Sanelisiwe Xulu is serious about changing the world through citizen science and education, but she also gets to escape all that by watching comedy and crime series to enter a world of laughter, mystery and suspense. She was born and raised in Melmoth in KwaZulu-Natal and her academic journey includes a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Planning and Development and an Honours in Geography, both at the University of Zululand, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She is currently placed with WILDTRUST, where she serves as a climate change scientist intern. Her work involves assessing threats to seasonal wetlands, engaging with communities, developing educational materials and providing logistical and administrative support. 

We asked her a few questions to find out more about her work, studies and inspirations:    

What are you passionate about?  

I am passionate about environmental education and using tools such as citizen science as I believe that education is one way we can raise awareness about environmental issues and the climate crisis. 

What inspired your choice of study? 

Growing up in a rural area, I was always surrounded by nature but as I’ve grown older, I’ve noticed the beauty I fell in love with has slowly been fading as more people develop the land. That drove my fascination with how people connect and interact with the environment they live in.  

What excites you about your internship? 

I am excited about participating in climate change projects that will make an impact. I get to work with different communities and appreciate the opportunity to contribute my skills and knowledge to the field of biodiversity conservation. I am also excited about the opportunity to educate others about climate change and how we can adapt and mitigate climate change impacts.  

What are your expectations of this internship? 

I hope to gain skills and knowledge that make me employable after the internship. I also hope to grow as a young environmentalist so that I can help develop sustainable conservation solutions that will assist with adapting and mitigating the impacts of climate change. 

What contribution do you hope to make towards a future in which people and nature thrive? 

I hope to contribute to a future where people and nature thrive by using my knowledge and skills to drive climate resilience and sustainability. I want to empower communities to be part of environmental conservation and climate resilience initiatives.  

Who inspires you most and why? 

My father and sister, Nontokozo, inspire me because of their strength, kindness and determination. They have always been my source of encouragement and support, pushing me to become the best version of myself and to pursue my dreams. Their positive influence has shaped me into the woman I am today, and I am grateful for their presence in my life.