Nothando Mngadi is a dedicated Master’s student in Town and Regional Planning at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable urban development. With a Bachelor of Social Sciences in Geography and Environmental Management and an Honours degree in Town and Regional Planning, she brings a strong academic foundation to her work. Her research, “Investigating the Role of Smart City Technologies in Transforming Waste Management Practices in Informal Settlements: A Case Study of Cato Manor”, examines how digital tools can enhance waste management in underserved areas, reflecting her passion for spatial justice, equitable service delivery, and technology-driven urban governance. Nothando’s professional goal is to contribute to innovative planning solutions that improve the quality of life in informal settlements and advance smart, inclusive cities.