PhD student awarded best poster presentation

Ify Nwiwu, a PhD Researcher in Health and Wellbeing at the University of Wolverhampton, has been awarded the Overall Best Poster Presentation at the Leeds Beckett University annual Postgraduate Research (PGR) Conference.

After discovering the conference via Eventbrite, Ify reached out to the organisers to inquire about submitting an abstract. Following a rigorous review process, her abstract was accepted, and her poster was approved for display at the conference.

Her award-winning research explores the critical and often under-discussed practices of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Breast Ironing (BI). The presentation generated significant interest, particularly around Breast Ironing, a topic unfamiliar to many attendees. At one point, her presentation area was surrounded by an engaged audience, including judges who were actively participating in the discussion.

“I was genuinely surprised and honoured when my name was announced as the winner among 16 presenters,” said Ify. “This recognition validates the rigorous work I’ve invested in my research and highlights the importance of raising awareness about these vital issues.”

This marks Ify’s second major award, following earlier recognition from the University of Cambridge. She credits her success to the unwavering support of her Director of Studies, Dr Opinderjit Takhar, Associate Dean Research and Knowledge Exchange at the University of Wolverhampton, whose guidance has been instrumental throughout her research journey.

The award underscores the importance of academic research in addressing global human rights issues and highlights the role of postgraduate researchers in driving meaningful change.