Nikolina Kovacevic

My fascination for Latin America truly found its roots in my final year of undergraduate study in French and Spanish at Durham University where I explored Peru through my dissertation. I investigated the concept of ‘double colonization’ and the representation of Quechua women through the films ‘La Teta Asustada’ (2009) and ‘Canción sin Nombre’ (2019). Through this research, I developed a profound interest in indigenous communities throughout Latin America.

I chose to apply for the MSc course as I was inspired by the possibility to further explore my research, but with a focus in Mexico and Colombia. The interdisciplinary approach to the programme provides an incredible foundation upon which I can pursue this avenue. I was similarly drawn to the course for its breadth – each module offers you the chance to explore a different Spanish speaking country which is quite amazing!

Having grown up near Wormwood Scrubs (a prominent prison in London), I have always been captivated by how prison systems and organised crime functions. Through this course, I can combine my adoration for Latin America with my research questions relating to crime. I am excited to explore the Politics of Brazil module and to start learning Portuguese through the Language Centre. I hope to produce comparative research on the role of music (such as baile funk) in organised crime in both Brazil and Colombia.