Help Aidan Present Trauma Play Research at ICGSS Conference

Hi, I’m Aidan Sunassee, a researcher and BSc graduate whose work centers on trauma, healing, and kink. I’m honored to share that I’ve been accepted to present my research at the 6th International Conference on Gender Studies and Sexuality, taking place in Berlin from August 8–10, 2025.

My oral presentation is based on my thesis titled "Healing Through Trauma Play: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Participants’ Personal Narratives," it explores how individuals use consensual trauma play within BDSM as a means of processing trauma, reclaiming agency, and fostering post-traumatic growth.

This research has been a deeply personal and meaningful journey—one rooted in advocacy, community visibility, and the belief that kink can be a powerful tool for healing when practiced ethically and intentionally. Being invited to share this work at such a conference as an emerging researcher is an incredible opportunity—not only for my academic and professional future, but also for amplifying voices and narratives that are too often misunderstood or pathologized.

Unfortunately, the conference does not offer any financial support, and as a recent graduate living six hours away from Berlin, I need to fund this trip myself. I'm asking for help to cover:

• Conference registration: €340
• Listener tickets for my two partners (who are accompanying me–see below): €140 each
• Accommodation in Berlin: approx. €250
• Travel costs: approx. €210 total
• Miscellaneous costs (food, local travel, emergency buffer): €120
• Total goal: €1,200

My partners are traveling with me to help provide emotional and logistical support during the conference and to assist with any accommodations I may need. Their presence is invaluable, and it’s important for me to show up grounded, supported, and able to fully engage.

I don’t take asking for help lightly. But even us hyperindependent individuals do need to lean into community and as we all know, advocacy work doesn't quite make us rich—I would be incredibly grateful for any support you can offer, whether through a donation or simply sharing this campaign.

As a thank-you, I’d be happy to send my presentation slides to donors after the conference upon request and answer any questions you might have about the research. If you’re passionate about trauma-informed care, kink visibility, or mental health, I hope you’ll consider helping me make this happen.

Thank you so much for being here, and for supporting this work.

With gratitude,

Aidan Sunassee