Collaboratory Researcher Profiles
Project Title: Supporting South-Asian children’s health and wellbeing in Leicester families by investigating sleep priorities.
What were you doing before starting this PhD?
Before beginning this PhD, I completed a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and a MSc in Health Psychology. Alongside my academic training, I worked professionally as an Assistant Psychologist in a social, emotional, mental health school and residential children’s home. I also had experience working as a Recovery Worker in substance use.
What motivated you to apply for this specific PhD project?
My motivation comes from both personal and professional experience. Growing up as a South Asian in London, I often felt underrepresented, but living in Leicester has helped me better understand and appreciate my cultural identity. Alongside this, my work with children and young people has shown me the significant impact sleep has on their health and wellbeing. This project brings together my passion for supporting children, improving health outcomes, and working with South Asian communities, making it a particularly meaningful opportunity for me.
What difference do you hope to make in Leicester through this research?
Through completing this research, I hope to improve the healthcare advice that South Asian families receive from health care professionals. It is important that healthcare services understand that nuances in South Asian families affect the way a family lives compared to families of different backgrounds. Therefore, it is important that South Asian families received advice tailored to their needs and their child’s needs to support their overall health and wellbeing.
What do you hope to be doing in 5 years’ time?
After completing this PhD, I would like to explore my options in academia. I hope to be travelling to conferences around the world and networking with other professionals. I would also like to explore becoming a University Lecturer because this would allow me to continue doing research while teaching the next generation. Alternatively, I may revisit the prospect of applying for the Health Psychology Doctorate or the DClinPsy. Personally, I hope to be happy and healthy.