Black Innovation in Public Health Panel: Breaking Barriers, Centering Care & Innovative Solutions

This panel discussion at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health features experts like Dr. Jude Kong, Tameika Shaw, and Mercedes Sobers. They will delve into topics such as AI in health, wellness, health equity, and community empowerment. The audience will also enjoy a unique spoken word performance by Dr. Roberta Timothy, aimed at inspiring and engaging conversations around public health transformation.

Details of the Discussion

• Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025

• Time: Doors Open at 6:00 pm

• Location: William Doo Auditorium, New College, 45 Willcocks St. Toronto

Light refreshments will be available.

This gathering offers a valuable opportunity to connect with leaders dedicated to promoting health equity.

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Agenda

6:00 pm - Welcome and Refreshments

7:00 pm - Opening Remarks and Spoken Word Performance by Dr. Roberta Timothy

7:10 pm - Presentation 1 + Q & A

7:30 pm - Presentation 2 + Q & A

7:50 pm - Presentation 3 + Q & A

8:10 pm - Open Discussion

8:30 pm - Close

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Directions to William Doo Auditorium

Closest TTC Stop: The nearest subway stations are:

o St. George Station or

o Spadina Station - users can take the 510 streetcar/bus to Willcock Street for direct access or enjoy a short 6-minute walk down Spadina.

Parking: A convenient parking garage is located at 17 Glen Morris Avenue (5-minute walk away), managed by the University of Toronto. From Spadina, take the first street past Harbord, turn right onto Glen Morris, and the parking garage will be immediately on your right. Day or overnight tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Access to William Doo Auditorium: Enter through the main doors of 45 Willcocks and either go down the stairs or take the elevators located on the same floor as the main entrance. For the elevator, please exit on floor B and turn right to reach the registration desk in front of the auditorium. Signage will guide attendees.

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Bios

Tameika Shaw, RD, MHSc, Director of Population Health and Evaluation
Davenport Perth Neighborhood and Community Health Centre

Tameika Shaw has dedicated over 16 years to the not-for-profit sector. She currently directs Population Health and Evaluation at Davenport Perth Neighborhood and Community Health Centre, promoting health equity through innovative approaches. Her work focuses on the intersection of clinical, social, and environmental factors, leading community health initiatives.

Jude Kong,Professor, DLSPH,Director AIMM Lab

Dr. Kong is a Canada Research Chair specializing in Community-Oriented Artificial Intelligence. He plays a pivotal role at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, focusing on innovative AI and data science methodologies to address significant health challenges. His leadership in various initiatives aids in improving public health systems regionally and globally.

Mercedes Sobers, PhD Candidate, Epidemiology, DLSPH

Mercedes Sobers is a PhD candidate in Epidemiology, investigating mental health services among Black Canadians. As a leader in the Black Joy Art Initiative, she combines research with community involvement to enhance mental health access and outcomes, advocating for systemic change to improve health equity.