And there it is! The title that I've happily struggled on paper and orally for four years! I'm officially a PhD (Dr Luis Maia de Freitas). Last week, 18th of September, I successfully defended my dissertation in ancient cities in Greco-Roman Syria and Mesopotamia while employing Homi Bhabha's concepts of hybridity and the third space. Not only the topic was a hard one, but the experience of researching and writing at a level of a PhD opened various opportunities to showcase my research internationally, as well as enhancing my current skills for both the academic and industry worlds. Most importantly, throughout this positive journey is the amount of contacts and friendships I will keep them for life, from supervisors to PhD colleagues and friends; from entrepreneurs to scholars. That is what makes a PhD journey fulfilling, and not just sitting down and do your research, where having a life balance helps you to store energy to absorb more knowledge. In sum, between the 1st of July 2021 until the 18th of September 2025 (and with a six month corrections lasting until March 2026), here's a breakdown of my journey beyond the thesis: Self-funded my PhD by working part-time at a restaurant to prepare and serve food, and other jobs as a teaching assistant, cover supervisor and student leader to deliver workshops, mark assessments and supervising pupils to collect and invest my pocket-money; Participated in 6 international conferences and organised, as well as spearheaded 3 of them to share different topics in ancient history and classics towards 500+ speakers and attendants, including scholars and PhD candidates; Created PhD Lounge podcast since the 29th of June 2021, leading me to two awards: Outstanding contributor for the PGR community of Swansea University and to the top 40 best PhD podcast content. Had chats and made friends with different PhDs across the world, and continuing to do so to increase my outreach internationally; Three industry placements in education and corporate social responsibility community projects: The Brilliant Club, Rewise Ltd (still working there), and MFL Languages (will start soon).

Gentleman, Wishing you all a great Saturday. Went today to an art gallery about cultural relationships between India and Wales during the British Empire. This was my OOTD to visit the exhibition with style: Beige cotton and linen blend long sleeved polo shirt from Massimo Dutti Assorted Jewellery and Timberland 2012 quartz watch Ltd Brown corduroy sherpa jacket from H&M Grey suit trousers from Next Brown suede chelsea boots from Marks and Spencer The last picture is a tapestry representing the British Empire, the Welsh dragon and the Bengal tigers that were the symbol of the Indian companies. Have a nice weekend.

Gentlemen, Today was a rainy Wednesday and this is what I wore: Levi’s denim shirt Rainproof jacket from Jack and Jones Black Levi’s 510 Black leather Chelsea boots from Dr Martens Casio black watch Assorted jewellery Have a lovely Wednesday everyone!

Gentlemen, Fall is here—and this is one of the best seasons for men’s style. You’ve got cooler weather, which means you can finally layer without sweating through your shirt. You’ve got rich textures like tweed, flannel, and corduroy that add depth to your outfits. And you’ve got boots—arguably the most masculine footwear a man can own. This month we’re focusing on one thing: mastering Fall style. Here’s where I want you to dial in: 1. Layering without bulk – Jackets, sweaters, shirts. Done right, you look sharp. Done wrong, you look sloppy. 2. The right pair of boots – Not sneakers, not loafers. Boots. They make a statement. 3. Seasonal colors & fabrics – Earth tones, heavier weaves, and clothes that look like they belong in Fall—not Summer leftovers. 4. Smart upgrades – A scarf, a better jacket, maybe just swapping out those worn-out shoes. Small changes, big impact. 👉 Your action: Share one Fall upgrade you’re making this month. It can be a piece of clothing, a style habit, or even just committing to putting more effort into your look. This theme is going to guide our discussions, tips, and challenges all September long. Let’s make sure when October rolls in, you’re not just “dressed for the weather”—you’re leading with style.

I just want to say thank you to @Antonio Centeno and his team as well as all of my fellow RMRS members for selecting my entry for the fragrance giveaway. I will try it out and give everyone the best review that I can.