Takudzwa Charisse Taruza

Takudzwa Charisse Taruza, PhD, is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where her work centres on disaster risk reduction with a focus on integrated human settlement planning in vulnerable communities. With an academic foundation in City, Urban, Community, and Regional Planning, her expertise spans sustainable development, urban resilience, and spatial planning. Prior to her current research role, she spent nearly seven years as a Town Planner and GIS Consultant with AGES – Africa Geo-Environmental Engineering and Science Pty Ltd, contributing to informal settlement upgrading and geographic information systems (GIS) mapping in South Africa.

Her academic journey includes a Doctorate from North-West University, South Africa, where she delved into the intricacies of urban and regional planning. Additionally, she holds a postgraduate diploma in Developing Social Housing Projects from IHS, Erasmus University Rotterdam. These academic and professional experiences have equipped her with a unique ability to bridge theoretical frameworks with applied solutions in the fields of urban development, land use planning, and sustainable communities. Charisse’s approach is informed by deep technical knowledge and a commitment to spatial justice and social impact in Southern Africa.

Within the Climate Change Writers South Africa team, Charisse has brought a keen editorial eye to her role as Article Editor since January 2025. Her contribution has enhanced the quality and depth of published content, reinforcing the platform’s mission to advance climate discourse through informed storytelling. By supporting a new generation of climate-focused writers and curating impactful narratives, she has played a vital role in shaping public understanding of climate adaptation, policy, and resilience at the community level.

Charisse’s work consistently reflects a passion for inclusive and sustainable urban futures. Through both her academic research and editorial contributions, she advances dialogues that matter—especially for communities most affected by the environmental crises of our time. Her involvement with Climate Change Writers exemplifies her dedication to collaboration, thought leadership, and advocacy in the climate space.