5 Things We Learned... Natalie Dixon

Natalie Dixon has an excellent radar for all things gezellig. If it’s cozy, comfortable, homey, and welcoming, she will seek it out and share her findings with those lucky enough to know her. She’s personable and personal - she likes to hear your stories and welcomes you to tell them. As a writer, mobile researcher, and digital publisher, Natalie explores the emotional aspects of communication technologies within marginalized and vulnerable communities as well as the affective connection between people and mobile phones. In 2012, she co-founded Affect Lab, a research studio based in Amsterdam that investigates human relationships to technology. Her background is that of an editor and journalist, working on global editorial brands such as National Geographic, seventeen and Real Simple while based at Media24 in South Africa. She was also a consulting Digital Publisher for the Lloyd Hotel & Cultural Embassy in Amsterdam. In addition to her work at Affect Lab, Natalie is also a 2018-2019 Research Fellow at Het Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam, working on a project that explores female burnout through the lens of her Portuguese heritage. She is also a PhD Candidate in the Media & Communications Department at Goldsmiths College, University of London.

Here are 5 Things We Learned about Natalie.

What made you...you?

Growing up in a small town, living through apartheid in South Africa, The Face magazine, my grandmothers, British Vogue.

When are you happiest?

On my parents’ farm in South Africa, in summer.

Would you rather have a muse or be a muse?

Be a muse. Especially if it involved lavish amounts of positive affirmation.

Who do you admire?

Women, in general. I really think it takes enormous courage and resilience to Be Woman.

What is important?

Time. I enjoy taking time to reflect on my choices, my writing and experiences. Having time creates more meaningful work ultimately.