Madeleine Basson

I am a hard-working student and a determined advocate for sustainability - in my personal life, my student community and (hopefully, one day) the world at large. My commitment to sustainable change is reflected in my active involvement in leadership and community work, my education, relationships and even my dietary choices. I am vigorous in my endeavours to effect sustainable change, but my convictions are ultimately informed by a deep compassion for people, animals and my environment.

My formal education has included law, english, psychology and sustainability. Prior to my undergraduate degree, I matriculated from Rhenish Girls’ High School and received full academic colours. I completed my BALaw degree in 2022 at Stellenbosch University, and continued my studies through the Post-graduate Diploma in Sustainable Development. I graduated with in December, 2023, with Cum Laude.

In 2024, I began my MPhil journey in Sustainability Transitions. As 2025 draws to a close, I have submitted my thesis on food security in South Africa, focusing on household access to food. I hope to enter the professional world in 2026, and to bridge my theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Outside of the classroom, I have engaged in different learning experiences, from First Aid to music examinations. I remain dedicated to effecting change in my community, as is evident in my community involvement and leadership experience. Ultimately, I seek to use the opportunities that I have to educate myself, so that I may be a meaningful change-maker.

I have recently completed my tertiary education, and have no job experience.

In 2023, I completed my PGDip in Sustainable Development at Stellenbosch University, graduating cum laude. The past two years have been dedicated to my Master's degree in Sustainability Transitions, focusing on food security in South Africa. I am excited to bridge my strong theoretical foundation with practical, “real world” knowledge.