Junior Researcher at Leyden Academy on Vitality and Ageing
During my studies in Cultural Anthropology and Medical Anthropology, I explored the intersections of health, culture, wellbeing, and identity, which created a strong interest in amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups. This interest now guides my work on projects focusing on the wellbeing of older individuals with a migration background. Together with my supervisor, Nina Conkova, I am involved in initiatives such as Samen tegen Eenzaamheid (Together Against Loneliness), Het Domino-effect (The Domino Effect), and Bruggen Bouwen tussen Generaties (Building Bridges Between Generations). Through these projects, I pursue my passion for fostering a society that looks beyond superficial observations and resists stereotypes. My aim is an inclusive and connected society in which everyone, regardless of background, is heard. Through Nina, I became involved in the ENIEC community.
As a new member this year, I attended the ENIEC Annual Meeting in Nijmegen, my first real introduction to the community. Initially, I was unsure what to expect from both the annual meeting and the ENIEC community itself. I quickly realised, however, that ENIEC is much more than a professional network. It is a space where people share their stories, both professional and personal, fostering genuine connections. The group discussions at the annual meeting particularly highlighted the importance of exchanging ideas across countries and disciplines and collaborating to address ageing and elderly care in an inclusive way.
Being relatively new to the scientific world, I value ENIEC as a community that goes beyond academic exchange. It is a place where personal experiences and reflections are as welcome as scientific insights. Knowing that I can turn to this network for interdisciplinary collaboration on ageing and elderly care is both reassuring and inspiring.
