Charles Mpho Takalana completed his Ph.D. in physics focusing on Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in December 2020. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. Charles currently works at the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) as the Head of Secretariat. He supports the AfAS Executive Committee and the sub-committees, manages the AfAS secretariat, and coordinates all AfAS projects to ensure that they achieve their objectives within the timelines and funding provided. Before his current employment, he was an Astronomy Policy Researcher at the South African Radio Astronomy observatory based at the South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI). Charles’ work at the DSI involved supporting the implementation of the South African Multi-wavelength Astronomy strategy, and the development of a vibrant astronomy community with the technical capacity to ensure the implementation of various astronomy projects. Before joining the DSI, Charles was a Junior Consultant Analyst at CorpActive providing professional management consulting analytics services. Charles is also involved in various outreach projects and is passionate about sharing astronomy with young people.
