Child and Youth Healthy Futures Lab
Lead investigator: Carla Hilario
Our lab aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of children and youth. We study the structural and social determinants of youth mental health and mental health care inequities, with a focus on the needs of underserved and equity-deserving young people, and use research evidence to inform and advance equity-oriented interventions.
We use a range of research approaches such as mixed methods, administrative health data analysis, qualitative description, critical design methods, and concept mapping. Our projects are informed by youth participatory action approaches, integrated knowledge translation, and an intersectional lens.
Current projects are examining associations between racial discrimination experiences and adolescent mental health; exploring youth perspectives and experiences of racism in relation to healthcare access, use, and quality; and engaging Indigenous and newcomer youth in dialogues about truths and actions needed for anti-racism and reconciliation futures.
Mischa Taylor, Research Coordinator
Mischa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Ecology and a Master’s degree in Community Engagement from the University of Alberta. Mischa has been involved in community-based projects exploring newcomers’ psychosocial adaptation, youth mental health, and more.
Pavan nahal, Research Assistant
Pavan is a Graduate Academic Assistant at UBCO’s Child and Youth Healthy Futures lab. Pavan supports participant recruitment and data collection. Alongside her research experience, Pavan is completing her Master of Social Work (Clinical) at the University of British Columbia.
Jacklyn Awotwi-Pratt, research assistant
Jacklyn is a fourth-year Bachelor of Science Psychology major. Her research interests include mental health, emotions, and hand gestures.
Zerrin Akter Anni, research assistant
Zerrin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and is completing her Master of Arts in IGS—Power, Conflict, and Ideas at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan. She works as a graduate teaching assistant at the Department of History and Sociology at UBCO. With a strong foundation in qualitative research, Zerrin studies gender-based violence (GBV), intimate partner violence (IPV), media and crime, discrimination in health sectors, supporting victims of violence, and peace and conflict resolutions.
Moha Chaturvedi, research assistant
Moha (she/her) holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia and is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She is a graduate research assistant with the Investigating Racism in Mental Health Care project. She is interested in exploring the impact of racism on access to healthcare as a researcher.