UCL Geography Graduate Wins RGS-IBG Participatory Geographies Dissertation Prize

Akshaya received the Prize for her thesis “Belonging across borders: Transnational and Indian Tamil diaspora in East Ham, London.” Her research explores the role of transnational spaces in shaping the lives and identities of the Indian Tamil diaspora in East Ham. 

She told us about how both her academic interests and personal experiences led to choosing the topic, stating, “I first wrote something similar on transnational spaces in East Ham for one of my 2nd year modules… This topic stuck with me.” Her deep connections to the community fueled her motivation and drive throughout the research process.  

Under the supervision of Dr Tom Western, she refined her focus, leading to significant insights into the community. “Akshaya’s dissertation is a really beautiful piece of work,” Dr Western said. “She carried out the research with such care and commitment, and the writing is full of ethnographic creativity and deep insight. It was a total pleasure seeing this work come together, and I’m really thrilled for Akshaya.” 

Using sensory ethnographic methods, Akshaya examined community hubs like Hindu temples and local stores, highlighting their importance in fostering cultural intimacy. “In these spaces, diaspora can assert their belonging and solidarity within the UK context,” she noted.  

Her findings challenge the idea that these transnational spaces are isolated, emphasising that they enrich modern multicultural Britain. “These spaces shape and are shaped by the UK today… contributing to the effort to move away from colonial ideas of migrant assimilation,” she added. 

Reflecting on her award, Akshaya said, “I was personally proud of my dissertation… This validation of my hard work means the world, especially with a body of work so personal to me.” 

One memorable experience during her research was interviewing the headmaster of the Tamil School, which “emphasised a transnational way of life – finding ways to celebrate and reaffirm heritage culture.” 

Since graduating, Akshaya has started a Master’s in Sustainability Science at the University of Tokyo, focusing on aquaculture as a sustainable development tool. “I plan to focus on Tamil fishing communities in Sri Lanka and India,” she shared.