Bonelwa Nogqaza
Mtata
Summary
As a dedicated and enthusiastic researcher, I bring a dynamic blend of expertise in Sociology, Anthropology, and Heritage Studies to. With a strong passion for interdisciplinary inquiry, I engage in critical explorations of pressing issues, from social inequalities and cultural heritage to identity and social justice. My experience as a researcher, teaching assistant, and tutor has equipped me with effective strategies for research design, data analysis, and knowledge dissemination. I've shared my research insights through publications in reputable outlets such as African Arguments and the Women RISE Ukuvulisango International Project blog.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Project Manager
Walter Sisulu University
09.2025
- I worked as a project manager on an urbanization project hosted by Walter Sisulu University (WSU), focusing on mapping urbanization and its challenges in Mthatha. My responsibilities included overseeing fieldworkers, providing guidance, and ensuring the project's success.
- Extended Urbanization Project
Freelance Researcher
Mthente Research and Consulting Services
04.2025 - 06.2025
- As a freelance researcher, I occasionally supported Mthente's commissioned projects for various institutions and organizations. My tasks included:
- Conducting focus groups
- Individual interviews
- And surveys, depending on the client's research needs.
Researcher
Human Sciences Research Council
02.2023 - 09.2024
- I contributed to a comprehensive global health study from Canada (Women RISE project) examining the impact of Covid-19 on women in rural Eastern Cape communities and their resilience in rebuilding. As a researcher, I conducted ethnographic fieldwork in a designated village, engaging locals through:
- In-depth interviews, Community engagement dialogue
- Facilitated workshops
- Presented research findings to the Eastern Cape government (Office of the Premier)
- Co-authored policy briefs to inform local government initiatives
- Developed academic materials and presented at national conferences, including the ASNA conference
Teaching Assistant (Sociology)
University of the Western Cape
02.2022 - 11.2022
- As a teaching assistant, I supported the lecturer in delivering instruction to first-year students, facilitating understanding of complex concepts
- Evaluating student performance through script marking.
- Additionally, I contributed to the administrative aspects of the course, ensuring its smooth operation and organization
Project Research Assistant
Sol Plaatje University
02.2022 - 08.2022
- I served as a research assistant on a project examining the impact of philanthropy during the Covid-19 pandemic. My responsibilities encompassed:
- Conducting in-depth interviews with key stakeholders to gather data on philanthropic responses to the pandemic
Teaching Assistant (Sociology)
Sol Plaatje University
02.2021 - 11.2021
- I was selected as a teaching assistant for undergraduate sociology students, focusing on industrial sociology. My key responsibilities included:
- Teaching and leading instructional sessions
- Mentoring and guiding students throughout the course
- Marking and providing constructive feedback on assignments and exams
- Supporting students in achieving a deeper understanding of the subject matter
- This role allowed me to make a positive impact on students' academic journeys and foster a greater appreciation for sociology.
Teaching Assistant (Anthropology)
Sol Plaatje University
02.2020 - 11.2020
- As a teaching assistant, I supported the lecturer in delivering instruction to first-year students, facilitating understanding of complex concepts, and evaluating student performance through script marking.
Education
Master of Arts -
University of the Western Cape
01.2025
Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours - undefined
Sol Plaatje University
01.2022
Bachelor of Arts - undefined
Sol Plaatje University
01.2019
Skills
Project management
Data analysis
Research
Technical skills
References
Available upon request
Awards
2022: Chaired a session and presented a paper at the SASA conference., 2023: Presented a paper at the ASNA conference., Received a book award for one of the best papers, recognizing outstanding research and writing., Presented research at the WSU Research Day, sharing findings with an academic audience and engaging in scholarly discussion.
Community Service
- Community Advice Office, Volunteering, Mqanduli, 2020, Volunteered in administration and outreach activities, contributing to community development and support.
- The Nozizwe Foundation, Deputy Chairperson, Current, Serving as Deputy Chairperson, demonstrating leadership and commitment to the foundation's mission and objectives.
Publications
- Wrote a piece for African Arguments, please see on this link: Shared-Poverty-and-the-Curse-of-Unemployment-in-Rural-South-Africa.pdf (researchgate.net)
- Wrote multiple blogs for the Women RISE Ukuvulisango project, please see on this link: Women Rise Project | Ukuvula Isango | Women RISE IDRC
ACTIVITIES
Presented research at the WSU Research Day, sharing findings with an academic audience and engaging in scholarly discussion.
Timeline
Project Manager
Walter Sisulu University
09.2025
Freelance Researcher
Mthente Research and Consulting Services
04.2025 - 06.2025
Researcher
Human Sciences Research Council
02.2023 - 09.2024
Teaching Assistant (Sociology)
University of the Western Cape
02.2022 - 11.2022
Project Research Assistant
Sol Plaatje University
02.2022 - 08.2022
Teaching Assistant (Sociology)
Sol Plaatje University
02.2021 - 11.2021
Teaching Assistant (Anthropology)
Sol Plaatje University
02.2020 - 11.2020
Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours - undefined
Sol Plaatje University
Bachelor of Arts - undefined
Sol Plaatje University
Master of Arts -
University of the Western Cape
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