������Ƶ

Her doctoral research focused on refugee settlement in Aotearoa New Zealand and Sweden, with a particular interest in inclusion, belonging and language. She was inspired by her work at an English language school, where many of her students had refugee backgrounds. She wanted to better understand how countries can support refugees in settling well, developing a sense of belonging and learning the language needed to participate fully in society.

“I wanted to find out what countries could do better or differently to ensure refugees feel included and supported and can pursue their goals,” she says.

Originally from Sweden, Dr Svensson brought a unique comparative perspective to her research. She was interested in how political attitudes toward refugees and multiculturalism influenced refugees’ everyday experiences and their ability to rebuild their lives.

Her findings suggest there are important lessons to be learned in both countries. At a political level, she highlights the need for stronger family reunification policies and long-term support for career development. Socially, she points to the importance of creating more inclusive communities and services that meet the needs of newcomers. In education, she emphasises the need for better approaches to language learning, especially for those who have experienced disrupted schooling.

“The people who inspired this research are the students I’ve taught over the years. Their stories and achievements motivated me to explore how we can do better,” she says.

Dr Svensson first chose Massey for its flexible study options, which she says were essential as a stay-at-home parent. Over time, she continued her studies while working, supported by scholarships and the university’s distance learning programmes.

She says one of the most important parts of her Massey experience was the support she received from staff. Her supervisors, College of Humanities and Social Sciences Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Cynthia White and Distinguished Professor Emeritus Paul Spoonley, played a key role in her success.

“They believed in me, challenged me and encouraged me to do my best. Cynthia has supported me since my undergraduate years and has always been a positive influence.”

Completing a PhD during the COVID-19 pandemic brought added challenges, including uncertainty around international fieldwork. Although travel restrictions limited her planned research in Sweden, Dr Svensson was able to complete one valuable fieldwork visit. She also navigated the complexities of academic publishing with the help of her supervisors.

Dr Svensson’s PhD was completed by publication, a rigorous pathway that requires candidates to produce and publish high-quality, peer-reviewed research during their doctoral studies. At the time of submission, she had seven refereed journal articles accepted for publication. These publications reflect the breadth and depth of her research, covering topics such as language, belonging and refugee experiences in both Sweden and New Zealand. Her work has been featured in leading international journals, contributing valuable insights to the fields of applied linguistics, migration studies and education.

Now back in full-time work, she is already looking forward to future research opportunities.

“I miss the research already and would love to continue in that space,” she says.

To anyone considering studying at Massey, Dr Svensson’s advice is simple.

“The flexibility and support I received made all the difference. Even as a distance student I always felt part of the community.”

Professor White says Dr Svensson is an exceptional scholar whose research consistently centres the voices and experiences of refugees and migrants.

“Her deep commitment to dialogic methodologies and ethical engagement with communities across Aotearoa and Sweden is truly inspiring. Her work exemplifies academic rigour, compassion and meaningful impact, qualities that make her an outstanding representative of research-informed practice and a powerful advocate for those navigating displacement and resettlement."