Mantate Queeneth Mlotshwa

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 research examines Africa’s governance, global leadership, and the role of media, particularly digital media, in shaping international relations. She is especially interested in women’s leadership, global governance, and the intersections of diplomacy, media, and representation. Mantate’s work explores Africa’s connections with the Middle East, the diaspora, and the wider world, building on her prior focus on Sub-Saharan Africa. Through her studies, she aims to produce research that is academically rigorous and practically impactful, contributing to scholarship and policy in African international relations.

Academic Background

• M.Sc., African Studies, University of Oxford
• B.Sc., Psychology, University of Zimbabwe

Professional Experience

• Program Lead, Magamba Network, Zimbabwe – Directed democracy, rights, and governance initiatives focused on youth and women’s leadership
• Senior Programs Associate, International Republican Institute, Zimbabwe – Managed programs strengthening democratic institutions and participation
• Programs Associate, Women’s Institute for Leadership Development, Zimbabwe – Advanced projects supporting women’s political participation and community leadership
• Communications Consultant, Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network, South Africa – Provided strategic communications support to regional human rights initiatives
• 2024, Visiting Scholar, CAMRI, University of Westminster, United Kingdom – Worked alongside Prof. Winston Mano
• Assistant, Journal of African Media Studies (JAMS), United Kingdom

In Their Own Words

“The most beautiful part of my journey at The Africa Institute has been learning from African professors whose expertise and lived experiences bring Global African Studies to life. It’s inspiring and humbling to be guided by such brilliant scholars. I’ve also fallen in love with the community here. I never feel like I’m walking a new journey alone. From exploring the UAE together to late-night conversations about our research, travel, and food, I’ve built friendships and connections I know will last a lifetime. Add to that an amazing academic advisor and the joy of learning Arabic under an exceptional Arabic lecturer, and this experience feels truly worthwhile.”

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