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 Hello Young Ceramists!

Muthusundar Kumar, a young ceramist hailing from the shores of Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu, India. Currently delves into doctoral research in collaboration with the University of Mons in Belgium and the Polytechnic University of Hauts-de-France in Maubeuge.

My journey into ceramics commenced at CSIR-NIIST, Trivandrum in India, where I explored the realm of clay and high-temperature ceramics. Genuinely, YCN was a hidden gem to me until I started looking for a PhD position in Europe. It was a pleasant surprise to find out about YCN through a LinkedIn post from one of our YCN committee members.

As a beacon of hope, YCN offers a platform for budding ceramists like myself to connect, collaborate, and flourish. Intrigued by its mission to foster innovation and collaboration within the ceramic community, I was eager to discover what lay beyond. This curiosity came to life during the 3rd YCN workshop at Aveiro in Portugal, the first event during my PhD journey. Undoubtedly, YCN serves as a model for teamwork and networking, also contributing to enriching personal skills such as public presentations and leadership qualities, crucial for a ceramist's success in academia and industry alike. It was then that I resolved to become a part of YCN, contribute to its vibrant community, and carry forward its mission.

My determination lies in spotlighting young ceramists across India, bridging the gap between the European and Indian ceramic communities through YCN. This endeavour promises progress in collaboration and mutual growth.

Today, as I reflect on my path, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities that YCN has bestowed upon me. It is more than just a network-it is a community, a family, united by a shared passion for young ceramists and a collective vision for the future. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the JECS trust for sponsoring YCN and other travel grants, enabling me and other young ceramists to thrive.

Thrilled to serve as one of India's YCN representatives, I eagerly anticipate the journey ahead.

Muthusundar Kumar

Doctoral researcher

Laboratory of Polymeric and Composite Materials,

Place du Parc 20, University of Mons, Belgium.

muthusundar.kumar@umons.ac.be