Recognition
Thea’s contributions have earned her significant recognition. She was honored as the Best Youth Development Organisation in KZN for SHAPE’s impact in the province. She also received an Innovative Youth Incubator Award (2018) on an international stage for excellence in community engagement.
Under her leadership, UKZN and partner institutions have won multiple awards in entrepreneurship development, and she has been featured in national education forums for her work. Despite these accolades, Thea remains humble and focused on the work itself – using each honor as motivation to further serve students and society.
Books by Prof. Thea
Prof. van der Westhuizen has authored several books that encapsulate her research findings and practical insights on entrepreneurship. These works are aimed at academics, practitioners, and anyone interested in youth and entrepreneurship development.
A multi-award-winning academic and entrepreneur who thrives at the nexus of academia, industry, and community.
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