REGINA — What began as a deeply personal journey has become a powerful piece of research that is resonating far beyond the classroom.
Kamogelo Amanda Matebekwane, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Education at the University of Regina, is drawing attention across Western Canada after winning her university’s Three Minute Thesis competition with a presentation titled Present yet Invisible: The Realities of African Children in Canadian Classrooms.
While she did not place at the Western Regional finals held May 4 at Darke Hall, Matebekwane says the experience marked a meaningful milestone in a journey defined by purpose, persistence, and impact.
“I feel like a winner because I did my best, I presented my research with confidence and most of all, I had so much fun on that stage,” Matebekwane expressed.
The Three Minute Thesis competition, known globally as 3MT, challenges graduate students to distill years of complex academic research into a clear, compelling three-minute presentation using just one static slide. The Western Regional event brought together top presenters from 17 universities, showcasing research designed to inform, challenge, and inspire.
For Matebekwane, the challenge was not just about simplifying academic language. It was about honouring the voices behind her research.
A story rooted in lived experience
Originally from Botswana (a country in the centre of Southern Africa) and now based in Regina since 2017, Matebekwane said her work was inspired by her own children’s struggles navigating the education system as newcomers.
“Because of the struggles of my kids, I was interested to learn how other kids are coping,” she explained.
Her research focuses on African immigrant children between the ages of six and 11, drawing directly from their lived experiences. Over the course of her work, she visited families in their homes, listening as children shared stories that were both deeply personal and widely reflective of broader systemic challenges.
Those stories revealed patterns of racism, exclusion, and cultural absence in classrooms.
“They described facing racism from teachers, administrators, bus drivers, and peers,” Matebekwane stated, adding that many children also spoke about not seeing their identities reflected in what they learn.
The result, she found, is a quiet but powerful impact.
“They attend school every day, but at the same time, they feel invisible.”
That insight became the foundation of her award-winning presentation.
Why the message matters
Matebekwane’s research goes beyond highlighting problems. It challenges educators and systems to rethink what inclusion truly means.
She argues that recognizing identity is not optional. It is essential to achieving equity.
Her findings show that when children do not see themselves represented, they often begin to suppress parts of who they are. That can lead to diminished confidence, emotional strain, and a weakened sense of belonging.
At the same time, the children she worked with offered solutions.
Some suggested simple but meaningful changes, such as cultural days where students can share their traditions, clothing, and food. Others called for more diverse representation in classroom materials and teaching practices.
“They want to feel seen,” Matebekwane said. “They want to feel valued.”
From research to real-world impact
The 3MT competition became a platform to bring those voices into the spotlight.
Matebekwane said transforming academic research into a three-minute presentation required multiple drafts, extensive feedback, and a complete shift in communication style.
“I had to step away from academic writing and make my message clear and accessible,” she explained.
That process, she added, strengthened her ability to connect with broader audiences and reinforced the importance of making research meaningful beyond university walls.
“One thing I learned is how to communicate my research in a clear and succinct manner,” she said.
The response has been powerful. Support from the University of Regina community, friends, and family created what she described as one of the most emotional moments of her journey.
“I nearly broke down when I saw the support. It meant everything.”
Looking ahead
While the competition chapter may be closing, Matebekwane says her work is far from over.
She plans to continue her research, expand into social justice initiatives, and mentor future students interested in sharing their work through platforms like 3MT.
“At this point, I want to open doors for others,” she expressed.
Her long-term vision is rooted in transformation.
“I envision schools becoming safe spaces that recognize each child, value them as human beings, and support their dreams.”
