Introducing New Human Rights Program Staff Member

Nyakueth is a senior completing a Bachelor of Individualized Studies with concentrations in Psychology, Family Social Science, and Global Studies. In addition to being a communications intern with the Human Rights Program, she is currently participating a Family Social Science faculty-led independent study about war trauma and cultural healing approaches. This is in order to set the stage for research to create and implement culturally specific treatment plans. By including a Global Studies concentration in her degree, she hopes to gain world knowledge necessary for future research in mental health. 

HRP: What sparked your interest in Human Rights work? 

NB: am interested in human rights work due to my family having experienced human rights violations during the Sudanese regime. My parents are refugees that immigrated after a civil war and subsequent acts of genocide. This resulted in my passion for dedicating my career to working for refugees and groups who have experienced trauma. I initially entered undergrad on a solely psychology track, but I realized I could do more meaningful work outside of the lab and better serve my overall career goals. My interest for human rights advocacy is coupled with a concern for ethics and a desire to use my abilities to be of service to others. 

HRP: How do you plan on working within the realm of Human Rights in the future?

NB: I hope to work in the government sector specifically in South Sudan to lobby against the deeply rooted corruption and help implement transitional justice policies. I view access to mental health services as a human right and a necessary aspect of reparations post-genocide. 

HRP: How does the internship tie to your academic coursework?

NB: Last semester, I took Professor Alejandro Baer's course on Memory and Poliitics after Genocide (GLOS/SOC 4315). Among the topics we explored were amnesty, transitional justice, and human rights. He recommended Barbara Frey's internship course, which led me to my position in the Human Rights Program. By taking Global Studies courses and working with Professor Frey, I am gaining a better understanding of the populations I want to serve while also gaining valuable knowledge for advocacy.

HRP: What are you looking to gain during your time working for the Human Rights Program? 

NB: I’d like to establish important marketing skills and experience in diverse writing. I also look forward to serving the department and doing the work necessary for keeping everyone informed on events and all of the amazing work my peers are doing in and after the program.