University of Zimbabwe

Edwin Mavindidze is an occupational therapist and lecturer in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at University of Zimbabwe’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. He holds a Master of Occupational Therapy (advances occupational therapy) degree from Stellenbosch University, a Bachelor of Social Science Special Honours degree in Monitoring and Evaluation from Lupane State University and a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Zimbabwe. He is currently a PhD fellow at the University of Zimbabwe funded by the African Mental Health Research Initiative (AMARI) II.

His main research interests are in the areas of work participation in mental health, social determinants of mental health, social inclusion, occupational justice, occupational experiences, vocational rehabilitation and supported employment.

Edwin’s PhD research focuses on referral of persons with substance use disorders to vocational rehabilitation interventions that enhance participation in work to address social determinants. He aims to develop a referral algorithm that can be used by various mental health professionals in Zimbabwe, directing persons with substance use disorders to culturally sensitive vocational rehabilitation services to meet their work needs.

Supervisors

• Dr Tecla Mlambo, University of Zimbabwe

• A/ Prof. Lana van Niekerk, Stellenbosch University

• Prof Dixon Chibanda, University of Zimbabwe