Speaker: Bradley Rink (University of the Western Cape)
In person at Niagara C0826 and on Zoom.
Abstract: This seminar presentation brings together results of two recent comparative studies employing an innovative peer research methodology to investigate walking experiences of young men (18-35 yr) in the context of low-income neighbourhoods in cities across the global North (UK) and South (South Africa). The studies span neighbourhoods in large urban areas of London and Cape Town to those in ’secondary’ cities situated in outlying counties/provinces that—while smaller and more compact than their metropolitan counterparts—are sites of population growth often lacking dense public transport networks. Reliance on walking in such cities may be even greater for young men. While knowledge of young women’s walking experiences has developed steadily over the past decade, young men’s walking journeys have been largely ignored. These studies seek to address this gap. Informed by literatures at the intersection of gender and everyday urban mobility practices, both studies are driven by an innovative peer research methodology emerging as a collaborative process of listening, co-creating and sharing knowledge about pedestrian mobilities of young men, mediated by the precarities of urban life. The method helps to unlock evidence of the embodied and social experiences of walking and writing research from the perspective of individuals who are experts in their own lives. Findings from both large metropolitan cities and smaller secondary cities bring to light young men’s experiences of navigating social, environmental and infrastructural challenges—while also highlighting their positive aspects. Across the study sites young men employ a range of tactics and strategies to ensure safe journeys while also recognising the potential value of safe walking for mental health and well-being. Together these studies help not only to highlight the challenges and opportunities inherent in walking, but also demonstrate how walking might contribute as a mode of transport with more equitable access and sustainability.
This seminar is part of the IUR Brown Bag Seminar Series. Bring your lunch! If you have any questions, please contact Defne Kadioglu and Julie Goodrich.