Lebogang Mogale

Lebogang Mogale is a Town and Regional Planner with a growing presence in the field of sustainability and climate advocacy. Based in Polokwane, South Africa, Lebogang brings both academic depth and field experience to the intersection of urban development and environmental responsibility. Currently serving as a Candidate Town Planner with the City of Polokwane and a CASCADE Scholar under the Climate System Analysis Group, Lebogang demonstrates a commitment to advancing urban planning through climate-aware practices. 

Academically, Lebogang holds a Master of Urban Studies in Urban Management from the University of the Witwatersrand and is currently pursuing an MPhil in Environmental and Geographical Sciences, specializing in Environment, Society, and Sustainability, at the University of Cape Town. These academic pursuits are complemented by professional certifications including a CASCADE Leadership Course and training in climate change negotiations and health. This strong educational foundation supports a clear trajectory towards becoming a “sustainability pracademic,” a professional blending academic inquiry with practical application.

In early 2025, Lebogang served as a researcher with Climate Change Writers South Africa, where critical thinking and climate storytelling intersected to produce thought-provoking content. A standout piece explored the parallels between science fiction and current climate challenges in South Africa—demonstrating how dystopian narratives increasingly mirror lived experiences in urban spaces facing droughts, energy crises, and climate-driven disruptions. The article not only highlighted climate risks but also called for innovation and policy adaptation, embodying the group’s mission of transforming public engagement through climate storytelling.

Lebogang’s contribution to the Climate Change Writers team brought a rich blend of urban planning insights and literary creativity to the organization’s mission. With a passion for climate justice and a knack for relatable communication, Lebogang’s work helped translate complex climate data into compelling narratives for a broad audience. This role, though brief, amplified the team’s capacity to frame climate discourse in ways that inspire reflection, resilience, and action—making Lebogang a valuable voice in South Africa’s evolving climate dialogue.