Welcome
to A. C. Fischer Consulting
Hello!
I am Ayanda, a social researcher brought up in Gugulethu, Cape Town, passionate about promoting girls' and women's education, especially in STEM fields.
Through my work, I aim to create opportunities that enable young women to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
Thank you for visiting my website. I hope that together, we can drive positive change in our communities.
Ayanda Fischer, Ph. D
Meet Ayanda
I am passionate about qualitative research and have transcribed over 70 hours of raw interview recordings.
My experience includes conducting one-on-one and focus-group interviews, carrying out survey questionnaires across urban and semi-rural areas in the Western Cape, and engaging with diverse cultural backgrounds including informal settlement dwellers, business executives, and scholars.
I am dedicated to maintaining high standards of qualitative research practices. Doing this work is about engaging with people in their communities to understand and interpret their world as they experience it.
QUALIFICATIONS & CERTIFICATES • DPhil Civ. Eng., Transport Studies (2024) • MPhil in Energy and Development Studies (2016) • BSoc Sci (HONS) in Social Development (2013) • BSoc Sci in Industrial Sociology and Social Development (2012) CERTIFICATES • A1 AND B1 German Language Certificates (Goethe Institut, Cape Town) • Peer Counselling Certificate from LifeLine • 1-year long Volunteer Programme Certificate (Germany)
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS • Conference Presenter at the first-ever African Transport Research Conference (ATRC), March 2024 • Selected as a Peer Reviewer for paper submissions to the Southern African Transport Conference (SATC), 2019 • Presented at the IntaLink Workshop (2018) focusing on equity in transportation accessibility • Department of Science & Technology (DST)/ National Research Foundation (NRF) Intern Researcher at the Energy Research Centre (UCT), 2017 • Guest-lecturer in a first-year Civil Engineering Course (CIV1005W) at UCT in 2016 and 2017, contributing to discussions on "informal settlement upgrading" • Coordinated a Master Class on Transportation Justice for industry in 2017 • Represented UCT in the Mobilize Summit in Yichang, China, geared for researchers and practitioners in the field of sustainable transportation, (2016) • Represented UCT in a Provincial and National Youth Road Safety Summit, (2016) • Exhibited research at the Department of Engineering and the Built Environment (EBE) Research Expo, UCT, (2015) • Attendee at a “Women in Science” evening event as a guest to Professor Phakeng (former Vice Chancellor at the University of Cape Town) (2017)
AWARDS • Awarded a Department of Transport (DOT) partial scholarship towards doctoral studies for the years 2022 and 2023 • Awarded partial funding towards doctoral studies from the Cape Town Property Development Forum in 2018 • Awarded a Department of Science and Technology (DST, now DSI) / National Research Foundation (NRF) Doctoral Scholarship for the years 2017 and 2018 • DST/NRF Scholarship Recipient for Master’s Studies, from 2014 to 2015. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit. • Awarded the UCT Council Honours Merit Scholarship for post-graduate studies in 2013
Qualitative Research Services
As a social scientist, I help businesses thrive by providing unparalleled insights into consumer behaviour and market dynamics. Partner with me to unlock the full potential of your business through the power of qualitative research.
My Approach
I specialise in extracting valuable insights from verbal, non-numerical data using qualitative data analysis techniques. My comprehensive approach includes: • Qualitative Research Methods: I utilise rigorous qualitative research methods to conduct thorough investigations, providing deep business insights that can shape strategic decisions. • Data Analytics: I excel in analysing verbal, non-numerical data, turning complex information into actionable insights that empower businesses to understand and meet consumer needs effectively. I use software such as Atlas.ti, and (IBM) SPSS. • Qualitative Data Software: By employing the latest qualitative data software, I ensure that interview data is meticulously cleaned and analysed, allowing for accurate and reliable results. • Face-to-Face Interviewing Techniques: My expertise in face-to-face interviewing techniques enables me to gather rich, detailed information directly from consumers, providing an authentic understanding of their perspectives. • Focus Group Discussions: I conduct focus group discussions to capture diverse viewpoints, fostering a comprehensive understanding of consumer behaviour and market trends. • Transcribing and Thematic Analysis: I meticulously transcribe verbatim interview data and apply thematic data analysis to identify key themes and patterns. These insights are crucial for informing business decisions and strategies.
My Expertise
My advanced research skills and writing capabilities, coupled with a profound understanding of social dynamics and human behaviour, are essential for conducting high-quality qualitative research. I bring advanced academic credentials to the table: • MPhil in Energy & Development Studies, 2016 (Department of Mechanical Engineering, UCT) • DPhil in Civil Engineering, 2024 (Transport Studies)
Why Choose A.C. Fischer Consulting
• Expertise in Qualitative Research: With a strong foundation in social sciences and STEM, I bring a unique blend of skills to my research processes. • Cutting-Edge Data Analytics: My use of advanced qualitative data software ensures precise and insightful analysis. • Proven Techniques: My face-to-face interviewing and focus group discussion techniques are designed to elicit genuine and detailed responses. • Actionable Insights: Through thematic data analysis, I provide actionable insights that directly inform and enhance business strategies.
Current Projects
First Publication
A Story About the Human Spirit!
This book delves into the life of a township youth navigating the highs and lows of growing up amidst the social and political upheavals of a South African township. It's a poignant tale of resilience and transformation, capturing the journey of a diamond in the rough whose strength and potential emerge from the most unexpected places, proving that true change often comes from within.
Mini Docu-series
Seeking Visionary Funders and Collaborators for a Captivating Mini Docu-Series!
I am excited to announce the development of a mini docu-series, that is partly inspired by my doctoral thesis which highlights the significance of place-based mobility services within the 'amaphela-operated area'. You can find my doctoral thesis here: https://lib.uct.ac.za/all-library-resources/theses-dissertations With a script in progress and a talented team of filmmakers on board, this project aims to shed light on the genesis of the 16-seater motor vehicle as an integral part, completing the quintessential urban township, youth street style aesthetic across South Africa. I am now seeking visionary funders to help bring this compelling narrative to life. The project seeks production costs and post-production support. Your investment will not only support a thought-provoking creative venture but also grant you a stake in a project that will inspire and educate. Join me on this incredible journey and be part of something truly impactful.
My First Publication
I am excited to announce the upcoming launch of my debut book. I invite you to pre-register below to be the first to know about the release date, launch events, special offers, and other exciting news. Sign up now and join this exciting journey!
Shop My Book
BOOK RELEASE DATE TBC: To get your copy of 'Rough Cuts From The Native Yard' delivered to your door once it is released, hit the button below.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Services
Get in touch if you would like my research services, to book me as a speaker or to host your next event. Also, reach out to collaborate on a media project.
Guest Speaker / Host
My journey from a challenging background in Gugulethu to earning a PhD from Africa’s top university resonates deeply with audiences. Through storytelling, I am a compelling speaker and my most authentic.
Qualitative Research
With experience in qualitative research, my approach allows a nuanced understanding of social issues, particularly in the context of urban and semi-rural communities.
Podcast / Voice Over Work
I am fluent in isiXhosa, English, German and Afrikaans. See an example of my podcasting below, and visit my YouTube channel for more.