Mamelang Memela

Mamelang (she/her) is a Sustainable Energy PhD student in the School of Sustainability from Johannesburg, South Africa. Her academic interests lie within the realm of of energy transitions, with an emphasis on the Global South. She is particularly curious about the intersection of renewable energy development, environmental justice, climate policy and the the technological innovations and social dynamics that are integral to the process of decarbonization.

Following the completion of her undergraduate degree in Environemntal Studies in Oregon, she ventured into practical applications of her knowledge through active involvement in various climate advocacy campaigns and initiatives. These campaigns and initiatives spanned various layers of governance across the US, offering her a rich perspective on the intricacies of climate-related policy formulation and implementation. Central to her involvement was a focus on the synthesis of community engagement and environmental justice within the broader context of climate change mitigation and adaptation, particularly concerning water and energy issues.

Her role in these campaigns and initiatives was not just limited to policy advocacy, she also has experience in climate communications and public relations which have equipped her with the skills to navigate and convey complex environmental issues, bridging the gap between technical jargon and public understanding. Through this experience, she has refined her ability to engage diverse audiences to foster a more inclusive and informed dialogue around environmental sustainability and policy for communities.