Portrait of Divine Mpatiwa

Divine Mpatiwa

Insight-led marketer heading into FMCG brand strategy

I turn social research into consumer insight, and I've held real responsibility for people, not just coursework.

About me

I'm Divine, a Marketing PG Dip student at UCT with a background in sociology, organisational psychology and labour economics. My honours research looked at how township spatial planning keeps inequality in place. I want to use that way of thinking to understand why people choose the brands they do. Outside class I'm a Sub-Warden, a former tutor and a netball player. People come to me for advice and support, and I listen before I answer.

Proof

Honours thesis, Wits

SituationI set out to explain why inequality persists in South African townships.
ActionI researched how spatial planning shapes access to opportunity.
Result87%

Sub-Warden, Harpers Residence, UCT (2026)

Situation425 students and one portfolio covering health and safety, conflict, events and welfare.
ActionI handled building safety issues, worked through conflicts, ran events and liaised with residence stakeholders.
ResultI was trusted with the full portfolio for a 425-student residence.

Academic Tutor, Wits

SituationFive groups, three in Sociology and two in Organisational Psychology.
ActionI marked assignments and gave feedback.
ResultHonours-bound third years and first years building their foundation in the field.

Skills

Tools

  • Canva
  • Excel
  • Claude

Strengths

  • Research design
  • Qualitative and quantitative analysis
  • Giving feedback
  • Conflict resolution
  • Stakeholder liaison
  • Event coordination

Journey

  1. 2021 to 2024BSocSci, Organisational Psychology and SociologyUniversity of Cape Town
  2. SHAWCO EducationUCT. Volunteer, then Events Coordinator, supporting grade 10 to 12 learners
  3. Academic TutorUniversity of the Witwatersrand
  4. 2025BA Honours, Labour, Economics and Development StudiesUniversity of the Witwatersrand
  5. 2026PG Dip Management (Marketing)University of Cape Town
  6. 2026Sub-Warden, Harpers ResidenceUniversity of Cape Town

Let's talk about the brands you're building.

I'd love to hear what you're working on, and I'll listen before I answer.