Ying Lai from Beijing Normal University, China, was awarded a travel grant to present two papers in Lyon: "Interactive video and anonymous divination: religious culture in streaming media" to the Religion and Communication working group and "Film digital archives and urban cultural creative clusters: the reproduction and communication of visual culture" to the Visual Culture Working Group.
In the article below, she reflects about the conference and how it enriched her academic life beyond borders:
I am sincerely grateful to the organizing committee of IAMCR 2023 for affording me the chance to journey to Lyon, France. Special appreciation goes to Professor Elske van de Fliert, the Finance Director, whose unwavering support guided me throughout the entire process, ensuring the seamless execution of the first in-person IAMCR meeting post-COVID-19.
Before Lyon 2023, I had participated in virtual meetings for a span of three years, acquainting myself with the way of distant communication. Nevertheless, Lyon 2023 introduced me to the realm of possibilities that offline gatherings offer. The ambiance of the University of Lyon 1, where the event took place, immersed me in the zeal of the scholarly attendees. Their active engagement in each plenary session ignited the spirits of the youth, propelling them to persistently contribute to the future advancement of communication studies. These sessions served as catalysts, motivating the younger generation to dedicate themselves to the field's forthcoming growth. The bold exchange of ideas shattered the information discrepancies imposed by geographical separations.
I hold this opportunity in high regard, particularly in my capacity as a member of the Religious Communication and Visual Culture groups. Being a part of working groups has bestowed upon me a deeper appreciation for the significance of communication and the communal backing that peers provide. IAMCR has offered us the belief that topics of worth are never disregarded solely due to their limited popularity. It assures us that we will eventually find kindred spirits who share exhilarating concepts, transcending the boundaries of conventional popularity.
Ying Lai
IAMCR travel grants are funded with a percentage of all IAMCR membership payments plus the voluntary contributions of IAMCR members and supporters.