Skip navigation

Nisha Susan Thomas

Nisha Thomas Northumbria UniversityQualifications

MSc International Development (International Development Department, University of Birmingham), 2007

PhD Project

My PhD research examines the link between diaspora and development through international volunteering. My study will explore the various forms and patterns of international volunteering amongst diasporic communities that occur through formal structures (such as NGOs) as well as informally (through personal connections or other affiliations) in their countries of origin. The objective is to recognize what is distinctive about diaspora volunteering and identify their unique and particular contribution to development. My research also attempts to establish diaspora volunteering within the wider debates in international volunteering and development literature, and thereby enable a broader conceptualization of international volunteering and development.

The study, which is undertaken in collaboration with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), UK, will focus on two diasporic communities in Britain and their countries of origin; one from Africa (Nigeria) and one from South Asia.

In addition to this, on a personal level, I am also interested in the shifting patterns and modalities of development co-operation, debates on aid effectiveness and the changing politics of foreign aid and development, more broadly.

Contact 

nisha.thomas@northumbria.ac.uk


a sign in front of a crowd
+

Northumbria Open Days

Open Days are a great way for you to get a feel of the University, the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and the course(s) you are interested in.

a person sitting at a table using a laptop
+
NU World Virtual Tours
+

Virtual Tour

Get an insight into life at Northumbria at the click of a button! Come and explore our videos and 360 panoramas to immerse yourself in our campuses and get a feel for what it is like studying here using our interactive virtual tour.

Latest News and Features

How music heals us, even when it’s sad – by a neuroscientist leading a new study of musical therapy
an image showing a pile of books with one open on top
Generic phone with social media apps.
Northumbria University announces £50m space skills, research and development centre set to transform the UK space industry
A logo with navy blue writing on a pink background which reads Northern Writers' Awards 2024
Niyah Waters
More news
More events

Upcoming events

Violence Against Women and Girls: Research into Practice
Professor Tony Williams Inaugural
Northumbria University Carol Service

Back to top