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_”Qualitative research doesn’t just capture data; it tells stories, reveals challenges, and, most importantly, sparks change. As a research assistant on the Mental Health Standards for Black Youth project, I wasn’t simply observing data—I was deeply engaged with narratives that illuminated the disparities faced by Black and racialized communities in healthcare. This experience has solidified my career aspirations to advocate for equitable health access and lead with purpose in the medical field.
Working with the NVIVO software brought a new level of depth to our analysis. I coded transcripts from focus groups, unveiling themes that painted a comprehensive picture of the mental health challenges experienced by Black youth. Literature reviews helped link youth-driven solutions to existing studies, creating a dynamic fusion of real-world insights and grounded evidence. Far from being a routine exercise, this process urged me to think critically about healthcare systems and to imagine pathways toward meaningful change.
Dr. Salami and Dr. Aloysius were instrumental in fostering an enriching learning environment. They balanced rigor with encouragement, hosting workshops that covered everything from statistical communication to writing for publication. The qualitative analysis session was my favourite, where I learned about thematic analysis, discourse analysis, and other research techniques that I’ll carry with me in my future career.
Through this program, I have developed skills in collaboration, time management, and scientific communication. I’m especially grateful for the chance to convey my research to team members in accessible language, a skill that will be essential in engaging diverse audiences in the future. Knowing that our research contributes to actionable standards for mental health services fuels my passion to make a difference in healthcare. I hope more students can experience this journey, as I have, and come away with the conviction that they, too, can drive change in the lives of Canadians.”_