Wei Wang

Tell us a bit about your background

I am a PhD candidate studying at the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences at Durham University, and I am an international student from China. I am interested in communication resources for encouraging people with disabilities to be more physically active. This is also my PhD thesis. From my personal perspective, communication is important for us all because effective communication can help us to understand one another better and reduce misunderstandings. In the academic field, effective communication could be an effective intervention to encourage people to change their behaviours. Communication is life.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 

When I am free, I like making friends and listening to their experiences and stories. When we are chatting, we might choose to hike around Durham or have a coffee in a cafe. During the weekend, I like to play badminton, go hiking or take part in collaborative activities. Currently, I am a volunteer at Boccia Durham. I really enjoy this role and learn lots from this kind team. 

How did you get involved in the Fuse public partner network? 

I received an email from Fuse (maybe in 2020 during the pandemic period), and thought it might be a good chance for me to chat with others and to learn more knowledge related to my study. I attended the Fuse Public Partner Welcome event where I met new people. I listened to public partners talk about their experiences of getting involved in research, as well as Fuse researchers talking about how public involvement has shaped their work. Being part of the Fuse Public Partner Network is a good opportunity for me and the experience is useful for career development.

What areas of public health research are you particularly interested in? 

Public health research related to physical activity, disability and translational research. 

Have you been involved in research before? 

In past two years I have been doing my PhD studies and I have also joined a rapid evidence review project called “Physical activity for general health benefits in disabled children and disabled young people”. I am also involved in an Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) programme within the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences at Durham University. Being part of the Fuse Public Partner Network is my first time contributing to research specifically as a public partner.

Why is having your voice heard in public health research important to you? 

To find the best matching information and understand each other in a better way. 

What one piece of advice would you share with someone curious about public involvement and engagement? 

Do not be shy, present what you want to share with others, you will probably have a bit of fun along the way!

Last modified: Thu, 29 Sep 2022 13:35:58 BST