Project Overview
This project examines the systemic barriers and their intersectionality with the social determinants of health, shaping individual experiences and outcomes. By identifying and naming these barriers, we aim to demonstrate that social determinants are rooted in broader structural systems, not solely in individuals. Although these systems influence everyone, their effects are distributed unevenly. Our aim is to illustrate that the root of social determinants lies within systemic conditions, not in individual attributes.
The survey itself should take about 2–5 minutes* to fill out and is completely anonymous. Collected information will be used for ethical storytelling purposes only.
*per section
Target Audience
Anyone affiliated with the University of Waterloo in any capacity! Ranging from staff, students, faculty, everyone is welcome to participate.
Timeline
The survey will close July 31. 2026, and the expected rollout of the video will be end of August.
Reason.
Society is built systematically and structurally, providing those with resources to flourish whilst prohibiting those who lack the connection; as mentioned by Omar El Akkad in his book One day, everyone will have always been against this "A hard ceiling for some, no floor for others". Problems which individuals face are often siloed due to factors such as stigma, fear of judgement, myths of meritocracy, ultimately grounded in an unsupportive built environment.
Purpose.
Individual problems which people face are often made to be seen as self-inflicted harm, rather than a systemic problem – isolating individuals to face their problems themselves. The matrix of privilege and unearned advantages are often oblivious, redesigning social systems requires awareness to the problem at hand. This project is being done to highlight and showcase marginalized voices and experiences, ultimately raising awareness that problems are often systemic in nature.
Production.
This project aims to create a public service announcement through creating a video from community, for community. Showcasing true lived experiences of the UWaterloo community will aim to destigmatize problems which often go unsaid, and create a sense of community and connectedness. Ultimately aiming to create awareness on the importance and lasting impacts on our health and wellness.
*Disclaimer: This project is not to discredit individual experiences, rather to demonstrate systemic power.
For any inquires please contact: aeco-op@uwaterloo.ca