Out/Siders is both a supplement and prerequisite for the University of Agder’s UT-109 Field Course 2025. More than just a blog, it serves as a hub for Group One’s exploration of migration, belonging, and integration in Norway. Through stories, research, and reflections, we challenge stereotypes, amplify marginalized voices, and redefine inclusion. With bold insights and thoughtful dialogue, we aim to foster understanding, build resilience, and spark transformative conversations on identity, equality, and the societal dynamics that shape them.
Our team
M.J. Santos
Filipino-Norwegian gourmet organic gardener and singing samurai warrior tackling global issues with grit, flair, and a dash of nerdiness—unofficially the team’s Yoda, guiding the creative and tech chaos with wisdom (and occasional lightsaber)—blending diplomacy, geopolitics, international trade, mental health psychology, high finance, fintech, biotech, and agroecology, while adding global development to the mix to heal a wounded world like a mad extraterrestrial scientist from a galaxy far, far away.
Jose Fernando E. Lopez
Mexican-turned-Norwegian resident—formerly immersed in International Politics, now focused on Global Development—aspiring to tackle some of the world’s reasonable (read: solvable) problems, because hey, everything helps! The team's go-to radar for finding good Mexican food, drinks, and karaoke. If there’s guac, good vibes, or a mic, he’ll sniff it out faster than you can say ‘quesadilla.’
Hedda Stokkland
Norwegian Viking who grew up in America and graduated in Florida and somehow ended up studying Global Development in Kristiansand. (Don't ask, Uncle Leif Eriksson.) Learning languages? Love them. Dogs and cats? Obsessed. Karaoke Armageddon? She will unleash karaoke hits until you call a ceasefire, because let’s face it, she wants it that way.
Martina Paola Solinas
Bold Sardinian voyager on a relentless journey in Kristiansand, conquering Global Development studies. On a mission to challenge her own beliefs and worldview, not conquer the world—unless frozen pizza survival is at stake. Survived Norway's Grandiosa pizza and lived to tell the tale—thanks to her Sardinian genes that outlast everything and everyone! Despite being 'Italian' (but not really), navigating life on dubious dishes with a mission to make a monumental difference.
OUR VISION
Authentic Perspectives
Real stories, insights, and lived experiences from marginalized communities.
Critical Analysis
Thought-provoking research challenging stereotypes and exploring systemic issues in migration and integration.
Empowered Voices
Amplifying unheard voices to foster understanding, inclusivity, and meaningful social change.
OUR ADDRESS
Kristiansand Universitetet i Agder
Universitetsveien 25 D
4630 Kristiansand Norge