Where are they now?

Payden was involved with CFYS as an undergraduate and graduate student. He was drawn to the CFYS as it linked multiple academic departments and research topics to the local and global well-being of youth. Payden learned to appreciate the different lenses and approaches utilized to investigate similar areas of research, and enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with other passionate researchers, clinicians, and staff. He says his time at the CFYS was invaluable, as it helped lay an excellent foundation for his endeavours as a clinician and researcher. Payden is a Registered Psychologist in Alberta and has begun his PhD at the University of Calgary, where he aims to continue his research and clinical practice with marginalized youth and young adults.

As a Centre Assistant and then Research and Communications Coordinator at CFYS, Stephanie had the opportunity to engage in multiple research endeavours as well as knowledge mobilization activities, which fueled her passion for both acquiring and disseminating knowledge. Since leaving CFYS, Stephanie has completed her Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy and now works in both the private and public sector as an Occupational Therapist and Case Manager. Stephanie has had the opportunity to participate in research on university student well-being, community gardening for mental health, and developing social awareness in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Stephanie was also granted a Fellowship Award for her research potential, all of which were influenced by the experience and training she acquired at CFYS. Stephanie continues to look for opportunities where research and academia intersect with health care to provide best practice.