Selina’s dissertation title was: Four seasons of hegemony: an analysis of the embodied and discursive practices which enable gendered, hegemonic structures in elite restaurants.
The RGS Food Geographies Research Group judging panel were particularly impressed by Selina’s “well-considered and sophisticated review of relevant literature, insightful reflections on ethical and access issues, and ability to interweave clear analysis of empirical material with discussions of conceptual and theoretical matters.”
They also praised her ethnographic passages, which “captured the experience of being in the research site” and her clarity of writing which “made this a joy… to read”.
Selina explained some of the thinking behind her dissertation subject: “Food shapes all aspects of our lives and the world around us. From our landscapes to our bodies, our politics and trade, it is far more than just what we put in our mouths. Restaurants play such a significant role in our food system, influencing what and how we cook and eat. If we are to try and create a more sustainable and equitable food system, we must truly reflect on this significance.”
Selina has previously volunteered with Foodhall in Sheffield, campaigned for a National Food Service, and is currently working as a commis chef at the restaurant on which her dissertation is based.