Parujee Akarasewi • Nov 20, 2024
Kaitlin Kharas’s Mother, Dr.Lee Augimeri, Kaitlin Kharas and Parujee (Mickey) Akarasewi from CHUO 89.1 FM.
The prestigious Research Canada’s Leadership in Advocacy Awards took place at the Metropolitan Brasserie Restaurant, Nov. 19, 2024. CHUO had the honour of attending the event, which was a remarkable celebration of individuals and organizations whose advocacy efforts have made a significant impact on the health research community in Canada.
The evening highlighted the transformative work of three distinguished awardees who have each demonstrated outstanding leadership in advocating for health research and innovation.
2024 Leadership in Advocacy Awardee: Dr. Leena Augimeri
(From left to right) Alison Evans, President and CEO of Research Canada, Dr. Leena Augimeri, Stephanie Michaud PHD.
The highest honour of the night, the Leadership in Advocacy Award, was presented to Dr. Leena Augimeri, a renowned specialist and innovator in child and youth mental wellness and crime prevention.
With nearly four decades of experience, Dr. Augimeri’s work has been transformative in the fields of mental health and crime prevention for children and youth. As the Chair of the Ontario Youth Justice Task Force, Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto, and Co-Founder of SNAP and EARL Programs, Dr. Augimeri has been at the forefront of developing programs that provide early intervention and support for at-risk youth. Her advocacy efforts have not only contributed to research and development but have also created practical solutions for improving mental health and reducing youth involvement in crime.
Dr. Augimeri’s leadership in mental health advocacy has left an indelible mark on the Canadian landscape, earning her this well-deserved recognition for her lifelong commitment to advancing the well-being of children and youth.
2024 Organization Leadership in Advocacy Awardee: JDRF
The 2024 Organization Leadership in Advocacy Award was presented to JDRF, the leading global organization dedicated to funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. JDRF has been a vital advocate for T1D research, ensuring that the needs of Canadians living with the condition are met at every stage of the research pipeline.
Whether advocating for funding for groundbreaking discoveries or pushing for regulatory changes that accelerate the approval of new treatments, JDRF’s efforts have been crucial in improving the lives of those living with T1D. Additionally, JDRF has worked tirelessly to secure public and private reimbursement for the medications, devices, and treatments that Canadians with T1D rely on daily.
Their advocacy work exemplifies how organizations can make an impactful difference in health research and policy, securing a brighter future for individuals with chronic conditions.
2024 Emerging Leader in Advocacy Awardee: Kaitlin Kharas
(From left to right) Alison Evans, President and CEO of Research Canada, Kaitlin Kharas, Stephanie Michaud PHD.
In a new category this year, the ‘Emerging Leader in Advocacy Award’ was given to Kaitlin Kharas, a trailblazer in science policy advocacy.
Kaitlin has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the previous Co-President of the Toronto Science Policy Network and now as the Executive Director of Support Our Science. Her advocacy journey, driven by her passion for science and its role in shaping public policy, has gained widespread recognition both nationally and internationally.
As a PhD candidate, Kaitlin has shown tremendous promise in using her scientific expertise to drive policy change. Her advocacy work continues to inspire others, positioning her as a rising star in the world of science policy. Kaitlin’s recognition as an Emerging Leader in Advocacy highlights the importance of fostering young leaders who will continue to advance the cause of health research in Canada and beyond.
A Night to Remember
The 2024 Research Canada’s Leadership in Advocacy Awards was a momentous occasion, showcasing the power of advocacy in shaping the future of health research in Canada. Each of the awardees has made significant contributions to their respective fields, advancing policies, securing funding, and improving the lives of Canadians.
The evening was a reminder of the collective effort required to support health research and innovation, and the profound impact that advocacy can have in transforming lives and shaping policies for the betterment of all.
Congratulations to Dr. Leena Augimeri, JDR, and Kaitlin Kharas for their outstanding achievements. Their work will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of advocates who are passionate about making a difference in the health research community.
As we look to the future, the 2024 Leadership in Advocacy Awards set the stage for continued growth and collaboration within the health research sector, ensuring that Canada remains a leader in scientific innovation and public health advocacy.