Global change makers invited to join international conference

Wednesday 29 April 2026

Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is inviting researchers, creatives and movement organisers to be part of a major international communication conference in Palmerston North this June.

The International Communication Association’s (ICA) annual conference or Oceania Hub is being hosted by Massey’s Centre for Culture-Centred Approach to Research and Evaluation (CARE), from 6 to 7 June, with sessions held both online and on the Manawatū campus. 

Dean's Chair in Communication Professor Mohan Dutta says the event creates an opportunity to bring global conversations into a local context.

“This is part of the flagship conference of the International Communication Association, and hosting a regional hub here means we can connect scholars and communities in Aotearoa directly into those global conversations.”

At its core, the event focuses on how communication shapes society, from media and digital platforms to activism, public discourse and community voice.

Professor Dutta says the aim is to create a space that connects academic research with real-world practice.

“The hub brings together scholars alongside organisers, activists, trade unionists and community partners to think about how communication works in practice, and how it can support more just and equitable societies.”

Submissions are open across a wide range of formats, including academic papers, panels, workshops and creative projects. The call also invites contributions to a collaborative Living Lexicon of Liberation session, exploring how language shapes the way social issues are understood and discussed. 

The two-day programme will include presentations, discussions and collaborative sessions, with both in-person and online options designed to make participation accessible to a wide range of contributors.

Submissions are now open, with abstracts due by 2 May. The event will take place on the Manawatū campus, with further details on registration to be released.

Abstracts should be sent to M.J.Dutta@massey.ac.nz. 

Related news

Massey to host Oceania Hub of the International Communication Association conference

Friday 6 June 2025

Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is set to host the Oceania Hub of the International Communication Association’s (ICA) conference from 13 to 16 June.

Massey University professor elected as ICA fellow

Friday 5 July 2024

Head of School of Communication, Journalism and Marketing (CJM) Professor Stephen Croucher was elected a Fellow at the International Communication Association (ICA) conference last month.