Thabo Keamogetswe Mabena

Thabo Keamogetswe Mabena

I am an undergraduate student at the University of Venda, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology with the aim of becoming a counselling psychologist, i am currently in my third year of study. My academic focus and area of interest has been centred on human behavior, development and understanding how individuals can overcome challenges to reach their potential.
I am part of the university of Venda international students union and my role has involved engaging students in order to support creativity and social cohesion. I am affiliated with PsySSA SD and have contributed by advocating for increased recognition of PsySSA among students with the aim of building a stronger and more united collective of psychology students in the university of Venda

Aphelele	Dungelo

Aphelele Dungelo

I am an Honours student in Psychology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where my research explores the obstacles faced by psychology honours students. My academic journey reflects a strong interest in student development, mental health, and how learning environments can be shaped to better support students both academically and personally.
Beyond my studies, I serve as the Vice President of Enactus UKZN (Howard College Campus). In this role, I work with a dynamic team of students on projects that address pressing social challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship. A key part of this work has been engaging stakeholders such as faculty advisors, alumni board members, the UKZN Foundation, and ENSPIRE, whose guidance and support have been central to strengthening our initiatives. This has given me valuable experience in collaboration, partnership building, and leading diverse teams toward a shared vision.
My interests lie in mental health, sustainable development, and educational access, and I am committed to using psychology not only as a discipline of study but also as a tool for positive social change. I see leadership and psychology as deeply connected, both requiring empathy, adaptability, and a commitment to empowering others.
Maliha Khan

Maliha Khan

I am currently a third-year student at the University of the Witwatersrand, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Psychology and Sociology. Over the past two years, I have actively participated in the PsySSA Student Division, consistently seeking opportunities to deepen my academic and professional engagement with the discipline.
During this period, I have volunteered at significant events, including the annual PsySSA Congress and the 2024 International Network for Hate Studies Conference. I also participated in the Student Division’s 2024 National Mentorship Programme, which enhanced my understanding of the diverse pathways within psychology and allowed me to establish meaningful connections with both peers and professionals.
It is a privilege to serve as an additional member on the Executive Committee of the PsySSA Student Division. My academic interests primarily focus on Critical Psychology and Critical Social Psychology, with a strong commitment to exploring the socio-political aspects of mental health. I aspire to create an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment where students can critically engage with current events, psychological literature, and broader societal issues to promote reflective, transformative dialogue and to develop more holistic, socially conscious perspectives within the field of psychology.
Mpine Tebello	Hlapane

Mpine Tebello Hlapane

Tebello Mpine Hlapane is a postgraduate student and emerging scholar. She is currently an Additional Member serving on the PsySSA Student Division 2025-2027 Executive Committee.

Previously, she volunteered on the PsySSA SD Information Research Team and Content Creation Team. Here, Tebello conducted research on various topics for psychological education purposes, including schizophreniform disorder in the South African context. She also served as Secretary of the UFS Student Representative Council Executive Committees and obtained organisational, communication, and administrative skills.

Further, Tebello mentored UFS first-years and is prepared to assist students in her current role. She has volunteered at several organisations such as the Psychology Students Association (PSA), as well as the Annual PsySSA Conference. Her research interests include psychosocial development, access and success for students, masculinities in higher education, and culturally responsive counselling.

Tebello is committed to promoting psychological knowledge and mental health through research and digital content creation.