A holistic approach to Black men’s health, using chess as an educational tool, and strategies to improve outcomes of patients with post-partum breast cancer are topics for discussion at the Feb. 14 online WE-Spark Think Tank.
The next WE-Spark Think Tank, Friday, Feb. 14, will offer an opportunity for researchers, students, health-care professionals, and community organizations to come together and find innovative solutions. Hosted on Zoom, this virtual session will run from 1 to 3 p.m. and is presented in collaboration with the Black Scholars Institute.
Attendees are encouraged to bring fresh ideas, actively participate in problem-solving discussions, and foster meaningful collaborations that drive impactful health research initiatives forward.
Featured projects include:
The Mental Health Hour Initiative: A Holistic Approach to Men’s Health
David Griffiths (BASc 2000), CEO and founder of Brothers Who Care, will explores a holistic approach to Black men’s health, addressing mental, emotional, physical, and financial well-being. The initiative, a collaboration between Brothers Who Care and the TAIBU Community Health Centre, integrates culturally relevant mental health support with fitness and financial empowerment resources. Participants from diverse sectors — including mental health, physical wellness, nutritional services, financial education, and Caribbean and African cultural organizations — are invited to contribute to shaping sustainable strategies for resilience and healing.
Exploring the Impact of Chess as an Educational and Mental Health Tool
Leddy librarian Antoinette Seymour (BA 1994), a member of the Black Scholars Institute and a chess Olympian, is conducting research into the integration of chess into school curricula in the Bahamas to enhance learning and mental well-being. Chess transcends boundaries of age, gender, and race, offering significant educational and mental health benefits. Seymour’s teaching experience spans individuals aged 5 to 88, including those on the autism spectrum, and individuals with physical or behavioral challenges — all in a supportive, stress-free environment. She is seeking to expand her research locally by connecting with individuals and organizations interested in the intersections of chess, mental health, education, and holistic well-being.
Post-Partum Breast Cancer: Bridging Biology and Early Detection Strategies to Improve Patient Outcomes
Bre-Anne Fifield, research associate and adjunct professor in the Faculty of Science, will present on the unique challenges posed by post-partum breast cancer, including delayed diagnosis and aggressive disease progression. This session seeks input from individuals with lived experience and health-care providers to develop strategies for early detection, improving outcomes for young mothers facing this disease.
WE-Spark Think Tanks are designed to inspire collaboration and advance health research. This event is ideal for researchers, students, health-care professionals, and community organizations committed to making a meaningful impact.