Exploring the Future of Social Science for Health: World Café Conversations

The event opened with a World Café session in which participants rotated between tables to discuss four guiding questions:

• What does social sciences for health mean to you?
• Are there particular health-related questions in your research or teaching that you would like to receive input on from SSGH colleagues?
• Are you thinking of writing a health-related proposal for which you would like feedback, or where you hope to build inter-, cross-, or transdisciplinary connections?
• What should the Centre prioritize for its members?

These conversations offered insights into the collective aspirations of the SSGH community. Participants expressed a clear interest in student-focused activities, opportunities for transdisciplinary collaboration, and engagement with non-academic stakeholders. Some also highlighted the value of strengthening ties with other research centres across the university, including, for example, the Centre for Sustainable Development Studies.

Connecting Through Speed-Dating

After the World Café, attendees moved into the speed-dating round – an informal yet structured series of short conversations that encouraged participants to get to know each other’s work, interests, and passions. Questions ranged from personal motivations for engaging in health-related research to the global dimensions they incorporate into their projects.

The atmosphere was friendly and energising, helped along by snacks and drinks that kept the conversations flowing. This part of the event provided a welcome reminder of the diverse expertise within the SSGH community and the many opportunities for collaboration that arise when researchers step outside their usual disciplinary circles.

Looking Ahead

The event reaffirmed the vibrant, collaborative spirit of SSGH. The feedback gathered during the World Café will help guide the Centre’s priorities in the coming year as we continue to support inter-, trans- and cross-disciplinary research and meaningful partnerships both within and beyond academia.

We look forward to hosting more events that bring our community together – and to seeing the new ideas and collaborations that will emerge from these conversations!