As you delve into the pages of this first volume of Road to PhD you are embarking on a journey that transcends the mere acquisition of knowledge about doctoral studies and delves deep into the essence of scholarly identity development. This book, with its focus on authors’ reflections on their doctoral journeys, offers a peculiar and profound perspective on the transformative process of pursuing a doctorate in different geographic locations. Each story shared in this volume is a testament to the resilience, passion, and dedication that characterises the doctoral experience, and is unique for each individual contributor.

Contributors are: Danille Elize Arendse, Kyle John Bester, Sibonelo Blose, Thokozane Dyosini, Nonjabulo Fortunate Madonda, Rose Satsope Maoto, Paul Maluleka, Motshidisi Masilo, Lynette Lulama Mbatha, Sithembele Goodman Ndovela, Ntombizandile Gcelu, Fui Fong Jiew, Zingiswa Jojo, Samantha Kriger, Mamochana Anacletta Ramatea and Free-Queen Bongiwe Zulu.