Matšeliso Thobei

My name is Matšeliso Thobei also known as Tshedy, and I graduated from TU Dublin in 2018 with an MSc in Spatial Planning. That experience changed the trajectory of my career and my life.

Before coming to Dublin, I had already spent over a decade as a Physical Planner in Lesotho. I was working at the district level, processing applications and contributing to local development plans. But I knew there was more I could offer and more I could learn. The opportunity to study abroad came through Action Ireland Trust and Fingal County Council, and it opened my eyes to how planning can be done differently. I returned to Lesotho with new knowledge, greater confidence, and a promotion to Physical Planner. Today, I am proud to contribute to Lesotho's National Spatial Development Framework, a project that will shape the future of our country.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family, whether it is attending social events or simply catching up. I am also an active contributor to OpenStreetMap, which fulfils me because I know I am helping to fill spatial data gaps that benefit planning and development in Lesotho. To stay healthy and energised, I also do aerobics.

My interest in planning began during my undergraduate studies in Urban and Regional Planning at the National University of Lesotho. I became fascinated by how physical spaces influence people's lives where they live, work, and access services. I saw how poorly planned settlements created challenges for communities, and I wanted to be part of the solution. Over time, my passion grew as I worked on the ground, witnessing the real impact that thoughtful planning can have on people's daily lives.

I was offered an incredible opportunity through Action Ireland Trust and Fingal County Council to strengthen my planning knowledge and skills. The programme was designed to build capacity in Lesotho planners, and I saw it as a chance to learn from a well-established planning system. At the time, I was also ranked as the number one mapper in Lesotho, which gave me a competitive edge during the interview process. I was successfully selected and enrolled at TU Dublin. I chose the MSc in Spatial Planning because it offered a comprehensive curriculum that would equip me with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to bring back to Lesotho.

What I loved most about Ireland was its accessibility and well developed infrastructure. The transport options made it easy to explore, and I was able to visit all counties a goal I set for myself during my time there. I am especially grateful to the staff at Fingal County Council, who suggested wonderful places to visit and even drove us around on weekends, making me feel welcomed and supported. What I missed most about home was the sunny and warm weather, as Ireland is often wet and cold, but the warmth of the people more than made up for it.

My internship at Fingal County Council was eye opening. It taught me that planning decisions must be informed by clear legislation and up-to-date guidelines. Ireland's planning system is supported by regularly updated frameworks that make decision-making consistent and transparent. I have carried this lesson with me in Lesotho, many planning decisions remain discretionary because guidelines are not always available or current. This experience reinforced my commitment to evidence-based, legally compliant planning and has motivated me to advocate for better planning frameworks in Lesotho.

To be honest, when I started my dissertation, I thought it was simply a requirement to complete my degree. However, as I conducted my research, reviewed literature, and interviewed practitioners, I gained a much deeper understanding of what a good planning system should look like. My supervisor, Pawl Lawler, guided me through the process and helped me see the value of comparative analysis. Today, that research directly informs my work as I contribute to Lesotho's planning frameworks, drawing on lessons from the Irish system.

My time at TU Dublin gave me a new level of confidence and a broader perspective on what is possible in planning. I returned to Lesotho with a fresh mindset, ready to take on bigger challenges. The exposure to Ireland planning systems, the rigorous academic training, and the practical experience from my internship all contributed to my professional growth. I told myself that the sky was the limit, and I was determined to apply everything I had learned. I believe the knowledge and confidence I gained at TU Dublin gave me a competitive edge during the interview process and set me apart from other candidates. I am deeply grateful for the doors it opened for me.

The National Spatial Development Framework (NSDF) is a flagship project that will guide how Lesotho develops over the coming years. It provides a spatial vision for the country, identifying key areas for investment and growth while ensuring that land use is sustainable and equitable. The framework covers all ten districts and integrates multiple sectors, including infrastructure, economic development, and environmental management. Once implemented, it will help ensure that communities across Lesotho have access to planned, well-serviced settlements and economic opportunities. It is a roadmap for building a more organised, resilient, and inclusive Lesotho.

My advice is simple, take the leap. Studying abroad is not just about earning a qualification it is about expanding your horizons, building confidence, and gaining perspectives that will shape your entire career. It can be challenging, especially being far from home and family, but the growth you experience is invaluable. I would also encourage others to embrace every opportunity whether it is an internship, networking, or simply exploring your new environment. These experiences will shape you in ways you cannot predict. Most importantly, never underestimate the power of your own story; the skills and knowledge you gain abroad can transform not only your career but also your community when you return home.

One thing about Ireland that you still miss?

The long summer evenings. I loved going to bed while it was still bright outside something we don't experience in Lesotho. Ireland's nights are also economically and socially active year-round, unlike Lesotho where the whole country sleeps early.

A favourite place in Lesotho that everyone should visit?

The mountainous regions, especially places with water like 'Maletsunyane Falls and Mohale Dam. The landscape is breathtaking and offers a true appreciation of Lesotho's natural beauty.

If you weren't a planner, what career do you think you would have pursued?

I would have pursued a career as an environmentalist, with a focus on climate change. I am deeply concerned about the impact of climate change on our communities, and I believe the built and natural environments must work together for a sustainable future.