Last October, the Peter Harrison Centre (PHC) welcomed ten new doctoral researchers, marking an exciting step in the continued growth and evolving scope of the Centre's research. As their projects begin to take shape, we are delighted to showcase the wide range of academic backgrounds, professional experiences, and shared curiosity that each new researcher brings to the PHC community.
To help everyone get to know our newest cohort, we are sharing a short series of introductions. Each feature spotlights one doctoral researcher, offering insight into their journey to doctoral study, their previous experience, and the questions driving their PhD research.
This is the ninth article in the series and introduces Yasmina Eissa.
Yasmina completed her undergraduate degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Loughborough University, where she developed a strong academic interest in the relationship between global governance, social justice, and policy development. During her time as an undergraduate, she became heavily involved with the Para and Disability Sport Executive on campus. This experience not only strengthened her commitment to advocating for inclusive sport but also inspired her to explore how political structures shape opportunities and barriers within Para‑Sport globally, a focus that ultimately influenced the direction of her doctoral research.
Her undergraduate dissertation examined the effectiveness of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Palestine. This project allowed her to further engage with themes she has long been passionate about, including human rights, the impact of international policy, and the role of organisations in shaping lived experiences. These interests continue to guide her academic journey.
Alongside her studies, Yasmina is an elite Para‑Badminton player representing Egypt. She currently holds a world ranking of third, balancing a full training schedule with her academic commitments. Her dual role as both an athlete and a researcher gives her a unique perspective on the real‑world implications of Para‑sport policy.
Yasmina is now undertaking a PhD at the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport, which she began in October 2025. Her doctoral project, titled “A Framework for Para‑Sport Policy: Addressing Global Imbalances in Para‑Sport Policy and Practice,” aims to develop a comprehensive and equitable policy model that highlights and addresses disparities in Para‑sport structures worldwide. Through this work, she seeks to contribute meaningful change to the governance and development of Para‑sport on a global scale.
Over the next week, we will introduce the final member of our new doctoral cohort. Each profile offers a closer look at the people behind our research and the ideas shaping the future of the Peter Harrison Centre.
Look out for the final introduction soon.