Gina Miyagawa is a Community Health Coordinator with HSE South-West and an advocate specialising in migration, diaspora studies, and the integration of Roma communities in Ireland. Possessing a profound commitment to social justice and community empowerment, I have devoted my career to addressing the diverse needs of marginalised groups through rigorous research, educational initiatives, and strategic policy development. My extensive expertise in these areas enables me to effectively contribute to the advancement of equitable social structures and foster inclusive environments for underrepresented communities.
I hold a Bachelor of Social Science in Youth and Community Work from University College Cork, where I graduated with First Class Honours in Research Methods and Techniques and earned the prestigious title of College Scholar. Subsequently, I obtained a Master’s degree in Contemporary Migration and Diaspora Studies, with a focus on Immigration and Refugee Law. My MA thesis, which examined the experiences of undocumented Romanian migrants in Ireland, received national recognition at a prominent conference at Trinity College, highlighting my contributions to the field.
Throughout my career, I have developed a diverse portfolio of roles in education, community development, and advocacy. Notable positions include serving as the Roma Accommodation and Health Coordinator with HSE South East and Youth Work Ireland Tipperary, where I conducted a Needs Assessment study and facilitated access to critical services for Roma communities in County Tipperary.
As the Roma Education Officer with the NTRIS STAR initiative, I promoted Cultural Awareness training aimed at informing educators and policymakers about the complex heritage and challenges faced by young Roma students and their communities. I have diligently dedicated my efforts to supporting young Roma students in their educational pursuits, thereby enhancing their attendance and academic performance in school. In collaboration with Roma children in Cork City and facilitated by the Kids Own Publishing Company, we undertook a book writing project that resulted in the creation of the book titled “The Real Us”. This publication aims to enhance the understanding of Roma students and their families among educators and other stakeholders. Accompanied by a comprehensive classroom resource, this book serves as a valuable addition to existing pedagogical tools, promoting a deeper awareness of culturally diverse children within educational settings. We invited educators to embark on a transformative journey with us—one that sought to dismantle barriers, foster solidarity, and expand opportunities not only for Roma children but also for students from various cultural backgrounds around the world.
As an integral member of the NTRIS Steering Committee, the Education Strategy Committee, and the Advisory Committee for the National Action Plan Against Racism, I play a vital role in shaping national policies that promote equality and inclusion for Roma and other migrant communities in Ireland. My involvement underscores a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities and promoting social justice in educational and policy frameworks.
Proficient in both English and Romanian, I demonstrate strong communication and mediation skills across various contexts. My advocacy and collaborative methodologies reflect a dedicated commitment to establishing equitable solutions and opportunities for marginalised populations, particularly within the Roma community.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I am deeply committed to the art of writing, active participation in community initiatives, and disseminating my knowledge to foster constructive transformation. My aspiration is to contribute to the development of a more inclusive society. Through my leadership and unwavering dedication to social justice, I aim to exert a meaningful influence on numerous individuals and communities.