Zaheera Rajab

Zaheera Rajab is a sociolinguistic researcher by training and an educator by choice. She graduated cum laude, with a Master’s in Education in 2023 (Applied Language and Literacy Studies) at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Her passion in education stems from growing up in a post-Apartheid South Africa, and having to overcome the difficulties posed by being a “born-free” in a society where inequalities and oppression endure. Throughout her career, Zaheera has worn many hats – from educator to researcher to activist. 

She served as a Peace Ambassador, representing the United Nations’ SDGs, advocating for social justice and equality at the age of 15. As an educator, Zaheera has taught students from France, Germany, Spain, South Africa and several Latin American countries. She has acted as a mentor for students at the University of Cape Town and also been involved with organisations such as UNESCO’s Institute for Lifelong Learning and the University of Cape Town’s UN Association of South Africa chapter, showcasing her passion for education and human rights. 

Over the course of her career, she strives to contribute to education initiatives in Africa and beyond, empowering students and developing Africa’s next leaders. This is what drew Zaheera towards the Beacon, wherein she endeavours to contribute towards its longevity, help more young people follow their academic dreams, and educate scholars about the tools they need to succeed. For fun, she raises stray cats, learns new languages (Spanish at the moment) and aims to try something new every week.