I am an Associate Professor in Economics at Stellenbosch University. My research and teaching sit at the intersection of development economics, applied microeconomics, and quantitative social science. My work seeks to understand how social and economic institutions shape opportunities, behaviour, and wellbeing, with a particular focus on inequality, social exclusion, identity, and human development in South Africa and other emerging economies.

My research combines rigorous empirical methods (causal inference, econometrics, survey analysis, and machine learning) with questions that have direct policy relevance. I am particularly interested in how people's perceptions of their social position, aspirations, and identities influence economic decision-making and life outcomes.

My academic work has been recognised through research fellowships at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS) and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University. My commitment to teaching has been acknowledged through Stellenbosch University's Excellence in Teaching Award, the Chancellor's Award, and a Teaching Fellowship, reflecting my dedication to advancing both disciplinary knowledge and innovative, student-centred pedagogy.

I have taught across a wide range of educational contexts, including large undergraduate classes, correctional education programmes, and executive MBA programmes. I believe that higher education should equip students not only with technical expertise but also with the curiosity, judgement, and intellectual independence needed to address complex societal challenges.