ZAINAB TAONGA CHIRWA

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Founder, Host & Civic Strategist at StrangersX
April 1, 2025 - Present
Founded pan-African civic media platform reaching 8000+ views across three continents. Designed multi-pillar initiatives integrating civic education, policy research and strategic communication. Developed funding strategies including grant proposals and budget frameworks for digital sovereignty labs in Lusaka, Johannesburg and Nairobi. Host flagship policy podcast and video essay series exploring algorithmic governance, African digital sovereignty, and inclusive institutional design.
Teaching Fellow at AI Safety South Africa
March 1, 2024 - Present
Co-design and deliver African AI governance curriculum for cross-industry professionals and graduate students across Africa and Europe. Led an 8-week professional development program for postgraduate students at the University of Cape Town on complex AI regulatory and risk management training.
Governance and Policy Research Associate at Equiano Institute
August 1, 2023 - December 1, 2024
Conducted comparative research on AI and data governance frameworks across African jurisdictions. Produced whitepapers and strategic policy recommendations supporting regional regulatory alignment. Applied political economy and institutional analysis to assess governance gaps and reform opportunities.
Committee Member at RSA National Parliamentary GBV Task Force
June 1, 2021 - January 1, 2023
Monitored and evaluated the implementation of gender-based violence policies and support systems. Conducted stakeholder mapping to identify institutional bottlenecks and strengthen policy delivery. Supported cross-sector coordination between civil society, local government, and national partners.
Market Research Analyst at Briefco
November 1, 2023 - Present
Conducted a risk assessment audit on financial technology utilization in parliamentary systems in key African jurisdictions. Analyzed market trends to support strategic decision-making for technology adoption by clients.
Legal Archivist and Data Capturer at AfricaLii
September 1, 2023 - November 1, 2023
Drafted case summaries on regulatory compliance, financial governance, and corporate risk assessment. Ensured high-quality data integrity in financial and legal case database.
Program Director at Madina Institute Centre for Non-Violence & Peace Studies
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2019
Led initiatives aligned with UN Orange the World campaign during 16 Days of Activism against GBV. Designed and implemented anti-GBV workshops for 300+ Cape Town high school learners. Coordinated with local and international civil society organizations on advocacy and resource mobilization. Promoted from Facilitator (2017) to Program Director (2019) based on impact and leadership.

Education

Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at University of Cape Town
January 1, 2025 - June 1, 2026
Bachelor of Arts (Law & Geography) at Rhodes University
January 1, 2016 - January 4, 2026
National Senior Certificate at Maritzburg Muslim School for Girls
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2012

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Government, Non-Profit Organization, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Software & Internet