Statement of Intent
I am applying for the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Executive position because my journey as both an advocate and researcher has fueled my commitment to empowering marginalized communities within psychology. As the first-born child in an immigrant family from India, I navigated the tension between my family’s values and the expectations of Western society. This experience deepened my passion for advocacy as I learned how systems profoundly influence individuals’ lives, from their self-concepts to their access to opportunities and spaces. My work with children, particularly neurodivergent populations, reignited this passion as I recognized the systemic barriers they faced in accessing services. Through my academic and personal experiences, I’ve learned that psychological practices and research must be culturally responsive. My research on disordered eating within a community sample reinforced my belief that empirical work must reflect the realities of the communities it serves. I approach all aspects of becoming a psychologist with one main goal in mind: honouring lived experiences and amplifying marginalized voices. I am drawn to the JEDI Executive position because I believe in the power of inclusive, community-driven programming that respects and addresses the diverse needs of individuals. As a JEDI Executive, I will use my experience in research coordination, publication, and volunteer facilitation to develop impactful resources that promote inclusivity and equity. I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes the voices of marginalized communities, ensuring that individuals not only have access but feel supported in their journey. It would be a privilege to contribute to making psychology a more equitable, supportive, and accessible space where all individuals are seen, heard, and valued.
Biography
I am pursuing a Master’s in School and Applied Child Psychology at the University of British Columbia (UBC), driven by a passion for understanding and supporting marginalized populations. My research, funded by the Canadian Graduate Scholarship, focuses on the experiences of autistic adolescents transitioning into early adulthood. The goal of my work is to amplify their voices and address the unique challenges they face. This aligns with my belief that psychology should be a tool for inclusivity and social justice, reflecting the lived experiences of the individuals it serves. My academic journey has been shaped by a commitment to advancing mental health care for diverse groups. I have provided behavioural support to neurodivergent children and assisted individuals in recovery from eating disorders. These experiences have offered me a multifaceted understanding of the complex needs of diverse populations, informing my academic goal of developing interventions and resources that foster equity. Outside of academia, I am deeply dedicated to social advocacy. For me, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion are not mere concepts but calls to action, recognizing that these values require ongoing work. I consistently reflect on my positionality and strive to empower those around me. I hope to build a career centred on advocacy, advancing the causes I believe in. By applying for the JEDI Executive role, I seek to gain leadership skills that will allow me to continue my advocacy work and practice self-reflection. I do not apply for this role thinking I have all the answers but with a sense of humility and curiosity. I view this as an opportunity to immerse myself in a community of like-minded individuals committed to continuous learning. I am excited to contribute to positive change through research and practice that promotes accessibility, inclusivity, and justice in mental health and education systems.