What is your main area of research / clinical expertise?

My primary research interests are injury prevention, sports performance and athlete welfare, working with populations ranging from community sport to professional athletes. Other research interests include how engaged researchers and stakeholders are in health research and innovation and how medical journals use social media to communicate research.

What is your motivation to be a member of the BOSEM team?

To me, BOSEM represents the future of SEM, which means fresh thinking, new approaches, the opportunity to explore and ultimately change the status quo.

Also, I want to be like Evert Verhagen when I grow up. 😅

What is a work-related accomplishment that you’re really proud of?

Proud moments for me, when I feel a strong sense of accomplishment, are when students I work with start to ‘get’ the research process and work towards self-developing their research skills, especially writing.

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

My family, especially my mom. I come from a family of fruit and veg hawkers. So the notion of work and working hard was instilled in me from a young age. Even to this day, I feel a little bit of guilt when I’m taking a break or on leave. Thankfully though, I’ve come to realise the importance of time off for the creative process and staying productive.

What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?

I have a deep love for the ocean. So anything that gets me in the water – a swim, a dive or a snorkel. 🤿