Growing up as a Chinese-Canadian, I felt like conversations surrounding mental health advocacy were practically unheard of in my community. Often discouraged from pursuing psychology as a career, my awareness of the lack of representation and safe spaces for marginalized individuals in this field only grew. Psychology was not only stigmatized in my culture – it was often inaccessible, leaving people like me on the outside looking in. Attending graduate school for psychology has always been my dream, and now that I’m here, I started wondering: What’s next? Beyond my studies and research in school and child psychology, I always felt there was a need for something more. I am deeply drawn to the opportunity to serve as CPA’s Justice, Equity, Diversity (JEDI) executive for this reason. In this role, I aim to advocate for anti-oppressive practices, take tangible action by fostering inclusive programming, and create a space where marginalized voices can be amplified and heard.
I’ve had much experience with EDI work, including research assistant roles on conference- published projects, writing manuscripts, planning events, editing podcast series, and volunteering in diverse communities. I hold strong interpersonal and leadership skills and am passionate about advocacy for minority groups, equipping me to excel in this position. I thrive in both collaborative and independent settings, and my ability to stay organized and manage my time efficiently ensures I can take on this role well. Through this position, I am eager to drive meaningful change beyond my studies – not only within the Chinese-Canadian community but across other marginalized groups. I want to help dismantle barriers, create safe and inclusive spaces, and push for lasting, systemic change. I believe I am ready to take on this responsibility and would be honored to contribute to a more socially just and equitable future in the field of psychology.
Laurie He is a first-year Master’s student in the School and Applied Child Psychology program at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. She earned her Honours Bachelor of Science in Neurophysiology with a minor in Psychology from McMaster University, where she was actively involved in various mental health clubs and initiatives.
Her current research focuses on child language brokering in newcomer families, using arts-based engagement ethnography as her primary methodology. Passionate about equity, diversity, and inclusion, she approaches psychology with a social justice orientation. She currently works as a research assistant and coordinator at UBC’s Psychological Services and Training Centre. She loves working with children of all ages and aspires to complete her PhD in the same program. Outside of her studies and work, you can find her at the gym, exploring new cafés and restaurants, or spending time with friends.
