I decided to do my PhD
mostly because I studied political science
and I have always worked with
rural developments
and slowly I started with irrigation and water projects.
At some point, I felt that I was lacking a bit
on knowledge on water itself
So,  I decided to start a PhD
to deepen my knowledge on water
and get more insight of the interdisciplinarity
around water issues.
Also, I thought that a PhD
is a really amazing opportunity
to research what you are passionate about
without too much responsibilities other than that.
When I finished my Masters
I received a scholarship
for doing a traineeship at UNESCO
in the office for Latin America and the Caribbean
in the International Hydrological Programme
I was acquainted with the water family of UNESCO.
One of the main centers at the moment was IHE Delft.
I got interested in the work of IHE Delft.
I found out a lot of information
about my promotor
and the work environment in IHE Delft
and that The Netherlands is a
power when it comes to water research
in the world.
I decided to give it a shot and it turned out well.
My PhD Research
is part of a bigger project
called the UDW project
Urbanizing Deltas of the World in Maputo
We are working mainly with a
waste water treatment plant
and the water reclamation for other uses
to balance out the demand of fresh water in Maputo
in Mozambique.
What I am doing is trying to establish
the relationships in changing water qualities
in the valley where the waste water treatment plant
is located.
and the social relations of production
of the small scale farmers in the area.
More particularly, to female farmers.
After I finish my PhD
I wish I can go back to the development world
and try to work in a development agency
with the knowledge that I got during my PhD
Also being able to talk back
to the technical world
and the international cooperation.
If I could give a message to
someone who is thinking of
starting a PhD
I would say
inform yourself
and be sure that this is what you would like to do
because a PhD is a lot of responsibility
and it is a huge commitment.
You really need to like your topic
and be sure you like your team
and that you are going to enjoy doing a PhD
Because you have to do it for four years
