Nexus

The Impact of Opportunity: Reflections of a TASA 2024 Bursary Recipient by Septrin Calamba, PhD Candidate, Deakin University.

My research focuses on young people in Mindanao, a region deeply affected by intractable conflict. I examine how their experiences and exposure to conflict shape them as political actors and as a generation. My work explores their everyday politics, including everyday peace practices and aspirations, as they navigate challenges and envision futures for themselves, their communities, and the nation. I am currently in the data analysis stage, aiming to complete my thesis by August 2025. Through this research, I aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the agency and persistence of young people in conflict and postconflict settings.

Attending The Australian Sociological Association (TASA) 2024 Conference at Curtin University in Perth was an incredibly enriching experience. This was my second TASA conference, following my first in 2022 during the initial year of my PhD. Returning to the TASA conference this year provided a fantastic opportunity to present the progress of my research.

The conference was a fantastic experience and has become a highlight of my academic calendar. This year, I was grateful to receive valuable feedback from colleagues and peers, which will help refine my work. Additionally, engaging with diverse sessions and networking with scholars offered fresh perspectives on sociological methods, theoretical frameworks, and pressing issues warranting further exploration. A key highlight was the discussions on youth-related issues in Australia and other contexts, which strongly resonated with my thesis and research interests.

Receiving the Postgraduate Bursary was instrumental in enabling me to attend the TASA conference. As a postgraduate student, financial constraints can often limit opportunities for exposure and academic engagement. The bursary significantly alleviated this burden, allowing me to participate in the conference without financial stress. I hope more postgraduate students will receive this grant at future TASA conferences.

This support enhanced my research through the insights and feedback I gained and bolstered my confidence as an emerging scholar. The bursary has been pivotal in advancing my academic journey, enabling me to focus on building connections, refining my work, and embracing the vibrant sociological community that TASA fosters.