In a world increasingly defined by challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and social inequities, the contributions of those committed to making a positive impact are more crucial than ever.
Among these changemakers is Nazifa Rafa, a PhD student and a member of Lucy Cavendish College, who recently received the Vice Chancellor's Social Impact PhD Award, which celebrates her outstanding contributions towards creating significant economic, social, and cultural impacts through her research.
Nazifa’s journey began with her academic journey at the Asian University for Women, leading to the completion of her MPhil in Environmental Policy at Cambridge, supported by the Judy Moody-Stuart Scholarship.
Her current PhD project at the Department of Geography examines the complex interactions between host states and refugee communities, specifically looking at how these dynamics affect disaster risk reduction and response strategies. which is incredibly important as it addresses the many challenges faced by displaced populations, a topic on which Nazifa recently received the Best Student Paper Award, further highlighting her impact in the field.
Throughout her PhD, her research has been published in journals such as the Journal of Cleaner Production and Sustainability and explores critical areas such as water and energy security, disaster risks, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.
Her collaboration on the UN report, "Synergy Solutions for a World in Crisis", marks another significant milestone in her academic journey, which advocates for integrated approaches to climate action and sustainable development goals (SDGs), emphasizing the synergies that can be achieved between these two critical areas. The success of this report has led to the development of a second phase, promising even greater contributions to global policy discussions.
The Vice Chancellor's Social Impact PhD Award, organized by the University of Cambridge Public Engagement and Impact team, is given to those who not only pursue excellence in their research but also seek to implement ambitious engagement and impact plans. Nazifa was among just 15 students recognized this year, a testament to her exceptional work and its potential to foster significant change.
Following receiving this award, Nazifa continues to expand her involvement at the research-policy interface, striving to bridge knowledge gaps that hinder effective policymaking. Her aim to influence real impact through her research is a driving force behind her ongoing projects and future endeavours.
As she continues her work, Nazifa not only contributes to academic discourse but also plays a crucial role in the practical application of these ideas to improve the lives of those in marginalized and impoverished communities. Her achievements are a call to action for others to take part in the meaningful pursuit of knowledge that leads to tangible societal benefits.
