My thesis
My thesis examines how women in Paulatuk, a remote community in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR) of Canada's Arctic, experience and manage Type 2 and gestational diabetes. Focusing on the intersections of gender, Indigeneity, and food access, I explore how these factors influence women's ability to prevent, manage, and potentially reverse their diabetes.
The research centers on three key participant groups: women living with diabetes, healthcare providers (including allied health professionals), and program planners for healthy living initiatives. Each group offers a unique perspective on the challenges of living with diabetes in the Arctic, and together, they are essential for developing effective healthcare pathways for diabetes care in the ISR.
Using a community-based participatory action approach, my study addresses critical knowledge gaps around the underlying causes of diabetes in the ISR and explores sustainable solutions for improving community health and well-being. In addition to my research, I will collaborate with a nutritionist from the Government of Northwest Territories to lead a diabetes education workshop in Paulatuk, directly engaging with the community to share knowledge and resources.
My time in the School of Public Health Sciences (SPHS)
I have always known that I wanted to attend graduate school and become a researcher, and I credit my confidence, skills, and research opportunities to my time in the SPHS. SPHS provided a solid foundation for my academic journey, starting with my role as a research assistant, completing my honors undergraduate thesis, and presenting my thesis poster at the inaugural Research and Practice in Health Sciences Conference at the University. A particular highlight of my experience is now serving as co-chair of that conference, where I have the opportunity to foster a passion for research among both graduate and undergraduate students. It also allows me to celebrate the impactful research being conducted by SPHS students across various areas of health and well-being.