The Power of Participatory Research

The Power of Participatory Research: A Knowledge Exchange Event

At a time when traditional research often overlooks the lived realities of those most affected by systemic challenges, participatory research stands as a powerful tool for change. By shifting power dynamics and placing communities at the heart of the research process, we move beyond observation to action—ensuring that knowledge is co-created, relevant and impactful.

Join us for Sedulous' first Knowledge Exchange event, bringing together community members, funders, institutional stakeholders and academics to explore The Power of Participatory Research. Through thought-provoking keynotes, an engaging panel discussion and an interactive knowledge exchange session, we will unpack the value of participatory approaches, challenge conventional research models and discuss how we can collectively drive meaningful change.

This event isn’t just about conversation—it’s about collaboration. Whether you are new to participatory research or deeply embedded in its practice, your voice is essential in shaping the future of community-led research. Let’s learn, exchange and take action together.

Info: Dr. Neelam Raina is the Director of Research of Middlesex University and an Associate Professor of design and international development at Middlesex University, London. Her research interests include conflict, security, peace building, material cultures, gender and livelihood generation in fragile, conflict affected states. Raina is a post conflict reconstruction expert with a focus on South Asia where she has conducted extensive empirical research over the last two and half decades in ecologically and politically fragile settings. The Women, Peace and Security agenda is key to her research, as she seeks to foreground marginalised voices of women in fragile locations. She recently completed five year research project UKRI GCRF Gender, Justice and Security Hub as the director of the Culture and Conflict project that intertwines practice, research and policy into positive commercialised outputs with South Asian women.

Info: Matt Johnson is CEO of Race on the Agenda, which is one Britain’s leading anti-racist change drivers. He was formerly the Head of Research at Runnymede Trust, where he led the team on issues of race and ethnic inequalities. Matt has previously been the Head of Research at Black Equity Organisation, developing their portfolio of research on issues such as the State of Black education in Britain. With significant experience in policy, research and leadership, Matthew has a deep understanding of the racial justice cause across several sectors.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Old Laundry, 20 Eastcote Street, London, United Kingdom