About Me – Rachael Aka

…And My Research

I am an ERSC-funded PhD researcher at Cardiff University and part of the Wales Graduate School for Social Sciences (WGSSS). As part of my this journey I completed a MSc in Social Science Research Methods in 2024, with distinction.

My doctoral research is a collaborative project with Monmouthshire Rural Support Centre (MRSC), based at Monmouthshire Livestock Market. Alongside my studies, I also work as a Project Officer for The Farming Community Network (FCN Cymru).

My PhD explores how volunteers at the MRSC engage with and actively listen to the farming community. Working closely with volunteers I aim to better understand the practices of care, support and listening that shape this vital work.

Through this collaboration, I hope to contribute both to academic knowledge and to practical insights that can strengthen the support available to farmers during challenging times and shine a light on the exemplar work and worth of volunteers.

I live on the Gower Peninsula with my husband, three children and our dog. Family, community and rural life form the foundation of my research, work and engagement with others.