University of Zimbabwe

Thandiwe Mafika is an Outreach Worker at CeSHHAR Zimbabwe. She holds a BSc Honours Degree in Psychology. Thandiwe has extensive experience in the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of community-based initiatives that promote growth and empowerment. Her professional skills set includes counselling, community mobilization, leadership, research, advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration.

Thandiwe’s current MPhil research focuses on the often-overlooked experiences of transgender youth, exploring the psychosocial challenges they encounter. By amplifying their voices and lived experiences, she seeks to dismantle barriers of discrimination and stigma, driving positive change through evidence-based advocacy and stakeholder engagement. Her goal is to champion transgender-inclusive laws and policies that advance equality and social justice for all.