People

Monika is a Fulbright Scholar from Cambodia with extensive experience in broadcast media, creative agencies, and nonprofits. Previously, she worked as a screenwriter for BBC Media Action and served as a communications consultant on social protection for the International Labour Organization (ILO).

For her master’s thesis, she is writing a screenplay that explores the precarious nature of creative freelance jobs facilitated by the rise of the gig economy and communication technology advancements. In the slice-of-life and drama genres, the story follows the journey of Lily, a Cambodian graphic designer. Lily navigates the world of remote freelancing in the U.S. from the comfort of her home in Phnom Penh City, where she lives with her widowed father and a calico cat.

My name is Synne Flem and I'm a 27-year-old from Norway, currently engaged in graduate studies in media here at Queens College. My academic path began here when I pursued my bachelor's degree in media studies, while also playing soccer for the college's women's team. The transition from undergraduate to graduate student was motivated by a deep interest in enhancing inclusivity in sports. This passion was ignited by confronting homophobia online while I was working for a men's soccer team in Queens. My experiences have driven me to focus on how we can cultivate a more welcoming and inclusive environment in sports settings, with a particular emphasis on the role of media. 

This thesis investigates the enduring presence of homophobia in male sports, contrasting with society's growing acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. It focuses on the role of online "manosphere" forums in shaping young boys' perceptions of masculinity, leading to reinforced homophobic attitudes in sports. The research aims to highlight how these digital spaces influence the construction of masculinity and the stigma surrounding gay male athletes, challenging the inclusivity efforts within broader societal contexts. 

Carla is a researcher, communication consultant and media producer interested in civic engagement for media democratization. She has spent the last nine years designing advocacy and media strategies for civil society organizations that support women's rights, education, media literacy, and mental health in the United States, Peru and Chile. Her current work at Queens College is focused on indigenous communities' civic engagement and the Political Economy analysis of Peruvian media.

More of Carla's work is here: https://carlacportfolio.tumblr.com/