Get involved … make your time at York count.
— Patricia Dada
Patricia Dada
Women's health advocate
BA ’18, Department of Sociology
LA&PS alumna, Patricia Dada was named one of York University’s 2025 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, recognized among a distinguished group of young leaders making a meaningful impact around the world. In recognition of her achievement, we connected with Patricia to better understand how her experience as a Sociology graduate contributed to where she is today.
How did your degree in Sociology help get you where you are today?
Two courses that deeply shaped my path were Gift & Sacrifice with Professor Lorna Weir and Social Movements: Theory & Practice with Professor Lesley Wood. They provided the bedrock for my interests in community building and social advocacy. Sociology helped me see how systems impact everyday lives, especially for marginalized communities, and that perspective continues to influence my work today in reproductive health and equity.
What career did you dream of pursuing in undergrad, and where did your professional path take you after graduation?
I started at York as a public administration student because I knew I wanted to serve and help others, but I didn’t have a clear roadmap then. After graduation, I worked for Pearson Education in their Online Learning Services division, supporting seasoned professionals pursuing MBAs at Northeastern University. It was fulfilling, until it wasn’t. I knew I needed to pivot, so I went back to school for my Master’s, and eventually found myself in reproductive health, helping people grow their families using assisted reproductive technologies. Now we're building the Black Fertility Agency, it’s been a whirlwind, but meaningful journey.
What skills or knowledge from the Sociology program have been most beneficial in your career?
The Sociology program and Sociology Undergraduate Student Association (SUSA) helped tremendously with my public speaking skills. I wasn’t necessarily shy during undergrad, but I wasn’t a confident speaker. By my fifth year, in 4000-level seminars, I’d found my voice. I also joined SUSA as vice-president. Presentations that once felt intimidating became second nature. That skill has carried through into my advocacy work, speaking engagements and leadership today.
In what ways have the network and connections you made during your studies helped you in your career?
My early university connections grew in unexpected and powerful ways. Quick story time— I met and became friends with a fellow first-year student on day one of McLaughlin College's Frosh week in 2013. Today, he’s an employment lawyer and occasionally lends a hand with legal paperwork for the Black Fertility Agency. This is a testament to the power of intentional connections and valuable friendships. I always advise people to build those early on, so they become a part of your growing network.
What advice do you have for first-year Sociology students?
Get involved, whether it’s joining a club, supporting your college, working on campus, or running for elections. I did all the above, and I highly recommend you make your time at York count. Time flies, and before you know it, you're in your fourth year trying to figure out "what's next." Also, be sure to step outside your comfort zone occasionally; you never know what awaits you on the other side. Good luck!