2020 Student Poster Award

Although the 2020 World Congress of Music Therapy could not take place in person, the online event was very well supported by both professional and student music therapists from around the world. There were a number of student events, which were organised by the 2017-2020 Assembly of Student Delegates and the South African Student Events Committee. Of these events, one highlight was the Student Poster Session. Twenty posters were submitted by students from around the world, covering a wide range of topics, all of which showcased the authors’ unique perspectives.

The student poster award for the 2020 World Congress of Music Therapy was awarded to Nethaniëlle Mattison (South Africa), for her poster entitled, “Creating a safe space for the parents/guardians of paediatric oncology patients through music therapy groups in South Africa”. Enjoy reading the poster and the following speech from student poster award winner, Nethaniëlle Mattison:

What an interesting year. As a final year Music Therapy student from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, I was very excited to attend my first World Congress. How lucky we would have been for it to take place on our doorstep. Unfortunately, things turned out quite different. Instead, we experienced the first online Congress. What a privilege to be a part of new journeys and innovation even in the times of a global pandemic.

I am grateful to have received this award, however, I do feel the award belongs to the patients and guardians/parents of the Steve Biko Paediatric Oncology ward. I was lucky to be a witness and participant in a shared music space with them. In the midst of this pandemic and the continuously growing unknown around us I am constantly reminded of the human need for connection and to be seen and heard for who we are. Ultimately that is what we strive for in the fantastic profession of Music Therapy, to hear and see people for who they are. To be witnesses to people's journeys and to accompany our clients, even if only for a short while, as we figure out life together.

I would like to thank my lecturers Andeline Dos Santos, Carol Lotter and Kobie Swart for their continuous support throughout the past year and a half.