Empowering and Enabling Marine and Polar Research

Come and meet Kelly, Asisipo, and Abu from the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI). They will be based in the Robberg Room at the Beacon Isle throughout the three days of the Plett Marine Science Symposium, hosting an interactive exhibition featuring immersive VR experiences, educational displays, and engaging activities designed to introduce participants to the world of polar and marine science in an accessible and exciting way.

SAPRI empowers and enables marine and polar research in South Africa. This informal engagement offers an opportunity to learn more about South Africa's role in Antarctica, the Southern Ocean, and marine research, as well as the importance of scientific infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public engagement.

THIS IS A FREE EVENT WITH NO BOOKING REQUIRED.

ABOUT KELLY MOGOTSI

Kelly Mogotsi is an Engagement Officer at the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI), with expertise in science communication, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable development. She holds a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences from North-West University, with academic foundations from Monash South Africa and the University of the Witwatersrand. With over a decade of experience across research, government, and consulting sectors, her work spans environmental governance, climate adaptation, renewable energy, and public engagement.

A career highlight includes overwintering on Marion Island as a Senior Meteorological Technician, contributing to South Africa's climate observation programmes. Kelly is passionate about bridging science and society through inclusive engagement, mentorship, and environmental advocacy.

ABOUT ABU NGUNA

Abu Nguna comes from the small town Komani in the Eastern Cape. During his postgraduate studies that he developed a strong passion for research and for nearly a decade has focused on periglacial aeolian processes as he works towards completing his PhD. As a two-time overwintering Marionite, he has extensive experience in sub-Antarctic and polar research environments. 

ABOUT ASISIPO MBONELI

Asisipo Mboneli is the Communications and Engagement Intern at the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI), where she supports communication, visibility, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.  With a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management from Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), she combines environmental knowledge with strong communication skills to make scientific research accessible and engaging to diverse audiences,