Professor Thea van der Westhuizen, an esteemed academic at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), holds the following qualifications:

• PhD in Leadership: Awarded by UKZN, focusing on leadership dynamics within the South African context.

• Master of Commerce (M.Com): Obtained from North-West University, specializing in strategic management and entrepreneurship.

In addition to her academic qualifications, Professor van der Westhuizen has received notable scholarships, including the DAAD-NRF In-Country Scholarship, which supports innovative research in South Africa.

She currently serves as the Academic Leader for High Impact Community Engagement and Internationalisation at UKZN, demonstrating her commitment to enhancing educational and community outreach programs.