About the Network
The RSA Women’s Network is a space for women across the Regional Studies Association community to connect and share experiences and issues that matter most to them in academic and professional life. Open to women at all career stages, from students to senior academics and practitioners, the Network exists to build a supportive, informal community where women can speak openly about the realities of working in regional studies and related fields.
Conversations within the Network cover a wide range of topics, including career progression, work-life balance, international collaborations, navigating academic structures, managing care responsibilities alongside research and teaching, and broader questions of equity and representation within the discipline. The aim is not just to discuss but also to create peer support and practical solutions that can be carried into institutions and working life.
Hybrid Events at RSA Conferences
The Women’s Network is committed to holding a hybrid session at every in-person RSA Annual Conference, ensuring that members can take part whether they are attending in the room or joining remotely. This ongoing commitment reflects the Network’s recognition that flexibility matters, caring responsibilities, travel costs, and other commitments can make in-person attendance difficult, and the hybrid format means no one has to miss out on the discussion.
These sessions typically take the shape of facilitated discussions, panel conversations, or informal networking gatherings, giving members the chance to meet one another, hear from peers at different career stages, and discuss themes such as collaborative working and care in academia. Details of each conference’s Women’s Network session are shared in advance via RSA communications channels.
We were delighted to have Sandy MacDonald present her experiences of International Collaborations at the 2026 Annual Conference, which generated much discussion amongst participants. Click the link to find her International Collaborations presentation.
Stay Connected: WhatsApp Group
Between conferences, members can stay in touch through the Network’s WhatsApp group, an informal, ongoing space for conversation and community building. It is simple to ask questions and share opportunities here, with others who understand the day-to-day challenges of academic and professional life.
If you would like to join the WhatsApp group, please get in touch with Alex from the RSA team, who will be happy to provide more information.
Get Involved
The RSA Women’s Network is open to all RSA members who identify as women and want to be part of this community. Whether you are looking to attend a conference session, join the WhatsApp group, or simply find out more, get in touch with us.
Women's Network Events
RSA26 
Workshop 
Workshop 
RSA25