20 Questions with Nicole Chetty

1. What is your role at GPI and what excites you the most about it?
I am a project coordinator on the ParentApp for Teens project in Tanzania. What excites me most about working on this incredible project (with my even more incredible team) is that we are making an actual impact on people’s lives. That excites me so much!

2. Where are you based?
Cape Town, South Africa 🙂

3. What has been the most rewarding part of your work?
This would be very similar to the answer to the first question - seeing first-hand how lives are changed, violence reduced, parenting improved, symptoms of depression and anxiety decreased. It’s all so rewarding!

4. What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your role (or previous roles), and how have you overcome them?
Working across multiple projects has been quite tricky. Balancing several projects simultaneously requires careful prioritisation and time management. I’ve overcome this by using project management tools, setting clear deadlines, and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. I also had to learn the very important skill of saying no.

5. What is the topic of your research?
I’m currently doing my MPhil in public mental health at UCT, my topic is Investigating caregiver mental health and user engagement during a digital parenting intervention in Tanzania with caregivers of teens.

6. What’s one thing you’ve learned through your research that has changed the way you think about child development or parenting?
Understanding the importance of holistic approaches in parenting interventions — addressing caregiver mental health not only improves their well-being but creates a healthier environment for children to thrive. It underscores the interconnectedness of family dynamics and the need for multi-layered support systems.

7. What inspired you to pursue a career in psychology and research?
What inspired me to pursue a career in psychology and research is a deep curiosity about human behavior and the desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives, particularly in the realm of child development. I’ve always been fascinated by how early experiences shape individuals and how psychology can be used to address societal challenges. Research, in particular, offers the opportunity to contribute evidence-based solutions to real-world problems, especially in underserved populations. Working towards preventing violence against children and improving child well-being has been a driving force, and the potential to create meaningful change through knowledge and intervention is incredibly motivating.

8. What’s a childhood lie or myth that you believed for way too long?
Gum stays in your stomach for seven years if you swallow it - and I tell my kids this too now!

9. What was your favourite game to play as a child, and do you still enjoy it now?
Blind Man's Buff was one of my favourites when I was really little, as I grew up I enjoyed more strategic games like chess and Settlers of Catan - which I still enjoy today!

10. What’s one thing on your bucket list that you’re determined to check off soon?
Paragliding! I’ve booked it for October and I’m so excited.

11. If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be?
If I could instantly master any skill, I think it would be the ability to speak multiple languages fluently. It would open up so many doors for deeper cultural immersion, more meaningful connections with people around the world, and the ability to engage in global issues more effectively. Plus, I’ve always admired the way language can shape thought and communication.

12. If you had a free year to travel - all expenses paid - where would your top destinations be?
Ooh, I think Japan is at the top of my list right now. And then I’d probably find one of those cruise ships that do trips around the world and go to as many places as I can!

13. What’s your idea of a perfect weekend?
My idea of a perfect weekend would be a mix of relaxation, adventure, good food and good company. I would start each morning with a nice triple espresso, always have a good book nearby, lots of music, followed by a day of exploring nature—whether it’s hiking, walking by the beach, or a picnic in the park. The evenings would be spent with loved ones, enjoying a nice dinner and meaningful conversations. In a perfect world, I’d get both my kids in bed and asleep right after dinner, and then have some down time.

14. Do you consider yourself a risk-taker or someone who plays it safe?
I’d say I’m more of a strategic thinker who enjoys assessing risks and rewards rather than being purely a risk-taker or someone who plays it completely safe. I like to weigh options, consider potential outcomes, and make informed decisions based on the situation. Trying to find the right balance between innovation and caution.

15. Tea or coffee?
Coffee. I would not survive without caffeine.

16. Chocolate or vanilla?
Both! I like the taste of chocolate more, but I’d choose a vanilla scent over anything else.

17. Adventure trip or relaxing vacation?
It depends on the mood I’m in and what I'm looking for at the time! An adventure trip can be exhilarating and full of new experiences, like hiking, exploring new cultures, or trying exciting activities. On the other hand, a relaxing vacation—whether lounging on a beach, soaking in a spa, or enjoying a cozy cabin—can be incredibly refreshing and rejuvenating. I think a mix of both would be ideal.

18. Books or movies?
Definitely books! I think I only ever watch movies that are about books.

19. Comedy or drama?
I think I am more into comedies. The Office and Parks and Rec are firm favourites.

20. What’s a personal or professional goal you’re excited to work towards in the near future?
I aim to complete my MPhil this year, and I’m also keen on deepening my expertise in data analysis and expanding my skills in managing complex research projects.