Abel Mavura
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Abel Mavura. Joined ISSS in 2024.
Abel Mavura is a UK-based global systems thinker, changemaker, and social entrepreneur who joined the International Society for the Systems Sciences (ISSS) in 2024 to contribute to interdisciplinary solutions for global challenges. With more than 13 years of experience leading development initiatives across Africa, Asia, and Europe, his work bridges the fields of migration, human rights, gender equality, sustainable development, and technology for social inclusion. Currently pursuing an MPhil/PhD in Architecture and Urban Studies at the University of Cambridge (Clutton-Brock Scholar and Cambridge Trust Awardee, 2025), Abel’s research Fostering Resilience in Informal Urban Housing: A Study of Migrant Communities examines how displaced populations build resilience through adaptive urban design. In parallel, as a PhD Candidate in Development Studies – Migration at Africa Research University, he applies systems thinking to explore the nexus of migration, informality, and masculinity.
Personal Life
Born in Mutoko, Zimbabwe, Abel’s drive for social justice stems from early exposure to rural challenges and grassroots activism. His worldview was further shaped by time spent in France (Sciences Po), China (technology studies), and Ghana (advocacy with ActionAid). He currently resides in the UK, continuing in the academic fields and leading global development initiatives and mentoring emerging youth leaders.
Academic Background
- MPhil/PhD in Architecture and Urban Studies (current), University of Cambridge
- PhD Candidate in Development Studies – Migration, Africa Research University
- Master in Advanced Global Studies, Sciences Po Paris (2018–2019)
- Bachelor of Social Sciences (Sociology), Great Zimbabwe University (2015)
- Diploma in Journalism & Communication, Christian College in Southern Africa (2018)
- Diploma in English, College of Professional Management, Southampton (2007)
- Certificate in News Gathering, Reuters (2023)
Notable Works
- The Art of Realising Your Dream (2017)
- Never a Last Episode (2022)
- Taku’s Awakening (forthcoming)
- Book Chapters:
- “Chapter TWO: Rendering Africa More Resilient…” (2022)
- “Chapter SIX: The Role of People as Individual and Collective Agents…” (2022)
- Academic Paper (2025): Performing Resilience: Masculinity and Solidarity Among Young Male Migrants in Paris’ Informal Housing — selected for #GenderAndDevelopment2025, University of East Anglia
Career Highlights
- Founder & Director, Marvel Act Youth Organisation (MAYO) – Empowered 2,000+ youth through advocacy, ICT, and theatre.
- Development Strategist – Led policy and tech-focused programs across Ghana, China, and the UK.
- Theatre for Social Change – Directed and performed migration-themed productions, featured at UNESCO Africa Week 2019.
- Advocate & Policy Contributor – Engaged with UK legal teams on migration and presented research at the Society for the Advancement of Science in Africa.
- Tech & Data Researcher – Designs technology-based solutions for migrant inclusion and urban policy.
Recognitions & Awards
- Clutton-Brock Awardee, University of Cambridge (2025)
- Cambridge Trust Scholar (2025)
- Youth Civic Leadership Award (2021)
- Gender Champion – Men as Role Models, Canadian Embassy & Shamwari YeMwanasikana (2022)
- Social Justice & Leadership Awards (2019–2024)
- Zimbabwe Community Trailblazer of the Year (2024)
- Top 40 Influential Zimbabweans (2017, 2023)
Special Interests
- Migration and Resilience
- Human Rights and Social Justice
- Systems Thinking for Policy and Development
- Community Empowerment
- Technology for Social Inclusion