Ms. Sizwekazi Yapi

Sizwekazi Yapi known as Ruru was born in Mdantsane, a township in East London in the Eastern Cape. She currently works at the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) at the uShaka Sea World Education Centre as a Marine Education Facilitator. Her role is to engage with learners and students of all ages to promote marine conservation. As part of this role, she communicates science concepts in layman’s terms to school groups, educators and the general public. Ruru has a passion in promoting science engagement and inspiring others about the wonders of science through simple yet innovative science experiences.  She seeks opportunities to advance her career and upskill.

Ruru completed a degree in Biological Science from Walter Sisulu University in 2013. In 2014 she was a high school science teacher where she excited learners about science.  During her third year she attended the SAIAB Winter School Programme in which the exposure captivated her interest for the marine biodiversity. In 2015 she interned with the Department of Environmental Science under Oceans and Coasts Directorate which exposed her to an array of practical and theoretical experience in this multidisciplinary field. In July 2017 she was part of the 10 day SEAmester II voyage on board the SA Agulhas research vessel to gain practical deck training in science research which has increased her understanding of Science and the sea. She was asked to convene the Opening Ceremony of the 2017 Joint Assembly in Earth Sciences (www.iapso-iamas-iaga2017.com) in Cape Town. She recently attended the SAIAB Summer School 2017 to gain experience in estuarine research using telemetry and baited underwater vehicles. She enjoys being in the field as it exposes her to the varied disciplines within science which can be linked together to promote effective communication for environmental conservation and connection.