My thesis explores the political economy of sovereign credit ratings in South Africa. I try to uncover how the rating judgements of agencies like Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings influence the economic development possibilities of sovereign governments. Central to this focus is an analysis of the assumptions, theories and models these agencies use to rate sovereign default risk. To this end, I have done extensive research into the emergence of risk modelling in global finance, specifically as it relates to emerging markets. My master's degree looked at the global governance of agricultural land in Africa. I have a comprehensive grasp of critical international relations theory, rural development discourses, international development relations, power relations influencing land access and the importance of subsistence farming for household food security in the majority of countrysides in sub-Saharan Africa. Alternatively, I also have experience in a variety of communication and public relations positions while being selected as editor of a student subject journal, POLS as well as layout artist of another local community journal, the Brick Rubrick. I was also selected as a project leader for the public relations campaign of a local fast-food restaurant, where I acquired skills in planning events, developing and managing organisational programs and communication with a diverse group of people. During my occupation of these positions, I created and oversaw the writing of media releases, stories and journal articles and ensured that our social media communication strategy was implemented.