Jaclyn Modise is a Master of Arts candidate in Migration & Displacement at the African Centre for Migration & Society, University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). Her research examines the intersections of fintech, migration, labour, and development, exploring how digital financial technologies are reshaping the experiences and economic agency of SADC migrant communities.
This academic focus is informed by her extensive practical experience in human rights investigation and advocacy. As a Research Consultant and Activism Coordinator with Amnesty International South Africa (AISA), she conducted interviews with activists under threat, analysed systemic issues, and produced evidence-based reports to inform campaigns and policy. Her ongoing commitment to AISA’s governance is reflected in her role on the Board Nominations Committee.
Furthermore, she holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Migration and Displacement (WITS), and a Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Communications from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Professionally, Jaclyn skillfully utilises research and strategic communication, regulatory processes, social justice causes for social cohesion and enhancing public engagement. Her multilingual proficiency further supports her transnational and community-engaged approach to both scholarship and activism.
Jaclyn also serves as the Communications and Social Media Intern, overseeing the Xenowatch and Mobility Governance Lab (MGL) project websites. For Xenowatch, she manages the website, produces social media assets, edits videos, designs reports, updates digital assets, and leads community management. While for MGL, she manages the website and oversees social media platforms for community engagement.