‘Dynamic and Transformative’ Experience at ISA 2024 in San Francisco

For Nilanjana (Nell) Ganguli, attending the ISA 2024 Conference in San Francisco was more than just an academic exercise—it was a dynamic and transformative experience. As a first-timer at this renowned gathering, Nell was immersed in an environment that buzzed with intellectual energy, where scholars from around the world came together to tackle the pressing challenges of our time. The conference lived up to its reputation for diverse and inclusive programming, offering sessions that spanned the spectrum of international studies—from international security and global governance to human rights and environmental sustainability. But what truly stood out was the opportunity to engage deeply with a community committed to advancing our collective understanding of these interconnected global issues. 

ISA 2024 was particularly meaningful for Nell as it provided a platform to share her research, which focuses on applying an intersectional lens to the health impacts of climate change in Malawi. Her work delves into the sexual and reproductive health resilience of small-scale female fish traders in the Lake Chilwa Basin. This topic is both timely and critical as climate change increasingly threatens vulnerable populations. Using a multi-methodological approach that combines systems thinking with participatory research, Nell aims to bring gender-based intersectional inequities to the forefront of climate change and health research. Presenting the theoretical foundation of this approach at the Climate Change and Health Panel was a highlight of Nell’s ISA experience. Her panel presentation, titled “Bridging Intersectionality and Systems Thinking”, co-authored with Dr. Martin Bunch, Dr. Sarah Flicker and Dr. James Orbinski was part of the Climate Change and Health topic at the conference. The panel included distinguished scholars from institutions like the University of Ottawa, the Australian Research Centre for Health Equity (ARCHE) at the Australian National University, the Swedish Defence University (SEDU) and the Queen Mary University of London. Nell found it inspiring to be in the company of experts who are pioneering research in this vital field, and found the exchange of ideas during the session both enriching and affirming. 

Beyond the academic sessions, ISA 2024 was also about connections—old and new. Nell enjoyed attending the conference with some close friends and colleagues, Ann Jacee Le from the University of California, Irvine, and Dr. Yvonne Su from York University. Their company made the experience even more special as they navigated the bustling conference together, sharing insights and reflecting on what they had learned. Nell also had the chance to reconnect with one of my mentors, Dr. Richard Matthew, from the University of California, Irvine, whose guidance has been instrumental in shaping her academic journey.  

And, of course… touring beautiful San Fran was a hit with her baba (dad)! 

As an early-career researcher, participating in ISA 2024 was a pivotal moment. The conversations I had, the feedback I received, and the diverse perspectives I encountered have all contributed to a deeper understanding of the complex issues I am passionate about. This experience has enriched my current work and sparked new ideas and potential collaborations that I am eager to explore. In a world where our challenges are increasingly interconnected, scholarly gatherings like ISA are essential. They provide a space for dialogue, innovation, and the building of networks that can drive real change. I am grateful to the Dahdaleh Institute and York University for funding this opportunity to be part of this vibrant intellectual community. I look forward to the thought-provoking discussions and meaningful connections that lie ahead.

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