A gathering on 27 November 2025 of women in research became a quietly powerful space of connection. Guided by Prof. Marrielle Myers, we shared work shaped by our personal and professional journeys, and quickly realised how much we hold in common despite working in different contexts.

A key message from CPUT colleagues was the importance of community. Many of us work in isolation because our systems are not designed to hold us together. Yesterday reminded us that connection and mentorship at all levels help us stay grounded, supported, and reflective. Sometimes we simply need someone to listen so we can see our work differently.

We also considered what education means to each of us, noting how rarely we ask teachers about their own philosophies. Understanding these beliefs matters if we hope to support meaningful change.

Humanity and passion emerged as central to our work. Research is inseparable from who we are, and passion often sustains us through the unseen emotional labour. This linked to our discussion about transformation — offering second chances to others and ourselves, and moving beyond transmission toward genuine change.

We were honest about challenges too: gatekeeping, impostor syndrome, and the constant “white noise’’ that derails focus. Naming these pressures helped many feel seen.

Several lessons lingered: be strategic and intentional, remember that quiet focus can be more effective than noise, seek mentorship, and find a safe soundboard for processing our experiences.

The space felt nurturing, human, and real. The challenge now is to keep the connection alive and ensure our practices reflect the values we speak about. When we do, we don’t just call for transformation — we embody it.