Bio

Ronald M. Bafana is a PhD scholar in Sociology at the University of Pretoria. His interdisciplinary academic journey spans Development Studies, Environmental Science, and Education. He holds a Master’s degree in Development Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where his research explored the socio-economic impacts of protected areas on local communities. Ronald has lectured on Political Ecology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and contributed as a Research Assistant on a UNICEF-funded project at the Centre for Rural Health.

His professional experience includes environmental program coordination, youth empowerment, and civil society engagement. Ronald’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainable development, environmental justice, and community resilience. In addition to his academic work, Ronald is also a passionate creative. He produces visual and conceptual art part-time through Afro-Life Art, a platform that celebrates African artists and connects them to the market.

He brings to the fellowship a strong background in participatory research, program implementation, and academic mentorship, anchored by a deep commitment to advancing socially engaged scholarship on the African continent.