Athenkosi Fani is a communications and social impact strategist, junior researcher, and youth development leader. He is a Junior Researcher at the University of Cape Town’s Children’s Institute (ICCPR programme), focusing on child rights, social protection, unemployment, and structural inequality. He is also pursuing a Master of Development Studies at the University of the Western Cape.He grew up in orphanage and child care homes in the Eastern Cape, shaping his commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice. His lived experience informs his research and advocacy on vulnerable communities and youth empowerment.He is currently serving as a Council Member of the International Care Leavers Council, contributing to global youth and care reform discussions.
He is also the founder of the Boniswa LGBTQI Foundation and LGBTQIRISE Campaign, leading advocacy on inclusion and youth empowerment. He has worked at the Eleanor Roosevelt Centre in United States of America in New York.