Huda Syyed, PhD

Learn with compassion, care and context.

HUDA SYYED_PhDcv and experiences

Hello,

I am an interdisciplinary researcher, facilitator and educator who is committed to compassion, care and context in my work. With a PhD from Charles Darwin University, I explore the rich and complex intersections of gendercultureminoritiesgender-based violence and bodily autonomy through qualitative methodology. I have spent the past 8 years focusing on Female Genital Cutting (FGC) and continue to develop resources and a contextual understanding aboout the practice.

I am also the Founder of Sahara Sisters Collective which is a support and growth platform for South Asian women who want mentoring, learning, collaboration and amplification.

I also have a Master’s degree in International Relations from QueenMary University of London and a Bachelor of Studies in International Relations from the University of Karachi. Initially, I was interested in global politics and social discrimination patterns; and later I became curious about how gender and culture influences politics, policy and society. This interest led to my specialised focus in gender-based violence and cultural contexts.

I’ve worked in teaching, research, editorial, and communications roles across universities and academic spaces. I’ve mentored students, coordinated community-based programs, and contributed to knowledge-making through creative efforts, translation and writing. This website is a collection of my work, thoughts, experiences and a medium to build collaborations. I am open to helping communities and working together, please get in touch.

Recent publications:

How to conduct intersectional feminist research with sensitive data in a precarious setting. Sage Research Methods: Data and Research Literacy.

Lack of data & dialogue on Female Genital Mutilation in Pakistan.

Reflexivity & positionality when researching Female Genital Cutting

Being a researcher: Finding balanceFemale genital cutting remains a taboo subject in Pakistan, preventing real progress from being made

Know more about my work, contributions and roles

I recorded my talk after winning 3 minute digital tools

Volunteering with organisations for advocacy and change

“I volunteer with organisations in multiple capacities. This includes online presenter for FGC awareness trainings and also collating data and advocacy on Female Genital Cutting. I have volunteered with organisations like Sahiyo and Asian Network to End FGM/C. My work is driven by commitment to address cultural practices through context, compassion and conversations.”

My submission for ACSPRI 2023

Snippets from my research journey

Winner of 3 minutes research research

“Coding through qualitative software like NVivo allows insight and deeper analysis into the contextual background of cultural practices. It provides a holistic picture of a practice, people and place. It also brings us closer to framing effective policies, legislature and having impactful conversations with communities.”

Huda Syyed, PhD

Quoted in Al Jazeera News:

“While doing my research, my approach was compassionate, contextual and community-focused because oftentimes communities are ostracised, persecuted and punished in different ways for customs and practices that are social norms, and sometimes they’re also besmirched and painted in a negative light.”

Creating and claiming spaces to have our voices heard

“I created this space to unlearn, connect, collaborate, co-create and grow. We have a number of activities and initiatives for voices and visibilities.”

Learning from CSW69 at the UN New York parallel events

“I attended a CSW69 parallel event at the UN Plaza in New York, 2025. Thanks to the wonderful people I volunteer with. It helped me build stronger connections and gave me a sense of community”

Blog posts, projects and events

Want to work with me?

Huda Syyed Consulting

ABN 66 397 716 251

Education, Awareness & Community Conversations
I design programs that translate complex social issues into accessible learning and dialogue.
My work builds awareness around gender, culture and social justice through participatory approaches.
(My recent work focuses on Female Genital Cutting (FGC)).

Research, Editing & Consultative Work
I provide high-quality research and writing support rooted in feminist and culturally sensitive approaches. Through consultative work, I help individuals and organisations shape ideas into strategies and outputs that make a difference.

Speaking Sessions, Webinars, Workshops & Lectures
I deliver engaging talks and learning experiences that bridge research with real-world practice.
My sessions focus on critical reflection on gender, culture and community.

Facilitation & Interactive Group Sessions
I design and lead inclusive, engaging sessions for meaningful dialogue, collaboration and collective problem-solving.

Book a free consult with me to see how we can work together.