Meet Sri Lankan Researcher — Gayani Gunasekara

What are you currently working on or worked on before?

I’m currently researching the identity work of female immigrants.

What encouraged you to pursue your research topic?

My journey as an immigrant in Australia is the motivation behind my research. Intersecting identities of female immigrants and identity work by female immigrants in making sense of themselves fascinate me.

What is the name of your current institute?

University of Wollongong

Where do you find your best inspiration for your work?

While talking to strangers and also at busy libraries and cafes.

Can you share with us some of your publications?

Yes, you can find them using a below-mentioned URL. https://www.bam.ac.uk/sites/bam.ac.uk/files/contribution758_0.pdf

What’s one of your biggest personal achievements so far?

My journey so far, every bit of it especially the downhills that taught me to keep going.

What lessons would you share with a budding researcher?

Researching is a way of chasing your passion. Find that topic you are truly interested then every day you wake up to chase your dream, there will not be a single mundane day. Having said that, it is a demanding journey, not every day is a walk in the park. That’s alright, it’s part of the journey. Practice being resilient and keep going.

What motivated you to be a researcher?

Passion to learn and curiosity.

If there is a chance, will you help build research in Sri Lanka?

Absolutely.

According to your opinion, what are the changes that the Sri Lankan education system needs to do, in order to meet the requirement of the international industry and academia?

The Sri Lankan education system needs to facilitate more research practice. Recognise research as an essential step towards building an informed generation. Also importantly the Sri Lankan education system needs to enforce standards and practice that maintain integrity in research.