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Wadzanai Mafunga
Wadzanai joined CSF in 2024 as an Environmental Economist. She is a results-driven professional who is passionate about sustainable development particularly where economic development intersects with environmental sustainability. She has applied economic principles to address industry challenges, predominantly within the South African sugar industry. Her tenure as a Post-Doctoral researcher at University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa enabled her to engage with various stakeholders and contribute to key discussions aimed at influencing policy in line with sustainable development goals. She has lectured various modules including Environmental Sustainability at the Durban University of Technology which ignited a passion to pursue a career in conservation economics. Her research, teaching, and industry involvement have fostered her professional growth, enabling her to thrive in dynamic environments where diverse perspectives converge. Collaborating with individuals from various fields has enhanced her adaptability and reinforced her belief in the power of collective problem-solving, which is essential in the conservation arena. She holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from UKZN, a Masters in Business Administration, and a Masters in Bioresources Systems, qualifications that make her versatile and equip her to engage in transdisciplinary work. Outside of her professional life, Wadzanai enjoys hiking and spending quality time with her husband and three daughters. She also takes pleasure in encouraging others to realize their full potential.