Chayana Amina Hamidou

Cape Town, South Africa / +27 2434 0229 / chayana.hamidou@gmail.com

EDUCATION
University of the Western Cape Bellville, Cape Town
Maters of Arts in Political Studies Sep 2023

University of the Western Cape Bellville, Cape Town

Bachelor of Honours in Political Studies Apr 2020

University of the Western Cape Bellville, Cape Town

Bachelor of Arts Apr 2018

WORK EXPERIENCE
Writing Centre University of the Western Cape, Bellville
Academic Writing Tutor Jan 2023 - Present
• Fulfilled the Writing Centre’s goals of encouraging active learning and adept revision strategies in student
clients.
• Instructed effectively with students from diverse backgrounds, including ESL and international students,
and students in a variety of academic fields.
• Implemented interactive workshops and writing exercises to engage diverse clients, resulting in a 20%
increase in active participation.
• Created personalized writing improvement plans for each client, resulting in an increase in the clarity and
coherence of their work.

Department of Political Studies University of the Western Cape, Bellville

Political Studies Tutor Jan 2018 - Sep 2022
• Facilitated learning, lecturing, tutoring, assessments, and research and effectively prepared and taught
classes to facilitate student learning, demonstrating a commitment to professional development and
significant contributions to the Political Studies Department.
• Met University and department deadlines and evaluated student work in a timely manner including marking
of assessments, tests, and exams and submitting final grades on time making the maintaining of student
records and performance much easier.
• Maintained a supportive attitude toward work, students, colleagues, and administration, and with people of
diverse backgrounds and skills, introducing students from disadvantaged backgrounds to honing their skills
on the computer, increasing the number of assignments handed in by 20%.
• Contributed and implemented innovative teaching and learning strategies, including technology-enhanced
learning methodologies.

PROJECT & RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Master’s Thesis Bellville, Cape Town
Perceptions of Young Black women on hair Policing Jan 2020 - Jul 2023
• Researched and conducted through in-depth interviews and focus groups into the politicization of natural
black hair and its ties to institutional racism, utilizing rigorous research methodologies and political analysis.
• Designed and executed a comprehensive research plan, including a literature review, data collection, and
analysis of both quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Examined the social and cultural implications of natural black hair as a critical aspect of identity and its
impact on marginalized communities.
• Employed a combination of qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, and content
analysis of media representations.
• Employed theories from political studies to analyse power dynamics, systemic oppression, and the role of
institutions in perpetuating racial biases.
• Identified parallels between the dynamics observed in the politicization of natural black hair and broader
patterns of discrimination and prejudice within societies.
• Developed a nuanced understanding of race-related issues, intersectionality, and social justice concerns
through the research process.
• Demonstrated expertise in applying rigorous research methodologies, ensuring validity, reliability, and
ethical considerations in data collection and analysis.
• Collaborated with academic advisors and experts in the field to refine research objectives and align the
thesis with current global political and social challenges.
• Produced a detailed report and presented research findings to academic panels, showcasing the ability to
communicate complex information effectively.
• Articulated findings in a comprehensive thesis, showcasing the ability to communicate complex social
issues effectively.

Salt River and UWC Community Project Salt River, Cape Town
Project Coordinator Apr 2019 - Jul 2019
• Developed and executed a comprehensive community engagement plan, resulting in increased participation
by 50% and improved communication between residents and developers.
• Expected to decrease the tensions between inhabitants and developers through our recommendations
implementation strategies by 20%
• Achieved consensus among a diverse group of stakeholders by facilitating productive discussions and
incorporating their feedback, leading to a 30% boost in support for the organization's initiatives.

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Bizweni Community Church Somerset West
Youth Leader and Treasurer Jan 2020 - Present
• Successfully organized and led fundraising activities, resulting in vital funds for numerous community
outreach programs.
• Demonstrated strong financial acumen by managing and balancing the youth group's accounts, ensuring
accurate bookkeeping and transparent financial reporting.
• Coordinated and oversaw a diverse range of youth activities and events, fostering a sense of community
and teamwork among members.
• Mentored and empowered a team of youth leaders, cultivating their leadership skills and unlocking their
full potential.
• Developed and delivered engaging workshops on financial literacy, equipping youth members with
essential budgeting and money management skills.
• Collaborated with church leaders and committees to plan and execute joint events, strengthening
intergenerational connections within the congregation.
• Played a key role in driving the growth of the youth community within the church through active
involvement and enthusiastic engagement with members and leaders alike.

SKILLS & INTERESTS

Computer: Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Notion, Zoom, Teams
Language: English (Native), French (Intermediate-high), Mandarin Chinese (Intermediate-low)
Interest: Cooking & Baking, Reading
Skills: Analytical & Research skills, interdisciplinary perspective, critical thinking, financial management,
event organization, collaboration & team management

CERTIFICATES
Data Strategy
Introduction to Excel
Statistics