Nathan Shave

Motivated British South African, predicting a First from the University of Leeds and completing nine subjects at Rondebosch Boys' High School with an aggregate above 80%.

Completing a degree in International History and Politics (BA) from the University of Leeds grew a passion for geopolitical analysis, communication, and research. The academic background focuses on modern geopolitics and post-colonial history, highlighted by high-scoring work analysing historical and political structures. Notably including the dissertation, which analysed British Policy response to the Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa, dismantling historical assumptions on the subject. A second year ‘Long-essay’ (91%) analysed the ‘Mobutu Gap’ in historiography and how scholars tend to overlook Mobutu Sese Seko’s actual assumption of power.

Scholarly and leisure pursuits indicate a passion for independent creative work, community engagement, and leadership. Including being a member of IHP Society, History Society, Christian Union, and Album Review Society at University, and taking two extra-curricular subjects at school while leading the Christian Union. Driven by a commitment to service and leadership, organising major university event weeks and International Welcome Weeks.

Volunteered at various community service projects in South Africa, including a GROW Community Garden in Cape Town, providing food and income for local families. Other volunteering included practical support for Oasis Recycling Unit in Claremont and contributing to a school renovation project in Swellendam. Another volunteering case includes teaching at a Khayelitsha Community School, leading classroom sessions serving one of Cape Town’s most under-resourced communities.

Grew a YouTube channel to 70,000 subscribers through self-directed research and storytelling. This venture allowed refined skills in independent research, scriptwriting, animation, and translating dense, complex topics into engaging video essays.

An easy-going and collaborative person with a constant eagerness to gain new knowledge and skills. Both a creative and critical thinker, with a fascination for problem solving and the arts. Effective and confident public speaker. Holds an understanding of audience analysis and engaging with criticism. Record of working across cultures, taking initiative, and delivering – in a laborious environment, a committee role, or a classroom. Enthusiastic about music and the arts.

Psalm 34:2 (NIV)