Sophie Karangaroa, who recently passed her PhD as a MCASI student, presented her doctoral research at the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE) yesterday, a major global forum attended by more than 3,800 delegates from around the world.
Sophie’s PhD was supervised by Associate Professor Michelle Johnston, John Curtin Distinguished Professor Kim Scott, and Professor Huia Jahnker from Massey University (New Zealand). Her doctoral work reflects the depth and strength of Indigenous-led research emerging through MCASI, and her presentation at WIPCE highlighted the cultural integrity, academic rigour, and relevance of her study.
Supporting Sophie at the conference were:
• Professor Cheryl Kickett-Tucker (School of Education), who has mentored her throughout the project
• Associate Professor Michelle Johnston (MCASI)
• Brendon DeGois (Centre for Aboriginal Studies)
• Associate Professor Mandy Downing, Dean, Indigenous Futures
Sophie’s achievement demonstrates Curtin University’s commitment to elevating Indigenous scholarship, strengthening research capacity, and celebrating the leadership of emerging Indigenous researchers on a global stage.
