UWC Future Researchers | Third Edition

My advice to any aspiring researcher would be not to fear being criticised or rejected. The criticism or rejection is not about you but the content of the paper.

Give us a brief overview of the research you’ve conducted so far?

Over the past three years, I have researched various aspects of social cohesion, namely trust, sense of belonging, and socio-spatial justice. Consequently, I have published four articles. I’ve also conducted research on Early Childhood Development (ECD) specifically on ECD institutionalisation in local government. This research was included in a chapter of the book, “Child in Africa.”

Why did you apply for the DTS (Developing The Scholar) programme?

I applied for the ‘Developing The Scholar’programme to strengthen my capacity to conduct research, publish articles, and participate in academic conferences. It was my view that this programme would enable me to become a well-rounded scholar.

How has the funding helped you with your research?

The funding paid for my participation at an international conference namely, theInternational Research Society for PublicManagement (IRSPM) in New Zealand. This funding was useful because, as a developing scholar, I did not have financial resources in research fund.

What has kept you going during your research process?

The DTS programme provided the necessaryknowledge as well as emotional support.In particular, the training programmes andmentorships became the pillars that sustainedmy active participation in research. My family,specifically my husband, is my pillar ofstrength. He pushes me to get out of mycomfort zone.

What personal development have you experienced through this process?

One of the objectives of the DTS programme was personal development. The module on personal development strengthened my presentation skills. Over the past three years, I have presented papers at local and international conferences. Equally, the programme assisted in understanding and knowing myself better. The module on personal development enhanced my decision-making skills and emotional intelligence. I am now able to brand and market myself appropriately within the academic and research community. Thus, I managed to develop enduring and transformative partnerships with fellow professionals.

Who is/are your biggest inspiration(s)/ what inspires you?

I am inspired by black women who manage to succeed against the odds. My supervisor, ProfNicolette Roman, and mentor Prof MichelleEsua are successful and well-rounded scholars in their own right.

What is the funniest/scariest or most embarrassing or the best thing that has happened to you as a researcher so far?

The best that has happened was when I received feedback from the reviewers who accepted my paper with corrections in March 2020. It was the best feeling after being rejected twice.

Which one of your academic articles was the most challenging to write?

One of the most challenging papers was titled, “The role of Local Government in Promoting a Sense of Belonging as an Aspect of Social Cohesion.” The stressful part was when the editor kept returning the paper for correction sand, the time frame was tight.

What lessons can you share with an aspiring researcher/post-grad student?

My advice to any aspiring researcher would be not to fear being criticised or rejected. The criticism or rejection is not about you but the content of the paper. Also, they must believe in their views and opinions. The world is interested in learning about their ideas and opinions.

What impact did COVID-19 have on your work?

COVID-19 made it difficult for me to meet my collaborators face-to-face. Due to the lockdown restrictions, I was also unable to attend conferences. Although I presented for two conferences earlier this year, doing so online doesn't exude the same excitement, and I can’t wait for us to go back to normal.

What practical impact do you believe your research will bring?

My research contributes towards knowing andunderstanding the concepts of social-spatialjustice, sense of belonging, social cohesion, andfinding solutions to these issues.

What does the future hold for you once you complete your Ph.D.?

After completing my Ph.D., I plan to be partof the community of scholars as a roundedconscious, and socially active scholar.