I can’t believe I really organised & conducted all of this – a three-year, multi-site research project across three countries on three continents, employing three methods. (Three is definitely my magic number, lol!) It’s amazing to see how my proposal, once just a collection of ideas & a plan, has truly come to life.

Since childhood, I have found joy in being surrounded by books.....to step into the role of writer-in-residence- not just anywhere, but at the Library of Africa & the African Diaspora (LOATAD)- is a dream come true.

From the very beginning, UCC offered me an academic home away from home. It was a perfect match. Its proximity to key research sites, its academic depth, & the welcoming spirit of its community made it ideal. I came in search of connection & understanding. What I received was more than I imagined, especially since I hadn’t even known about it properly beforehand.