Saratu Mshelia is an urban studies researcher specializing in Southern Urbanism, with a background in qualitative research, community engagement, and a keen interest in the intersection of digital technology and urban governance. She holds an MPhil in Southern Urbanism from the University of Cape Town and a BSc in Environmental Biology from the
University of Maiduguri. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, Saratu conducted her master’s research on housing activism and the role of social media in shaping urban governance and housing justice in Cape
Town. Her work examined how digital platforms influence grassroots mobilization and public engagement. She is dedicated to research that fosters inclusive and sustainable urban development in the Global South.