Mantate Queeneth Mlotshwa is a Master of Arts student in Global African Studies at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations, from Zimbabwe. Her work sits at the intersection of governance, diplomacy, media, and global power, examining how African actors engage with and shape international political and economic systems. She is particularly interested in questions of leadership, representation, global economic governance, and the role of media, especially digital media, in influencing political narratives and international engagement. Her research explores Africa's relationships with the Middle East, the African diaspora, and broader global processes, with a focus on how these connections shape contemporary debates on development, influence, and agency. Through her scholarship, Mantate seeks to bridge academic inquiry and policy practice, contributing research that advances both knowledge production and meaningful engagement with African international affairs.
Academic Background
- M.Sc., African Studies, University of Oxford
- B.Sc., Psychology, University of Zimbabwe
Professional Experience
- Founder and Lead, U Motle- Building a fashion venture that connects African fashion creators with global markets through storytelling, commerce, and brand development
- Communications Support, Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx)- Led digital storytelling for the AfOx 10th Anniversary celebrations, producing and distributing content across social media platforms. Previously served as Co-Chair of the AfOx Social Media Ambassadors, leading student-driven efforts to strengthen brand visibility and audience engagement
- Strategy Consultant, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe- Designed and implemented a global talent strategy connecting internationally trained African graduates with opportunities in African corporate institutions, while strengthening talent pipelines for the continent's private sector
- Visiting Scholar, Centre for Communication and Media Research Institute (CAMRI), University of Westminster, United Kingdom (2024)- Conducted research under the mentorship of Winston Mano, contributing to scholarship on media and African affairs
- Assistant, Journal of African Media Studies (JAMS), United Kingdom– Supported administrative and publication processes for a leading journal in African media and communication research
- Communications Consultant, Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network, South Africa- Led strategic communications of regional human rights initiatives, enhancing visibility, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement
- Program Lead, Magamba Network, Zimbabwe– Led creative democracy, governance, and civic engagement programmes, with a focus on youth participation, women's leadership, and social accountability
- Senior Programs Associate, International Republican Institute, Zimbabwe- Managed democracy and governance programmes aimed at strengthening civic participation, institutional effectiveness, and political inclusion
- Programs Associate, Women's Institute for Leadership Development, Zimbabwe- Supported initiatives advancing women's political participation, leadership development, and community empowerment
In Their Own Words
“My time at The Africa Institute has shaped me into the scholar I hoped to become, one prepared not only for future doctoral study, but for meaningful engagement with a rapidly changing world. It has deepened my understanding of Africa, its people, and its place in global affairs, while helping me refine the questions I want my research to pursue. The academic training has been rigorous and intellectually rewarding, enriched by the guidance of exceptional professors and mentors.
Beyond the classroom, I have built friendships and experiences that have broadened my understanding of the UAE and the Arab world. Through shared meals, travel, language learning, and cultural exchange, I have formed connections that will endure long after graduation. The time I have spent here has expanded not only what I know about the world, but how I understand it, and that, to me, is the true value of education.”
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