“The 2024 Crawford Fund Conference feels like my first big step towards the career I’ve been dreaming of, and I couldn’t be more grateful” – Our Scholar Reflections from the ACT
September 2, 2024
The Crawford Fund’s Annual Conference was on Tuesday 13 August at Parliament House, Canberra.
As well as bringing together the world’s leading experts in agricultural science, research, policy, development and industry to address the conference topic, the Crawford Fund is committed to encouraging the next generation in international agriculture for development to the event via scholarships awarded through our State and Territory committees and scholar supporters.
Our conference scholarship program started in 2010 in the hope that by experiencing the Crawford Fund conference and network, our special program of activities around the conference and being mentored by inspirational experienced researchers, young researchers would be inspired and energised to be more involved. The results have been fantastic, with a great mix of youth and experience at our flagship event each August and a growing and enthusiastic conference scholar alumni approaching 450.
Our competitive Conference Scholarships are offered to young people with a genuine interest in international agricultural research and development to attend the conference and a special set of activities that we have developed since the program commenced in 2010.
Our other activities to encourage university students and early career researcher include highlighting opportunities in volunteering for projects overseas through the Australian Volunteers Program; our work with Researchers in Agriculture for International Development (RAID), and our special international student awards to enable students to be involved in overseas projects as part of their university study.
One of the requirements of the scholarship is that each scholar provides us with a reflection on their experience. We will be providing these reflections over the coming weeks, grouped by State.
Once again, we would like to thank our wonderful mentors, mentioned alongside the scholar they supported, who volunteer their time and offer valuable guidance, support and insights to the scholars throughout the conference.
Three scholars from the ACT attended the 2024 Crawford Fund conference, supported by our ACT Committee. Highlights of their experiences have been captured below:
ACT CRAWFORD FUND COMMITTEE SUPPORTED SCHOLARS
Lucy Darragh, Australian National University
“The individual mentors assigned to each Scholar facilitated enthusiastic personal introductions and networking opportunities, making it easier to connect with other. This element of the program was observed to be particularly great for anyone who finds conferences and cold approaches daunting or overwhelming.”
Arifah Hidayati, Australian National University
“Attending the Crawford Fund Conference as one of the scholars has been a major highlight of 2024 for me. The theme, “Food and Nutrition Security: Transformative Partnerships, Local Leadership, and Co-design,” deeply resonated with me, as I firmly believe that local communities should be at the heart of every development project. The panel brought together diverse experiences and lessons from local, national, and global perspectives. Additionally, the opportunity to network with professionals and experts across various agriculture-related fields has been invaluable.”
Mariane Johnstone, Australian National University
“The 2024 Crawford Fund Conference feels like my first big step towards the career I’ve been dreaming of, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’ve always had a passion for the environment, and a curiosity for way culture and politics interact with environmental issues. Over my time at the ANU, I’ve developed an interest in food and nutrition security. It connects the parts of my degree that captured me most, and importantly, gives me reasons for hope and purpose through innovative policy and research, and meaningful work…This year’s Conference theme, “Food and Nutrition Security: Transformative Partnership, Local Leadership and Co- Design” aligned perfectly with my interests, and it was a real pinch-me moment to attend.”
Read on for the full reflections of each ACT scholar:
Lucy Darragh, Australian National University
Mentor: David Shearer
The 2024 Crawford Fund Conference was a unique opportunity to connect with global leaders and explore the complex challenges and possibilities in international agricultural development and associated research. The conference’s focus on ‘Food and Nutrition Security: Transformative Partnerships, Local Leadership and Co-Design’ brought together individuals and organisations with diverse knowledges, research interests and priorities, all united by a shared passion for sustainable agricultural development.
The conference showcased an extensive diversity of countries, communities, crop types, and collaborative partnerships, each highlighting unique challenges, deep-seated issues, and inspiring opportunities. From the many engaging speakers, several stood out for their thought- provoking talks that resonated deeply with me, leaving a lasting impression.
Hussein Tadicha Wario’s signal to think more deeply and to challenge dominant narratives regarding approaches to agricultural development (in the drylands of Kenya), aligns my personal research interests and elements of my PhD project. His emphasis on the need to recognise, acknowledge, and possibly rethink, how projects are conceptualised, challenges us to move beyond dominant (and often deeply entrenched) narratives that so strongly shape research and development.
Madonna Thomson’s talk, focused on revitalising traditional Aboriginal food practices (for nutrition, health and pharmacological benefits, as well as socio-cultural and economic transformation through Indigenous knowledge and self-determination), highlighted the often- overlooked reality that the challenges of international agriculture development, climate change, and geo- and socio-political landscapes are not just distant issues, but also pressing concerns right here in Australia. Her message around supporting continuity of cultural practice, and research partnerships that allow impacted communities to determine what ethical research looks like reiterated the importance and value of community-led research. Madonna’s powerful message that, “It’s not about us. It’s by us”, is a foundational principle of participatory approaches, and is a condition we must all meet in our approach to research to truly ensure that the voices and perspectives of Indigenous peoples and impacted communities are centred.
Dr Seeseei Molimau-Samasoni’s approach to project management and the development of strategic partnerships to support community-led research in Samoa and inclusive opportunities for students and researchers from the Pacific was truly inspiring. Her in-country examples of declining agronomic production, exacerbated by the ‘brain drain’ of Samoans training abroad and staying overseas, as well as the unintended consequences of Australia’s agricultural working visa programs, drove home the importance of considering the broader implications of research for development initiatives (R4D). The insight she provided into the interconnectedness of these (among other) factors highlighted the risks of poorly aligned projects, which can ultimately diminish local communities’ capacity to produce their own food and undermine their self- sufficiency.
Dr Ismahane Elouafi’s presentation offered a timely and crucial reminder of the intricate relationships between climate challenges, public health, policy, equity, and inclusion, and their far-reaching implications for sustainable development. Her emphasis on the disproportionate impact of these issues for certain communities was a critical reminder of the complexities we face as a society. Notably, her acknowledgment of the need for improved scientific understanding of nutrition and the significant knowledge gaps that remain was a brave and motivating. Her mention that, “capacity exists, resources don’t” highlighted the need for sound investment and resourcing alongside capacity building initiatives to effectively address these pressing issues.
The importance of humility in fostering genuine participatory research approaches was a recurring theme emphasised by Dr. Line Gordon, Professor Hampus Eriksson, and Dr. Uday Nidumolu. Dr. Nidumolu’s engaging anecdotes showcased the effectiveness of authentic collaborative partnerships and inclusive science communication strategies, such as using dance, that are deeply rooted in context and acknowledge the intricate, dynamic challenges faced by smallholder farmers in a rapidly changing climate. The case studies on fruit fly management and research presented by Papua New Guinean biosecurity experts, Annastasia Kawi and Patrick Nai, provided valuable insights into the practical applications of these principles. In this and similar contexts, something that continues to strike me are the narratives that non-local, western- trained researchers and communicators tend to construct around science and innovation. We often discuss and encourage the idea that local knowledges and approaches be labelled as ‘cultural practice’, implying that anything developed outside the walls of our ivory towers, or by the hands of those not formally trained in these institutions as ‘scientists’ is a departure from scientific knowledge. In turn, we see ‘science’ take precedence over local practice, knowledge and experience in the same contexts, despite the latter being indistinguishable from science itself. This is something that we must take more seriously in reflecting on our own research and practice.
By acknowledging the scientific value of cultural practices, we can continue to break down the artificial boundaries between traditional knowledge and ‘Western’ scientific approaches. This recognition is essential for fostering more inclusive and equitable research partnerships, where local knowledge and expertise are valued and respected. In doing so, we can work towards a more nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of culture, science, and innovation.
The Crawford Fund Conference Scholars Days activities, which ran either side of the conference, provided a unique and engaging opportunity to hear from a variety of speakers, including Keynote, Dr Line Gordon, and several affiliates of the Crawford Fund, the RAID Network and CGIAR. The individual mentors assigned to each Scholar facilitated enthusiastic personal introductions and networking opportunities, making it easier to connect with other. This element of the program was observed to be particularly great for anyone who finds conferences and cold approaches daunting or overwhelming. Importantly, vibrant social events (and great meals and catering!) helped to nourish new friendships.
Overall, the conference was a truly enriching and valuable experience that provided opportunities to learn from passionate peers, build networks and friendships, and gain insight into the challenges and possibilities associated with research for agricultural development. The emphasis on transformative partnerships, local leaderships and co-design was a timely reminder of the importance of community-led innovation and transdisciplinary approaches to drive research that is not only scientifically robust, but socially responsible.
I cannot thank the Crawford Fund and its affiliates enough for this incredible opportunity.
Arifah Hidayati, Australian National University
Mentor: Mikayla Hyland-Wood
My experience in the agriculture sector has primarily been indirect. My academic focus has been on the silvicultural aspects of forestry, beginning with my Bachelor of Forestry Science at Universitas Gadjah Mada from 2016 to 2020. However, my interest in agroforestry led me to choose this topic for my bachelor’s thesis, where I conducted a case study on the characteristics of mixed-garden agroforestry managed by smallholder farmers and the gendered roles involved in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. My first professional experience was with an official development assistance (ODA) project focused on ecosystem restoration, specifically peatland—a crucial yet highly degraded ecosystem in Indonesia.
I am currently working on my thesis project, which explores peatland restoration in Jambi, Sumatra, as part of my Master of Forests program at the Australian National University. During my fieldwork, I observed how communities living around peatlands are directly impacted by stochastic events such as fires, floods, and droughts. Fish catches have been declining while grocery prices continue to soar. Food security is a pressing concern, and while ecosystem preservation and restoration are important, for many people, the primary question remains: “How can we make sure our bowls aren’t empty?”
Attending the Crawford Fund Conference as one of the scholars has been a major highlight of 2024 for me. The theme, “Food and Nutrition Security: Transformative Partnerships, Local Leadership, and Co-design,” deeply resonated with me, as I firmly believe that local communities should be at the heart of every development project. The panel brought together diverse experiences and lessons from local, national, and global perspectives. Additionally, the opportunity to network with professionals and experts across various agriculture-related fields has been invaluable.
A key takeaway for me was Dr Ismahane Elouafi’s point about the importance of conducting agricultural research within a systems approach, interlinked with broader issues such as climate change, environmental challenges, and global health. This perspective aligned with Dr Deirdre Lemerle’s observation that complex problems require complex solutions. Dr Wahida Maghraby emphasised the importance of treating partners as friends and ensuring mutual benefits in development projects for both donors and beneficiaries. Another standout point came from Dr Uday Nidumolu of CSIRO, who highlighted how communities rely on local, contextualised knowledge, showcasing how a community in Telangana, India, used street plays to communicate the results of an ACIAR research project.
The scholar activities were also incredibly beneficial and well-organised. We were provided with insightful presentations on building careers in international agricultural research, the necessary skills (including sensitivity to language, culture, gender, and politics), and the opportunities available through ACIAR, DFAT, and other organisations. Jumping into new fields can be daunting, but these talks were immensely helpful for us as young professionals.
The Crawford Fund has done an outstanding job of investing in impactful projects and organising activities that support the next generation of professionals. I would like to extend my thanks to the ACT Crawford Fund Committee for sponsoring my attendance, Mikayla Hyland-Wood for being an amazing mentor, the speakers and participants, as well as my fellow scholars who have contributed to my learning.
Mariane Johnstone, Australian National University
Mentor: Rosemary Deininger
The 2024 Crawford Fund Conference feels like my first big step towards the career I’ve been dreaming of, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’ve always had a passion for the environment, and a curiosity for way culture and politics interact with environmental issues. Over my time at the ANU, I’ve developed an interest in food and nutrition security. It connects the parts of my degree that captured me most, and importantly, gives me reasons for hope and purpose through innovative policy and research, and meaningful work. I am so grateful to Martin Amidy for bringing me into Agrifood Innovation Institute and helping me get a foot in the door. This year’s Conference theme, “Food and Nutrition Security: Transformative Partnership, Local Leadership and Co- Design” aligned perfectly with my interests, and it was a real pinch-me moment to attend.
As an undergraduate, I felt worried about my lack of experience, and my lack of clarity on where exactly it is that I want to go with my career. I’m interested in food and nutrition security, but I’m also interested in diplomacy. I’m not sure if I want to go into policy or research, or both! Whilst I maybe didn’t have a specific goal in mind going into the conference beyond learning as much as I could, I didn’t need to worry so much! My mentor was Rosemary Deininger, and she really helped me see how a career can evolve and change, and this was only reinforced by the many conversations I had with scholars, mentors and conference attendees. I was thrilled to chat with Dr Line Gordon, as I’ve been following the EAT Lancet work for years. Our conversation has pushed me to consider further studies in nutrition.
The Conference also helped me better understand the fields of international agricultural research in development, food and nutrition security, sustainable food systems and sustainable diets. I also now have a lot to consider for my Honours next year! The presentations and panels across the Conference Day were incredibly insightful, and inspirational. For example, Seeseei Molimau-Samasoni’s words on how to approach research in a culturally safe and respectful way, with awareness of power dynamics and legacies. She spoke about what makes partnerships genuine, and I think it will stay with me forever. The final panel, with four women from across the world, was another highlight. The respectfully navigated challenging questions, supported one another and built on each other’s responses, and I was in complete awe, and inspired by their sense of hope. Madonna Thompson was a fantastic and engaging speaker, and I’ve not stopped thinking about the state of native bush food industries in Australia.
The scholar sessions have empowered me with knowledge, advice and skills. I now have a better understanding of what opportunities are available, particularly overseas, how to reach out to people, how to communicate relevant stories to the media. Getting to know all the Scholars across the two and a half days was a joy, and it was so nice to be surrounded by so many like-minded people. I have a feeling I’ll bump into some of the Scholars over time, and I look forward to it. The RAID team did a wonderful job of organising events and I’m excited to now be a member! We are so lucky to have Crawford, RAID, and ACIAR – a big thank you for the work they do, and the work involved in bringing such a fantastic event together.
