Meet one of our newest members, Casey Trownson.

Casey is an emerging researcher and Registered Nurse with a clinical background spanning mental health and primary healthcare. Currently a Nursing Lecturer at Te Kura Matatini o Taranaki - Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki, Casey has developed an interest in the use of play as a pedagogical approach in adult education.

"I am curious about learning beyond traditional approaches and invite learners to create, experiment, problem-solve, and, dare to have fun. My work explores how creative and experiential approaches can enhance learner engagement, strengthen problem-solving skills, and create psychologically safe environments in which challenging topics can be explored.

Current projects include exploring LEGO® Serious Play® to teach Te Tiriti o Waitangi in nursing practice. Concurrently, I am also refining my capability with the micro-skills of research, in preparation for my first solo research endeavour. My involvement with ANZAHPE has been particularly significant in this journey. As an emerging researcher, I had heard that ANZAHPE was a welcoming and first-timer-friendly conference, and this proved to be true when I attended my first conference in Ōtautahi Christchurch 2026. I first heard about ANZAHPE through an email thread at work. Presenting felt like an achievable step because the conference welcomed innovations as well as more formal research. This made the idea of presenting feel accessible rather than intimidating.

What I did not anticipate was just how valuable the experience would be. The tautoko (support) and genuine interest I received throughout the conference gave me confidence to continue developing my research skills and to recognise that there is a place for emerging researchers within this community. For me, ANZAHPE has become more than a conference; it has been an important part of finding my feet as a researcher and discovering the value of sharing ideas, asking questions, and doing things differently."