, data-driven initiatives such as leading the data rescue project for critical wind data and serving as Secretariat for the Marine and Coastal Information Management System (MIMS). I am skilled in policy development, implementation monitoring, and stakeholder engagement, with a demonstrated ability to streamline data processes, improve data integrity, and support evidence-based decision-making. As a proactive leader with supervisory experience, I excel in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, facilitating workshops, and ensuring compliance with administrative and legislative standards. I am deeply committed to advancing ocean and coastal research through effective data management and innovative GIS applications.

• Over a decade of experience implementing and managing national environmental programmes, including Working for Water and Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
• Secretariat for the Marine Information Management Systems (MIMS), leading policy alignment and project information management
• Key contributor to the operationalization of OCIMS, enhancing national capacity for marine and coastal resource management
• Extensive engagement with diverse stakeholders, ensuring project alignment with national and international conservation targets