My Resume - Data Analyst Portfolio

About Me.

Hi, I'm Cassandra Mzola — an Environmental Science graduate turned Data & Insights Analyst, passionate about using data to build a more sustainable and equitable world.

My journey started at the University of the Western Cape, where I combined my academic background with leadership, science communication, and tech-driven innovation. Over the years, I’ve gained experience in social media strategy, public engagement, data analytics, environmental management, and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting.

I’ve completed certifications in Google Data Analytics, ISO 14001:2015 EMS, and ESG Fundamentals, and sharpened my skills through virtual internships with KPMG and Accenture, building real-world solutions using Python, SQL, and business intelligence tools.

Today, I’m working at SARAO as a Science Engagement Intern through SAASTA’s NYS programme, where I also mentor under an Environmental Specialist and actively contribute to science-society bridging initiatives. I’m developing an interactive platform to make science more accessible and founded Earth Connect, a digital space teaching sustainability in relatable, practical terms.

I believe data can drive meaningful change — especially when it meets environmental and social purpose. Welcome to my portfolio.

Education

2018-2021 | Graduated 2022

BSc Environmental & Water Sci
University of the Western Cape

Core focus: Environmental sustainability, water resource management, ecology, and environmental systems.
Actively involved in student development, peer mentorship, and university choir leadership.

Professional Development

Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate

Coursera
Issued Nov 2023

ISO 14001:2015 - EMS

Alison
Issued March 2023

Introduction to ESG

Corporate Finance Institute
Issued Jan 2024

Data cleaning, analysis, visualization, SQL, R programming, and data-driven decision-making.

Environmental impact assessment, EMS frameworks, compliance, and sustainability best practices.

ESG frameworks, sustainability reporting, stakeholder analysis, and responsible investing.

Professional Experience

05/2024 - 04/2025

Science Engagement Intern

Supported science communication and outreach programs to promote public engagement with radio astronomy and STEM education across South Africa.
Collaborated on national exhibitions, community engagement events, and content development for both digital and in-person audiences.
Proactively sought mentorship with SARAO’s Environmental Specialist to apply academic background in Environmental and Water Sciences.
Gained practical knowledge in environmental compliance and reporting—developed Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), deepened understanding of environmental regulations, and supported internal sustainability initiatives.
Skills Gained: Science communication, public engagement, environmental compliance, EMP writing, stakeholder communication, mentorship, sustainability integration, teamwork.

11/2023 - 11/2023

Virtual Data Analytics Intern

Data Cleaning & Modeling: Processed and structured large datasets to prepare them for analysis, ensuring data integrity and consistency.
Trend Analysis & Insights: Conducted exploratory data analysis to uncover trends in social media content engagement, providing actionable insights for strategic decisions.
Presentation & Communication: Created and presented a comprehensive PowerPoint deck summarizing findings and recommendations to internal stakeholders.
Skills Gained: Data cleaning, data modeling, Excel, PowerPoint, data storytelling, stakeholder communication.

10/2023 - 11/2023

Virtual Data Analytics Consultant

Data Quality Assessment: Evaluated and ensured the completeness and accuracy of customer and transaction datasets, identifying and addressing data quality issues.
Customer Segmentation: Analyzed customer demographics and transaction data to identify high-value customer segments, providing insights to inform targeted marketing strategies.
Data Visualization & Reporting: Developed interactive dashboards and visualizations using Tableau to present data insights, facilitating data-driven decision-making.
Skills Gained: Data cleaning, customer segmentation, Tableau, data visualization, analytical thinking, communication.

03/2019 - 07/2019

Aid to Executive Convener: Admin & Associate Chair for Social Media & PR

Collaborated with the Executive Convener to oversee administrative tasks and ensure smooth conference operations.
Led the development and execution of a comprehensive social media and public relations strategy for the "Greening the Fourth Industrial Revolution" conference.
Managed content creation and distribution across various platforms, enhancing event visibility and engagement.
Coordinated with internal and external stakeholders to promote the conference's themes and objectives.
Assisted in post-conference communications to maintain momentum and foster ongoing discussions on sustainability and the 4IR.
Skills Gained: Event coordination and logistics management, Strategic communication and public relations, Digital content creation and social media management, Stakeholder engagement and partnership building, Project management and administrative support

01-02/2019 - 2021

Peer Facilitator

Facilitated orientation sessions and workshops during the first two months to help first-year students transition smoothly to university life.
Provided ongoing mentorship and academic guidance to students throughout their first year, fostering personal growth and academic success.
Supported students in navigating campus resources, study techniques, and social integration.
Promoted an inclusive, supportive environment to enhance student retention and engagement.
Skills Gained: Mentorship, communication, public speaking, leadership, empathy, problem-solving, student engagement.

06/2018 - 01/2021

Social Media Manager & Deputy Secretary

Proposed, created, and managed the choir’s social media presence, increasing visibility and engagement.
Developed content strategies and regularly posted to platforms to showcase the choir’s history and performances.
Served as Deputy Secretary (2018/2019 term), assisting with meeting minutes, coordination, and communication.
Fostered community engagement and helped preserve the choir’s rich cultural legacy online.
Skills Gained: Social media management, content creation, communication, leadership, event coordination, teamwork.

Entrepreneurship & Leadership

Nov 2023 - March 2024

JAMII Femmes Program - Participant

Women in Africa, The Coca-Cola Foundation & Honoris United Universities

Selected for a competitive program aimed at empowering African women entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Completed a comprehensive digital training covering behavioral intelligence, critical thinking, creativity, design thinking, communication, and entrepreneurship.
Engaged in a bootcamp facilitated by Honoris United Universities, focusing on developing innovative business solutions aligned with sustainable development goals.
Developed and presented a business idea addressing environmental sustainability challenges; while not selected for the final prize, received a certificate of participation in March 2024.MSME Africa+1Honoris United Universities+1 wia-philanthropy.com

Skills Gained: Entrepreneurship, design thinking, critical thinking, communication, leadership, innovation, sustainability.

July 2024 - Nov 2024

BRICS Women's Startup Contest - Participant

Selected to pitch a sustainability-focused startup concept, originally developed during the JAMII Femmes Program, at the BRICS Women’s Startup Contest 2024.
Presented an evolving business model designed to improve public understanding of sustainability through accessible digital platforms.
Competed alongside emerging women entrepreneurs from BRICS nations, sharing ideas on innovation, impact, and cross-border collaboration.
Earned a Certificate of Participation in November 2024.

Skills Gained: Pitch development, startup strategy, international collaboration, public speaking, innovation, entrepreneurial resilience.

May 2024- Present

Developer
Online Interactive Platform

Conceptualized and initiated the development of an online interactive platform aimed at enhancing public engagement with scientific research, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broader audience.
Presented the initial concept at the Communicating Discovery Science International Symposium held in Stellenbosch, South Africa, from 18–20 November 2024. The symposium focused on effective public engagement strategies for discovery science.
Showcased the developing platform at the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) Conference and General Assembly 2025, held from 23–28 March 2025 at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Gauteng. The conference brought together professionals to discuss advancements in astronomy and science communication across Africa.

Collaborated with mentors and stakeholders to refine platform features, focusing on user experience, content accessibility, and integration of interactive elements to facilitate science learning.

discoveryscience.co.za+3discoveryscience.co.za+3sams.ac.za+3African Astronomical Society+7conference.afasociety.org+7Space Agenda+7

Jan 2024- Present

Founder

Earth Connect(Social Media Sustainability Education Platform)

Created and manage Earth Connect, a digital platform focused on promoting sustainability and environmental literacy through engaging, jargon-free content.
Design and share informative posts, videos, and visuals that explain environmental concepts, sustainability practices, and the real-world impact of daily decisions.
Foster community awareness and dialogue around topics like climate action, resource use, and sustainable living with the aim of empowering audiences to take informed action.
Tailor messaging to diverse audiences—including youth, urban communities, and non-specialists—bridging the gap between science and society through accessible communication.
Skills Gained: Environmental education, digital content creation, social media strategy, sustainability communication, public engagement, community building.

July 2024 - Present