Bridging Worlds: Insights from Nunavut to Personal Reflections on Identity and Culture, with Sara Ferwati

"Climate Change and Mental Health: Listening to the Canadian North" is a three-part seminar series organized by the Wellness Impact Lab at the Dahdaleh Institute, York University. This series focuses on the interplay between climate change and mental health, particularly in the context of the Canadian North, highlighting Indigenous perspectives.

The second session, titled "Bridging Worlds: Insights from Nunavut to Personal Reflections on Identity and Culture," led by Sara Ferwati, will explore the connection between land, culture, and mental health in Nunavut through epidemiological evidence and frameworks. This session will draw on these frameworks to identify parallels between the cultural experiences of Inuit Nunavut and those of Syrians, offering a unique cross-cultural perspective. Through this, the session will effectively link these diverse experiences to wider discussions about mental health, cultural identity, and the impact of environmental changes.

It is strongly encouraged for participants to register for the three sessions. A certificate of completion will be provided to those who attend all sessions of this seminar series.

Speaker Profile

Sara Ferwati is a mental health epidemiologist based in Nunavut, Canada. Her work focuses on developing health indicators and crafting integrated monitoring tools to enhance the understanding and management of mental health needs in the region. Sara's passion extends beyond her role in public health to encompass climate action. She co-founded Climatable, a Montreal-based non-profit organization, dedicated to promoting Canadian participation in climate initiatives. Currently, Sara is investigating the effects of the climate crisis on mental health through her Community Fellowship at the Wellness Impact Lab, Dahdaleh Institute, York University, and a project funded by Canada's Art Council. This project specifically examines the mental health impacts of climate change on Syrian immigrants, effectively combining Sara's professional expertise with her personal experiences as a Syrian immigrant. Sara holds Master's degrees in Public Health and Biochemistry from McGill University.

Register below and join us on Wednesday, February 7, at 1 p.m.

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