In celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the Krembil Research Institute hosted a free livestream event on February 10, 2023.
Over 4000 people watched the event live, which can be viewed here.
Moderated by CBC host Mary Ito, the livestream featured the following three Krembil researchers and health care providers:
● Dr. Karen Davis, Senior Scientist, Krembil Brain Institute;
● Amina Adama, PhD Candidate, Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute; and
● Laura Passalent, Advanced Practice Physiotherapist and Clinician Investigator, Schroeder Arthritis Institute
Each speaker gave a short, TED-style talk about their life and career path, and what inspired them to enter their field. Topics included the use of brain imaging techniques to study chronic pain; potential treatments for glaucoma and other retinal diseases; and holistic physiotherapy for patients living with arthritis.
The livestream also featured a guest appearance from the Honourable Marci Ien, Canada’s Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, who shared an inspiring message about the power of education.
Addressing young people around the world, Marci said, “Follow your passion, unapologetically. Seek and give mentorship wherever you can because, with that, comes many invaluable lessons and resources. The power that comes from working hard and working together is limitless.”
The event concluded with a panel discussion in which the speakers answered questions submitted by classrooms in and outside of Ontario—one that came from as far away as Zimbabwe.
Want more inspiring stories about women researchers at UHN? Watch this short video.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), women account for only 33% of researchers worldwide, despite representing nearly half of undergraduate and graduate students. To address gender inequities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, the United Nations declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.