Grant Grabs Three. Ceres, Western Cape. Photo Credit: Erna Curry.

public Scholarship

Alongside research, I engage in public scholarship to ensure my findings contribute to building a more socially just world. I have published newspaper articles in GroundUp, co-wrote a documentary for Cutting Edge, and participated in litigation at the Constitutional Court. I have also advised numerous government agencies, including the South African Social Security Agency, Department of Social Development, the National Credit Regulator, the National Treasury, the South African Reserve Bank, and the National Payment System.

My work has led to several important real-world outcomes. I am very proud to have been part of the Black Sash's campaigns to bring grant payment under public (not private) control. We are currently working to diminish allowable interest rates on credit; enact basic income support; and protect personal information from predatory companies.

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Impact Projects

Digital Profiteers

Open Secrets and I investigated how social welfare delivery is being rapidly digitised due to Covid-19. We explored the future possibilities and pitfalls in the emerging Welfare Industrial Complex. We are using this research to advocate for the protection of people from data profiteering.

COvid-19 & Social Grants

The Black Sash, Wanga Zembe (Medical Research Council), Engenas Senona (Department of Social Development), and I interviewed over 100 social grantees to understand the challenges of delivering social welfare during a pandemic. We are using this research to advocate for Universal Basic Income.

Debt & Social Grants

The Black Sash, Deborah James (London School of Economics), David Neves (University of the Western Cape), and I explored the proliferation of payday loans to social grantees under the Post Office payment regime. We are using the evidence gathered to push for changes to the National Credit Act.

Net1's Payment System

Through collaborations with the Black Sash, I investigated the material workings of Net1's digital payment infrastructure. The Black Sash legal team used the evidence gathered to litigate against predatory financial practices at the Constitutional Court, bringing grant payment from private to public control.​

Land & Housing

Before graduate school, my research focused on land and housing delivery with the Development Action Group and Shack Dwellers International. With these organisations, I supported social movements of Black women demanding secure, dignified housing in the city.