This year’s Ruth First Scholar

This year’s Ruth First Scholar (2025-26)

Bazela Rivombo is from South Africa (Giyani, Limpopo province).

Bazela studied Social Sciences with Development Studies at North-West University, followed by BSc Hons in Population Studies at the University of the Western Cape. While at university she was involved in projects supporting fellow students and local communities: she was a junior facilitator and peer mentor, and a UNICEF South Africa NWU Mafikeng Campus Club volunteer. She participated in youth empowerment initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and community outreach projects focused on child rights, education and social development.

She has also shown leadership and initiative in the wider community, volunteering as a  community-led development facilitator for CorpsAfrica South Africa, and supporting youth development through mentorship and skills-building workshops.

At Durham Bazela is taking the Master of Data Science. She is a member of St Chad’s College, which supports the scholarship by providing subsidized accommodation for all Ruth First Scholars. She aims to “use the skills gained to develop data-driven strategies for poverty alleviation, urban planning and youth employment, critical areas that align with South Africa’s development priorities”.