Amy Revello: Nurturing a Passion for Anthropology at Nikela

Amy Revello, a bright and driven young professional hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, has embarked on a captivating journey in the world of research and development with Nikela, a company known for its forward-thinking approach to development research. In this article, we'll delve into Amy's background, her academic pursuits, and her experiences at Nikela.

Amy's roots lie in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, where she grew up with her parents and sister. Her academic journey took off at Holy Rosary School, where she matriculated in 2017. With a thirst for knowledge and a keen interest in understanding the intricacies of human behaviour and society, Amy enrolled at the University of Pretoria in 2018 to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree. Here, she had the opportunity to explore the realms of Psychology and Anthropology, disciplines that captivated her intellectual curiosity.

In 2020, Amy successfully completed her undergraduate studies, but her passion for Anthropology only continued to grow stronger. She decided to specialise in Anthropology for her postgraduate studies, taking on the challenges of honours and later, her master's degree.

Amy's choice to major in Anthropology was no arbitrary decision. She was drawn to this lesser-known branch of the social sciences because it offered a unique perspective on understanding the world. Anthropology, she believes, equips individuals with the essential skills to observe and comprehend the complexities of society in a fresh and relevant manner.

Amy's academic journey eventually led her to #Nikela, where she found an environment that resonated with her interests and ambitions. The decision to apply for a position at Nikela was a natural one for Amy, as it provided her with an opportunity to work in the realm of research—a domain she deeply enjoys. What caught her attention about the company was its commitment to future-focused solutions for development in an ever-evolving landscape. This approach aligned perfectly with her own forward-thinking perspective on development research.

During her time at #Nikela, Amy has had the privilege of participating in various projects, some in leadership roles and others as a valuable team member. One project that stands out for her is the Impact Evaluation for two programmes funded and facilitated by the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) between 2018 and 2020. These programmes focussed on equipping youth with necessary skills to thrive in the wholesale and retail sector – one programme focussed on ensuring that youth from rural areas in Mpumalanga could start and run their own businesses, while the other targeted individuals from the Western Cape Province who did not finish Matric. This evaluation assessed the projects' impact, effectiveness, and efficiency. Amy relished the opportunity to delve deep into these projects, engage with stakeholders, and provide recommendations for the future—an experience she found immensely rewarding.

Amy's enthusiasm for her work at Nikela is palpable when she talks about the exposure to different sectors through their projects. She appreciates the continuous learning and growth opportunities that come with the territory. At Nikela, every day brings new challenges and insights, making the work exciting and intellectually stimulating.

Outside of her professional life, Amy revels in activities that provide her with a sense of creativity. She finds solace in the pages of books and enjoys the art of creating collages.

It's worth noting that Amy possesses a remarkably sunny and warm personality. Her cheerful disposition and approachable nature make her a joy to work with and be around. She radiates positivity and encourages collaboration, fostering a sense of camaraderie within the team.

While Amy may not have a specific motto, the adage "if you fail to plan, you plan to fail," which she learned in primary school, has stayed with her. It reflects her commitment to meticulous preparation and a strong work ethic.

Amy's journey to Nikela is a testament to the power of passion and curiosity. Her dedication and her drive to make a difference in the world through research and development showcase her as a promising young professional with a bright future. As she continues her journey, it's clear that Amy's unwavering commitment to learning, growing, and contributing to positive change will continue to shape her path and inspire those around her. Nikela is indeed fortunate to have Amy as part of its dynamic team, and her future endeavours are bound to be nothing short of remarkable.