Be Part of Sara’s Vision – Support Her Doctoral Studies

Hello everyone, I’m Sara.

Introduction

I've learned that life isn't about having all the answers—it's about staying curious, showing up with courage, and being open to the journey of becoming. My path has been unconventional, but at its core, it's about connection and purpose, truth and freedom, and reimagining what's possible.

As a modern nomad, social entrepreneur, physiotherapist, and artist, I have traversed continents, gaining a unique perspective through each encounter and project I embarked upon. In January 2025, I relocated to Aotearoa New Zealand to begin a doctorate at Auckland University of Technology. This new chapter is about more than research—it's about rethinking healthcare and sparking bold, meaningful change.

Why This PhD Matters

Healthcare systems worldwide are grappling with challenges—socially, politically, and environmentally. I’ve heard the cracks in the system echoed by patients, peers, and policymakers alike. My doctorate is a response to this call for change.

“If not me, then who?”

That said, my intention is not to have the ultimate solution or a temporary fix. It’s about asking better questions—digging deeper to understand the roots of the chaos and daring to imagine what’s possible when we look beneath the surface. It’s an open invitation to reflect, rethink and rebuild.

What Is the PhD About?

Intuition—whether described as instinct, gut feeling, or innate knowledge—often names something beyond our current understanding. But what do we truly mean by intuition? Can it be defined without losing its essence? Is it solely human, or does it exist in animals and plants, mountains and rivers, light and sound, and the broader world? Over the centuries, intuition seems to have been dismissed, especially in healthcare, where it lacks credibility, yet many of us rely on it in practice. I know I do. This research explores the nature of intuition and whether it has disappeared or remains in subtler forms, hidden by dominant knowledge. It asks what might be possible if we embraced a different way of knowing: one that sees the world not as fixed and measurable, but as always in process. A worldview where nothing exists in isolation and humans are not the central reference point. Such a shift opens new possibilities for how we understand health, healing, and the existence of intuition throughout.

While the project will include a short written thesis, most of the exploration will unfold through arts-based research, inviting expressions of what lies at the edges of our comprehension.

Beyond the doctorate, I hope to support innovative, transdisciplinary work that reimagines health beyond the current framework. I aim to live creatively—being involved in research and teaching, writing, producing art, and creating media that inspire reflection and nurture a better world.

A Journey of Collaboration

After nearly two years of searching, I’m incredibly grateful to have found a transdisciplinary team of supervisors who truly support my vision. I’m honored to work with Dr. David Nicholls, Dr. Michael A. Huffman, and Dr. Jessica L. Williams—brilliant minds across physiotherapy, ecology, and the arts. Alongside them, my inspiring colleagues and friends, Paul Lagerman and Kate Waterworth, continue to shape my journey in powerful ways. These connections have deeply transformed both my academic path and personal growth. (From left to right in the photo: Dave, Paul, and Kate.)

Why Aotearoa New Zealand?

I moved to Aotearoa New Zealand in part because of the financial benefit of lower tuition fees, made possible through government subsidies for international doctorate students. Being closer to my primary supervisor, Dr. Dave Nicholls, and joining a supportive university environment were also important factors in my decision. Though to be completely honest, the real driving forces behind my decision were the stunning natural beauty, the slower pace of life, and the rich indigenous Māori culture and wisdom. My goal is to fully embrace the culture and environment while pursuing my doctorate.

The Financial Reality

In 2024, while going through the university enrolment and immigration process, I worked in the Northwest Territories of Canada, where I built a savings buffer in addition to any potential scholarships. I have applied for scholarships for which I wasn't shortlisted, so I decided to self-fund my first year and relocate here. I continue to actively seek funding and am also working on developing a sustainable model to support my studies in the long term. In the meantime, my savings are covering my living expenses, and I’m seeking your support to help cover tuition and living costs, allowing me to focus fully on my research without the need to work full-time during my studies.

Specifically, your contributions will help cover:

• Tuition Fees: CAD 7,000/year

• Accommodation + Utilities: CAD 1,900/month

• Living Expenses (groceries, transport): CAD 500/month

Taking this leap of faith was a calculated risk, but I’m confident that by stumbling forward, everything will fall into place.

Join Me on This Journey

This fundraiser is more than a personal step—it's a leap toward a vision I deeply believe in. If my journey speaks to you, I would be honored to have your support in bringing this dream to life. Thank you for being part of something bigger.