Lauren Kotze

Lauren Kotze has a diverse work experience spanning several roles and industries. Lauren started their career in 2007 at Prysm Resources Mining and Geological Consultants, where they worked as an Office Manager and Technical Consultant until 2008. In 2009, they joined Eclipse Skillmatters/The winwin group as a Local Project Coordinator for the 5T's Project. Lauren then moved on to Converg Education, Training and Business Development in 2009, where they served as a Skills Project Manager, working on creative sector skills development projects.

In 2010, Lauren joined Cape Film Commission as an Education and Training Manager, handling skills and enterprise development. At the same time, they volunteered at Twenty30, focusing on leadership development. In 2011, they joined Reach Digital Health as a Programme Manager for Southern Africa, a role they held until 2016. During their time at Reach Digital Health, they also took on the role of Strategic Design Lead.

In 2016, Lauren transitioned to the role of Service Designer (Strategy and User Experience Design) at Reach Digital Health, where they worked until 2017. In the same year, they joined Praekelt.org as a Strategic Lead for Maternal Health and Early Childhood Development. Lauren'srole at Praekelt.org is set to end in 2023.

Lauren's work experience highlights their expertise in strategic design, program management, service design, and skills development in various sectors.

Lauren Kotze began their education at Stellenbosch University from 2001 to 2003, where they pursued Applied Value and Policy Studies with a focus on Politics. Lauren then attended the University of Cape Town from 2004 to 2005, where they obtained an Honours degree in International Relations. During their time at the University of Cape Town, Lauren studied African Politics, International Political Economy, Research Methodology, and Conflict in Africa. In addition to their formal education, Lauren Kotze also obtained additional certifications. In November 2018, they completed a course on Product Management with Lean, Agile, and System Design Thinking. In January 2015, they participated in an Executive Education Course in Evaluating Social Programmes offered by the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL).