DESCRIPTION OF TOPIC:
This presentation reflects on a qualitative study conducted with 25 midwives in two rural hospitals in Uganda, originally focused on their perceptions of quality care during childbirth. While the findings of the study will not be disclosed, this talk focuses on an unexpected discovery about the research process itself. Surprisingly, the participation in the study emerged as a meaningful and reflective experience for many participants. As midwives shared their daily challenges and values during focus group discussions, many expressed how powerful it was simply to be heard, with one midwife remarking that the conversation reminded her of the importance of her work. This insight shifted the researcher’s perspective, highlighting how qualitative research can offer more than just data: it can also serve as a space for midwives to reflect, feel acknowledged, and reconnect with their professional identity. In this way, research becomes not only a tool for understanding practice but also a support to empower midwives.

RELEVANCE TO MIDWIFERY:
In a time of global midwifery workforce shortages and increasing emotional burden, this presentation explores how research can act as a mutual exchange, both gathering insight and giving something back. To sustain their essential role in maternal health, we must do more than just study midwives - we must actively support them. When approached with care, research can be integrated into supportive structures such as supervision, mentorship, and training. These moments of reflection can help midwives recharge, reconnect with their purpose, and feel inspired in their important work. Nurturing passion in midwives should not be a luxury; it is a necessity for improving maternal health and making care systems more sustainable. Education - student experience 1 (including three-minute presentation competition)