Identity, Power and Belonging in Contemporary Societies: Botho mo Setšhabeng
The Centre for Contemporary Identity and Diversity Studies (CCIDS) at the North-West University proudly presents its Official Launch Conference, taking place on 6–7 August 2026 at the Riverside Sun Hotel, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa.
This landmark conference brings together leading academics, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, students, and community stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue on some of the most pressing social issues of our time. Through interdisciplinary scholarship and collaborative engagement, delegates will explore how identity, diversity, power, justice, and belonging shape contemporary societies both within South Africa and across the globe.
Rooted in the conference theme, "Identity, Power and Belonging in Contemporary Societies: Botho mo Setšhabeng", the conference seeks to promote critical conversations that advance inclusive knowledge production, social justice, and sustainable societal transformation.
What to Expect
Over two days, delegates will experience a vibrant programme featuring:
- An official launch of the Centre for Contemporary Identity and Diversity Studies (CCIDS)
- Distinguished keynote addresses by internationally recognised scholars
- Parallel paper presentation sessions showcasing current interdisciplinary research
- A high-level panel discussion exploring identity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice in today's global context
- Interactive workshops focusing on ethical research, international collaboration, research impact, and community engagement
- A research poster exhibition highlighting emerging scholarship
- Networking opportunities with national and international academics
- The CCIDS Gala Dinner celebrating the official launch of the Centre
- Awards recognising outstanding conference papers and poster presentations.
Conference Themes
The conference welcomes scholarship addressing a wide range of contemporary issues, including:
- Identity, belonging and citizenship
- Gender, sexuality and transformative justice
- Decoloniality, Africanisation and indigenous knowledge systems
- Social justice, inclusion and human rights
- Health, well-being and community development
- Heritage, culture and memory
- Education and social transformation
- Diversity in higher education and society
- Disability justice and inclusive development
- Community engagement and sustainable futures.
Whether you are an established researcher, an emerging scholar, a postgraduate student, or a professional working in the fields of identity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice, the CCIDS Conference provides an exceptional opportunity to exchange ideas, inspire collaboration, and contribute to shaping more inclusive societies.
We look forward to welcoming you to Vanderbijlpark as we launch the Centre for Contemporary Identity and Diversity Studies and embark on this exciting new chapter together.