Biodiversity Scientist, Strategist, Knowledge Broker
Biodiversity Informatics, Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)
& Climate Change
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I am a biodiversity scientist, strategist, and global driver of change, with extensive experience in operationalizing the data-science-policy interface to inform real-world decision-making. My work spans strategy development, international liaison, stakeholder engagement, and building networks that advance biodiversity information management both in theory and in practice.
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As South Africa’s focal point to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), I play a key role in shaping national and regional agendas, with deep insight into the needs and priorities of African countries in the biodiversity informatics space.
My areas of expertise include:​
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Biodiversity Informatics & Data Mobilization
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Climate Change & Invasive Alien Species
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Science-Policy Integration
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Human Capital Development
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International Collaboration & Strategic Partnerships
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Areas of Interest
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Expertise and Contributions in Biodiversity Informatics
Over the past two decades, my work has spanned multiple strategic domains, including thought leadership, scientific research, human capital development, and the establishment of robust networks and partnerships — all within the evolving field of biodiversity informatics.
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As a recognized thought leader, I currently serve as a strategic advisor to the G20 Research and Innovation Working Group. I also contribute to the G20 Science Committee, led by the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), where I support the integration of biodiversity priorities into the planning agenda for the G20 Summit in 2025. I am also contributing to the strategic discussions seeking alignments between the RIWG and the Climate and Environment Working Group of the G20. Further engagements and alignments have also included the G20 Culture Working Group.
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A key innovation I have led is the development and deployment of a Conveyor Belt System for Industrial-Scale Digitization — a pioneering initiative on the African continent. This system dramatically increases the rate at which Natural History Collections are digitized, enabling unprecedented progress in data mobilization for biodiversity science.
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My research has consistently focused on positioning biodiversity informatics as a distinct and strategic scientific discipline, including facilitated sessions with both global and national communities and with peer review publications as a clear outcome. This work has helped strengthen South Africa’s contribution and influence in the global science, technology, and innovation (STI) landscape.
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At the international level, I have served as a member of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) Task Force on Data and Knowledge. In this role, I contributed to the development of the IPBES’ Data Management Policy and helped catalyze the use of data in support of science-policy interface efforts globally.
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In the realm of human capital development, I have designed and implemented national strategies, eLearning platforms, and specialized training programs aimed at building capacity in biodiversity informatics. These initiatives have played a critical role in nurturing the next generation of scientists and data practitioners in the field.
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Equally central to my work has been the development of collaborative partnerships at national, regional, and global levels. These efforts have fostered coordinated research, advanced data publication and mobilization, and supported the growth of communities of practice. Through these collaborations, I continue to drive strategic alignment and capacity building in biodiversity informatics, enabling more effective responses to environmental and ecological challenges worldwide.
