Benjy is an economist, musician, researcher, and producer from Cape Town. He completed his honours degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 2019, where his thesis focused on the metaphysics and political economy of digital identity.  
 
After studying, Benjy worked for four years as a consultant in the public sector, focussing on institutional development, public policy, and the reform and turnaround of public entities. In 2024, he began providing research and organising support for social movements around Cape Town, working for an independent campaign during the 2024 National Elections, and with #YouthInAction and the Cape Town Disability Activist Forum thereafter.  
 
Benjy is also an active musician, releasing his music under the digital alter ego Francis Soal. In addition to performing his own material, he plays keyboards for The Rudimentals, as well as other studio and live projects. In 2019 he co-founded Concept Records, an independent recording studio and creative community which has recorded multiple award-winning albums and produced several documentaries. Aside from their audio production work, Concept Records also hosts regular discussion about the local music scene and produces Big Little Concepts, a YouTube channel that features live performances of original music by local artists.  
 
In 2025 Benjy will study an MPhil in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at UCT. His research interest is in South Africa’s electoral system and its impact on the viability of independent candidacy at the provincial and national level.