Community-Based Research Canada (CBRC) has provided PhD Student, Sepehr Rassi from the School of Kinesiology & Health Science the honourable mention award stating, they were deeply inspired by his unwavering dedication to societal justice and the way his work embodies the values of community-based research. Sepehr's work exemplifies what it means to center community voices, responding with care and innovation to the needs and priorities of autistic children and their families. His collaborative partnerships with Autism Ontario, Variety Village, and Abilities Centre, is part of co-creating a program that demonstrate how research can bridge critical gaps in resources for historically marginalized communities. By designing inclusive, high-quality physical activity opportunities, Sepehr, along with research colleagues and community partners are not just addressing systemic barriers but actively reshaping experiences to foster joy, health, and belonging. Their commitment to equitable outcomes, from program design to long-term implementation, and dedication to uplifting marginalized communities through collaboration and innovation made Sepehr's nomination truly stand out.
CBRC will be celebrating this outstanding accomplishment, along with other Emerging Researcher and Excellence in Community-Campus Research Partnership recipients at the Awards Gala at C2UExpo2025 in Edmonton, Alberta on May 13th, 2025.
