Ahlam Maodah

My thesis, entitled ''Staging Black Female Voices: Dramatisations of Silence, Anger and Desire in Contemporary African American and Black British Theatre'', analyses contemporary transatlantic Black women’s theatre through detailed study of four playwrights: two from the United States (Lynn Nottage and Cesi Davidson), and two from the UK (debbie tucker green and Mojisola Adebayo). I am especially interested in the political implications and effects of this body of formally inventive plays, exploring how they intervene in key debates within Black feminism.

My decision to pursue a PhD on this topic stems from a combination of academic interest, political engagement and personal passion. Contemporary Black women's playwriting, through its innovative forms and exploration of critical social and political issues related to race, gender, class and identity, presents a field ripe with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to both theatrical scholarship and broader societal conversations.

I am a lecturer in Drama at Jazan University in Saudi Arabia. I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship to pursue my doctoral studies, which has allowed me to dedicate myself fully to my research at Loughborough while maintaining my connection with Jazan University.

My PhD differs significantly from previous studies in its depth and demands, requiring greater self-motivation, enhanced skills of time management, and a higher level of commitment to producing original research. But I am finding the challenges incredibly rewarding. The intellectual stimulation and satisfaction of contributing new knowledge are unparalleled, making it a truly transformative experience for me.

I particularly enjoy the supportive environment at Loughborough, including the guidance from my supervisors. This support has allowed me to fully embrace the intellectual stimulation and independence of PhD research and confidently contribute original work to my field, leading to significant personal and academic growth.

My advice for prospective PhD students is that a Loughborough PhD is a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey. Once you begin, proactive planning, strong time management, and seeking effective mentorship are key. Remember to prioritise your well-being; Loughborough University offers resources to support this. Engage with the community — it is a supportive environment.

Beyond the first-rate physical facilities, I have found the student services to be exceptionally helpful, providing prompt assistance. The library resources, IT infrastructure and support, the dedicated study spaces meet researchers' needs effectively. Everything is well-maintained and designed to support the needs of doctoral students.