Lotz of thoughts

The journey of an early career scholar is exciting and challenging, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and developing a solid foundation for a future in academia. Recently, I had the honour of speaking at the FAR LEAF programme closing ceremony at Future Africa , where I shared insights and advice with a group of emerging researchers, being a mentor in the programme. In this blog post, I want to extend that message to all early career scholars, not from a place of having all the answers but as someone who continues to learn and grow every day. The lessons I share here are ones I am still navigating myself, and I hope they provide encouragement and support as you forge your own path in academia. One of the most important lessons from experiences like the FAR LEAF programme is the power of perseverance. The academic path can be long and sometimes daunting, with setbacks and unexpected challenges. But you can persist, adapt, and continuously learn, setting you apart. Your jo

 Embarking on a fast from Facebook and Instagram was an eye-opening experience, revealing insights about digital habits, social engagement, and personal discipline. I have done it before and each time is so different...Here are some key takeaways from my break this time: The LinkedIn Landscape One of the first observations was the stark difference in engagement on LinkedIn compared to Facebook and Instagram. While the topics discussed on LinkedIn occasionally overlap with those on other platforms, the depth and justification of opinions often vary significantly. LinkedIn's professional environment allows for a different type of dialogue focused on career achievements and industry insights. Marketing one's work is prevalent, but the platform lacks the constant temptation to purchase products that are present on Instagram and Facebook. Breaking the Habit The initial days of the fast were the most challenging. It took about 2-3 days for my hand to stop instinctively reaching for t