September Reflections: Milestones, Gratitude, and Growth

Hello Readers of Thesis and Toddlers Tales,

Welcome to the latest edition (Part 11), where I reflect on all that September has brought. September is always special—it’s my birth month—but this year, it has been particularly rewarding, filled with milestones and moments of deep gratitude.

Starting Research with Students

After months of preparation, I finally began my interactions with students for my PhD research. From waiting on ethical approval to securing clearance from the State Ministry of Education, the process has required patience and persistence. Now that the new school session has begun, I was able to meet the students for the first time—and I must say, the experience was eye-opening. I am looking forward to the months ahead, where I hope to learn even more from their perspectives.

Youth Power Summit in New York

A significant highlight this September was hosting a session at the Youth Power Summit in New York, which took place alongside the Summit of the Future. My session on "Digital Safety Reimagined: Cutting-Edge Innovations to Combat Online GBV brought together young people and allies to discuss their experiences with online harms, highlight ongoing initiatives, and generate actionable ideas to tackle the issue.

During the summit, I consulted with over 30 young people through group discussions, where they shared their insights and feedback on online harms and what they believe should be prioritized to address online gender-based violence. The conversations also focused on the key messages they want policymakers to hear ahead of the First-Ever Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogotá this November.

For more reflections and updates from the Youth Power Summit, feel free to check out my Instagram, where I have been sharing my experiences and reflections from the summit.

Gratitude for My Support System

Reflecting on this month, I am deeply grateful to the many people who continue to support me on this journey.

First, my husband. His support has been unwavering from the very beginning when I told him, on our first date no less, that earning a PhD was one of my life goals. Over the years, he has understood my drive to not only pursue this academic goal but to continue my advocacy work as well. For that, I am incredibly thankful.

I am also grateful for my family—my village—who have always been there to help with my daughter. Knowing that she is cared for by people who love her makes it possible for me to focus on this important work, and I am thankful beyond words for their presence in our lives.

My supervisors, too, deserve acknowledgment for their understanding and support throughout this PhD process. Their guidance has been invaluable, and I appreciate how they continue to encourage my growth.

Finally, a special thanks to the team at Restless Development and Fondation Botnar for making my participation at the Youth Power Summit not only possible but stress-free. Their commitment to supporting young leaders is something I truly admire, and I encourage you to connect with their work.

Turning 29 and Reflecting

This month, I also celebrated my 29th birthday, a time to reflect on the journey so far. Combining motherhood with a PhD and advocacy work is no small feat, and it comes with moments of doubt—wondering if I’m giving enough to each role. What helps me, though, is returning to one simple question: "Are you happy?"

This September, the answer is yes. I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way and for the incredible people who support me. As I look ahead to the coming months, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.

Thank you for following along on this journey with me. Until next time, I wish you all continued growth, reflection, and happiness.

With loads of love,

A young mom doing PhD

P.S Drop a comment if you have found this newsletter helpful and suggest other PhD and motherhood-related topics you may be looking forward to reading. Thank you.

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