About Our Podcast

The Migration Menu is an exciting new podcast series that explores journeys from South Asia to West London, through food. Anthropologists Luke and James examine how nostalgia and authenticity creates a "home away from home" for migrants and diaspora in host countries.

All Episodes

Our Team

Luke Heslop

Host

I have been living and working in Sri Lanka on and off for the last twenty years. I have also worked in the Maldives and Bangladesh. I grew up in Lincolnshire but live in South London with my wife and three children. Favourite dish: Wambatu Moju.

James Staples

Host

I have been travelling to and conducting research in India for four decades - arriving in Mumbai on Independence Day 1984. I love long-distance running, walking my dog (Winnie), and mixing cocktails. Favourite dish: Masala Dosa.

Vimal Dalal

Multimedia Specialist

I am a multimedia specialist within the Digital Education team. I specialise in recording and editing high quality learning audio/video content with academic staff for teaching and learning for use with Brunel's learning platforms. Favourite dish: Mumbai Street food Pav Bhaji.

Tina Boulton

Media Intern

I am an undergraduate anthropology student. I live on a boat with my daughter and chihuahua, having travelled the Kennet and Avon canal and the Thames to settle in London. I love sewing and making my own clothes or reading in the garden and watching the boats go by. Favourite dish: Chicken and Mushroom risotto.

Esther Opoku Debra

Research Intern

I am an anthropology student at Brunel University. I was originally born in Italy to Ghanaian parents but now live in Reading. As it happens, I love learning about different cultures, languages and foods. In my spare time, I love to read comics, play video games and go to as many concerts as possible. Favourite dish: Shawarma.