Ms Funani Tshivhase, a lecturer in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture (FSEA), Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP), is dedicated to creating sustainable and liveable communities. She is a registered Professional Planner with the South African Council for Planners (SACPLAN – A/3073/2022) in terms of the Planning Professions Act 36 of 2002. Furthermore, she registered with the South African Planning Institute (SAPI) as a student graduate.
Ms Tshivhase holds a Bachelor’s degree in Town and Regional Planning, and a Master’s degree in Sustainable Urban Planning and Development from the University of Johannesburg, as well as a Master’s degree in GIS and Remote Sensing at Wits University. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Management at Wits University.
Throughout her career, she embraced a holistic approach to urban planning, recognising that successful towns foster a sense of belonging and connection. She advocates for mixed-use developments that promote walkability, easy access to amenities, and a high quality of life.
In 2024, she was recognised as one of South Africa’s Top Women in Planning (Dream Builder and Inspire categories). Most recently, in 2025, she was recognised for her contribution to the field of urban and regional planning as one of the Top 30 South Africa’s Young Planning
Professionals (Academic category). Ms Tshivhase is grateful for the support from FSEA and DURP at the University of Venda, and her fellow planners for all her achievements.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
