Botshabelo Monama is a dedicated student at the University of Pretoria, currently pursuing his Masters degree in Political Science. With a profound interest in international relations, politics, governance and leadership, Botshabelo has engaged in various leadership roles. He currently serves as a Research Assistant for the African Centre for Study of the United States, where he spearheads initiatives to promote research and discourse on the U.S.-Africa relations. Under his leadership, the association has organised symposiums and workshops that explore diverse facets of American policy, culture, and their impact on African nations like South Africa. Additionally, Botshabelo serves the University of Pretoria in various capacities.

Botshabelo’s commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of transnational issues extends beyond his role at the ACSUS, he also contributes as a research assistant and academic teaching assistant to the Department of Political Sciences. His research focuses on economic diplomacy and its implications for African economies, reflecting her dedication to bridging academic knowledge with practical insights. Botshabelo has also been privileged to engage with the BRICS Ministerial Summit in collaboration with DIRCO in Cape Town as well as being interviewed by a prestigious radio station and newspapers. Outside academia, Botshabelo is actively involved in community outreach programs aimed at empowering youth through education and leadership development. He served for STARS Mentorship as the chairperson of the executive committee bridging the gap between university and high school. He previously worked as an intern for the Department of Student Affairs, catering to the needs of student leadership bodies and societies. He has also worked for the Independent Electoral Committee, ensuring that national and provincial elections of the Republic of South Africa are free, fair and just. Botshabelo has a wide range of expertise from research, leadership, community engagement, social development and governance. Driven by a passion for diplomacy and global governance, Botshabelo aspires to leverage his academic training and leadership experiences to advance policy dialogue and cooperation between Africa and the United States.