Hi Ruben, what motivated you to choose Leeds and LBU for your PhD, and where were you studying or working prior to your move to the UK?

Before moving to the UK, I spent more than a decade working at the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, holding technical and managerial roles focused on strengthening national statistical systems, advancing statistical literacy and data innovations, and supporting evidence-informed policy. These experiences gave me a strong foundation in quantitative analysis and user engagement, but they also exposed me to the human stories behind the numbers, especially the challenges facing young people.

When exploring PhD opportunities, Leeds Beckett University stood out for several reasons. First, the Centre for Health Promotion Research has a strong reputation for applied, community-focused public health work that genuinely seeks to influence policy and practice. The supervisory team’s expertise also aligned perfectly with my interests in health inequalities and adolescent wellbeing. I was also drawn to LBU’s internationalisation agenda, reflecting a commitment to research with meaningful local and global impact. Coming from a national and international research environment, I wanted to join an institution that valued global perspectives and fostered cross-country collaborations.

I was fortunate to receive in 2021 a very competitive Commonwealth Scholarship, which enabled me to pursue this PhD at a prestigious UK university. This award not only recognised my previous experience and potential but also opened the door to world-class research opportunities and networks.

Finally, I saw the PhD as an opportunity to extend beyond my quantitative analysis background and develop skills in mixed-methods and qualitative research. I wanted a supportive environment to grow methodologically while applying my strengths in meaningful, applied public health contexts. For all these reasons, Leeds Beckett felt like the ideal place to continue my academic and professional journey.

Can you tell us a little about your PhD and how you would describe it to someone new to the subject?

My PhD explored why teenage pregnancy continues to increase and affect adolescent girls in Rwanda, despite strong national progress in health, education, and legal reforms supporting adolescents’ protection. I focused specifically on the household socioeconomic determinants that shape girls’ vulnerability, factors such as poverty, parental education, family relationships, overcrowding, communication, and wider social norms.

To understand this issue comprehensively, I used a mixed-methods design, which is ideal for complex and sensitive issues where numbers alone cannot capture lived experience. I began by analysing national survey data to identify broad patterns and the key household conditions associated with teenage pregnancy. I then carried out interviews and focus groups with teen mothers, parents, and community health workers in Rwanda, which helped me understand the lived experiences behind the statistics and the everyday challenges facing families. Their stories brought a depth and nuance that helped me make sense of the quantitative findings.

If I were explaining my research to someone new to the topic, I would say that I studied how a girl’s home environment shapes her opportunities, risks, and health outcomes - particularly her risk of teenage pregnancy - to produce evidence that helps families, communities, and policymakers create environments where adolescent girls are protected, supported, and able to thrive.

What has helped you to settle into life in Leeds, and at LBU?

Several things helped me settle quickly. Leeds is a warm, multicultural, and welcoming city, which made adjusting to life in the UK much easier. At LBU, my supervisory team provided clear guidance from the beginning, and research student support colleagues offered structure, training, and a strong sense of community.

Connecting with other international students and fellow PhD researchers helped me build a support network, and exploring the city’s parks, cafés, and cultural events made Leeds feel like home. Beyond my immediate academic community, as I got familiar with UK culture and quickly caught up with the local academic environment, I was able to support other scholars across 13 universities as the Regional Network Coordinator for the Commonwealth Scholars in the North East of England. This leadership role involved organising capacity-building events, facilitating collaborations and social interactions, and providing guidance, which helped me feel connected, purposeful, and integrated into a broader academic network.

The combination of academic support, a welcoming environment, and the chance to contribute to a wider scholarly community played a big role in helping me settle in.

Has anything about living and researching in Leeds surprised you or been different from what you expected?

Yes. Several things pleasantly surprised me. I hadn’t expected such a high level of independence and critical reflection in shaping my research. What initially felt daunting quickly became an important part of my personal and academic development. Throughout this process, my supervisors were exceptionally supportive - always available, approachable, and willing to help - which made the experience both manageable and empowering.

Another positive surprise has been the level of research collaboration at Leeds Beckett. I have worked alongside world-leading researchers both within the university and through external partnerships. For example, I contributed to applied public health evaluations with the Leeds Office of Data Analytics and NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board. Through the Centre for Health Promotion Research, I collaborated with specialists in health inequalities, community wellbeing, and evaluation science. These experiences broadened my perspective, strengthened my methodological skills, and exposed me to cutting-edge research in the UK.

I was also impressed by how welcoming and diverse the city is, and by the accessibility of LBU support services, from writing and research training to wellbeing support, making my transition smoother, more rewarding, and enriching than I expected.

Have there been any challenges in basing your research in Rwanda while studying in Leeds, and how have you managed or overcome these?

Conducting the qualitative component of my research required coordinating ethical approvals, careful planning, and resources. The biggest difference came from working closely with partners in Rwanda, including my local supervisor, while support from the LBU Directorate of Research and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission helped address any issues. Regular communication with my supervisors and collaborators ensured ethical integrity and cultural sensitivity. These experiences strengthened my skills in project management, international collaboration, and cross-cultural research.

What have been the highlights of your time in Leeds so far?

There have been many highlights. Academically, collaborating on applied public health projects, especially through my placement with NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, and participating in the LBU research community has allowed me to apply my research skills to real-world questions, contribute to important projects that have informed health outcomes in the UK health system, and deepen my understanding of health inequalities.

On a personal level, building friendships with other researchers, exploring Leeds’ green spaces and cultural events, and celebrating milestones in my PhD have all been highlights. The sense of community at LBU, combined with the city’s vibrancy, has made my experience both memorable and fulfilling.

Finally, what advice would you share with new international students joining LBU?

My biggest advice is: you don’t have to navigate the journey alone. Reach out for support early. LBU has excellent systems in place to help you succeed.

A few practical tips:

• Build your community; friendships and peer networks make the journey easier.
• Be open to new ways of learning; the UK academic culture may be different, but it will help you grow.
• Take advantage of training opportunities. They will be invaluable for your development.
• Maintain balance and look after your wellbeing; a PhD is demanding, but sustainable progress is key.

Above all, embrace the experience with curiosity and confidence. Studying at LBU is not only an academic journey, it is also a transformative personal one.