Student Spotlight: Malick Gai
Meet Malick Gai, a final-year Master of International Affairs (MIA) candidate at Columbia SIPA. Malick specializes in Human Rights with a focus on Technology, Media and Communications, and Africa. Originally from The Gambia, his journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. After spending a decade as an asylum seeker in Hong Kong, Malick earned his undergraduate degree in International Journalism at Hong Kong Baptist University.
Fluent in four West African languages, Malick now works as an interpreter at the Columbia Law School Immigrants Rights Clinic and with NGOs across New York. His passion for understanding and addressing migration challenges is evident in his reporting, which explores the intersections of climate change, social media, and geopolitical factors that influence migration. His work has been published in The Guardian, Documented, and Asia Sentinel, where he continues to amplify critical issues and the voices of migrant communities.
In his recent article for The Guardian, titled “TikTok videos spread misinformation to new migrant community in New York City”, Malick delves into how social media influences migration decisions. He writes:
“Documented spoke with five Senegalese men who migrated to New York City in the past year who said that TikTok played a significant role in their decision to make the arduous journey to the US. Like thousands of other migrants who have made their way to the US from China, Latin America, and West Africa, these five men were inspired by testimonials from other migrants they saw on TikTok about their journeys to the city. And like many other migrants, they were frustrated that the hardship they faced in the US stood in stark contrast to the optimistic videos that inspired them to make the journey. Even after arriving in the US, TikTok continues to play an outsized role in their new lives.”
Malick’s reporting sheds light on the dangers of misinformation on platforms like TikTok. Highlighting the perspectives of Elora Mukherjee, a professor of law at Columbia Law School and director of the Immigrants’ Rights Clinic, he quotes:
“Migrant influencers are filling a void — sometimes providing hopeful information, but it might not always be truthful,” said Elora Mukherjee. She noted that it is dangerous to have some of the most commonly reiterated misinformation online about how it is ‘easy’ to travel, seek asylum, and work legally in the US.”
Through his academic studies, on-the-ground work, and compelling journalism, Malick Gai continues to advocate for migrant communities and unpack the complex realities they face.
Join us in celebrating Malick Gai, whose work embodies the mission of SIPA and IAS: to create a more informed and compassionate world.