Historian and former spoken-word poet, Dr Njica brings a unique perspective to our community.
Dr Siyabonga Njica’s research delves into the fascinating world of exiled South African writers and artists, exploring their impact on both South African and global culture. He believes passionately in bringing their stories out of the archives and into the light, where they can be celebrated and understood.
His research has taken him beyond the rich resources of Cambridge to archives in London, including the British Library and the BBC Written Archives Centre. The Covid lockdown and the Black Lives Matter protests profoundly impacted his work, leading him to a deeper understanding of the cultural dimensions of South African history and the crucial role of African intellectuals in the 20th century.
Dr Njica's passion for the subject extends beyond his doctoral work. He has continued his research as a postdoctoral fellow at the Centre for African Studies and is currently working on two books: a monograph on Bloke Modisane and a co-edited volume based on a symposium he co-convened at the University of Johannesburg. He is also contributing a chapter on the black female broadcaster and writer Noni Jabavu to a book titled "South Africa's Black Britons."
He is also deeply interested in the role institutions play in fostering conversations about equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Dr Njica is committed to demystifying Cambridge for students from under-represented backgrounds. He believes in highlighting the diverse histories embedded within the university and its collections.
We are thrilled to have him join our community. His dedication to research, teaching, and public engagement embodies the spirit of Lucy Cavendish College. We look forward to the contributions he will make to our academic environment and the wider conversations about history, culture, and social justice.