Why did you get involved in your specific area of research or academic program, and what interests you about it? 

My decision to pursue an education in social work was a natural continuation of my community involvement and my desire to serve others. As a student at the School of Social Work, I was able to connect with Dr. Randall Jackson and the Feast Centre for Indigenous STBBI (sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections) Research, where I received invaluable mentorship, learning and training. This rich experience inspired my doctoral research in collaboration with Six Nations of the Grand River to explore Haudenosaunee approaches to sexual health and wellbeing, a topic I am passionate about. 

What excites you most about your research or what has been the most exciting moment in your academic career so far?

I’m excited to collaborate with the Six Nations of the Grand River community! I look forward to researching and working with community members to learn more about how Haudenosaunee cultural practices enhance sexual health/well-being, and STBBI prevention. This study aims to benefit the community by developing resources that feature strengths-based cultural practices to support sexual health and well-being. Haudenosaunee Elders will play a significant leadership role in this study as they have traditionally shared ancestral teachings, cultural practices, and rites of passage with the community. This participatory study will engage all community collaborators throughout the research process. This will not only enrich our study but will serve to build genuine relationships for potential future research initiatives.  

Why do you think patient-oriented research is important in the research you are involved in?

This approach is important because my research is premised on the meaningful collaboration of Haudenosaunee community members. These community members bring knowledge, experience, and cultural protocols to this study that are essential to its success. This research is focused on the need to foreground the voices of community members in our quest to illuminate cultural responses to sexual health and wellbeing. 

How do you think your research can improve patient-oriented research in aging and health?

We aspire for this research to make a positive impact on the adoption of Indigenous cultural practices for sexual health and well-being as well as the prevention of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) across distinct First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. Engaging community members of all ages is essential to ensure that this culturally focused approach effectively meets the needs of the community. Indigenous Elders have historically played a vital role in sharing cultural knowledge about sexuality with young people, so it is imperative they play a leadership role in this research. 

What would you tell someone who is thinking about getting involved in patient-oriented research in aging and health?  

I would tell them the time and effort are well worth the joys and challenges of the research process. This approach leads to richer research results because it prioritizes first-hand knowledge and lived experience, which are essential to understanding topics related to health and aging. This research also encourages relationship-building and reciprocity, drawing on a range of expertise. 

Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work in your specific area of research?

I have several mentors who have inspired my path in this research. My connection to the Feast Centre for Indigenous STBBI Research as a research assistant, under the leadership of my supervisor, Dr. Randall Jackson, allowed me to be a helper and a student of the Council of Elders. This transformative opportunity inspired my MSW research, Exploring the Meaningful Partnership of Elders in Indigenous STBBI Research, where I collaborated closely with fifteen Elders. One of the key findings of this study was the need for strengths-based cultural approaches to sexual health/wellbeing and STBBI prevention. Who better to listen to than the Elders? Moreover, I am thrilled about this opportunity to collaborate with Six Nations of the Grand River. 

What qualities do you consider important for success in your specific area of research?

Adaptability and flexibility are essential qualities in this area of research. These qualities give the researcher the capacity to follow the ebb and flow of the research process and respond to any setbacks with patience and grace. In addition, integrity, humility, and the capacity for deep listening are essential qualities to succeed in this area of research to build genuine relationships and encourage the meaningful engagement of community members throughout the study.