UMSEAP Research Visit

My UMSEAP research visit from 1 to 30 May 2023 was a valuable experience marked by cultural exchange and critical intellectual reflection. While the initial objective of collecting qualitative data with students did not come to fruition, the visit provided an important opportunity to fulfil key writing commitments and engage in rich academic dialogue.

During my time at the University of Missouri, I had the privilege of collaborating with Professor Antoinette Landor, engaging with her students, and interacting with a range of stakeholders. These meaningful exchanges significantly contributed to my ongoing research and continue to inform my work on how young people construct social identities and navigate racial, ethnic, and cultural differences within educational settings.

Academic Engagement during Visit

One of the most enriching aspects of my UMSEAP research visit was the opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant academic community at the University of Missouri. Highlights of this engagement included delivering a guest lecture to an undergraduate class, participating in weekly research meetings with Professor Landor and her postgraduate students, and attending a range of academic and social events.

These interactions were intellectually stimulating, offering fresh perspectives and inspiring potential avenues for future research collaboration. Informal conversations with scholars and researchers during social events further deepened my understanding of key issues and sparked new ideas relevant to my work.

Additionally, the enthusiasm and thoughtful dialogue with local community members underscored a strong interest in exploring the enduring relevance of race in so-called ‘post-colonial’ societies such as the United States and South Africa. These conversations remain ongoing and continue to show significant promise for future scholarly engagement and cross-cultural exchange.

Photo: Delivering a guest lecture to Professor Landor’s undergraduate class at the University of Missouri.

Cultural & Community Engagement

During my time at the University of Missouri, I explored the campus and engaged with a diverse range of individuals, each offering unique and thought-provoking perspectives on their connections to both “Mizzou” and the broader Columbia community. These conversations offered valuable insights into the lived experiences, concerns, perceptions, and aspirations of this group of Americans.

A personal highlight of my visit was participating in two events at the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center, which offered a profound sense of cultural engagement and community. Additionally, attending a service at the Second Missionary Baptist Church was a deeply enriching and spiritually nourishing experience.

These encounters added depth and dimension to my stay, shaping it in meaningful and unexpected ways. My observations and occasional participation in the university’s “Reading Day” activities brought lighthearted moments and served as a frequent icebreaker in conversations throughout my visit.

Columbia itself, with its rich history and vibrant community, was equally impactful. Walking through the downtown area brought to life many of the historical narratives shared by the insightful and enthusiastic tour guides I had the pleasure of meeting during my stay.

Research Impact & Future Directions

My research visit also had a significant influence on my ongoing scholarly work and approach to student supervision. Upon my return, and inspired by the diverse academic engagements during the visit, I recruited two Master’s-level students to undertake research projects that build upon and extend existing scholarship on race, racism, colourism, skin tone bias, and prejudice.

Furthermore, the experience served as a catalyst for the conceptualisation of a multi-country study examining how first-generation Black students navigate the transition from high school to university. This emerging research initiative aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the structural and interpersonal challenges these students face, as well as the strategies they employ to succeed in higher education contexts.

Photo: Attending MU’s Master's Graduation Ceremony for Research Team Members.

Photo: Dining at a downtown, Black-owned Restaurant with Prof Landor and her Research Team Members.