Building Better Beginnings
We are a group of researchers and community partners seeking to build partnerships, bridges, and dialogues to strengthen health trajectories across the lifecourse. Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Sujane Kandasamy, our work aims to amplify collaboration with underserved communities, reshape approaches to knowledge mobilization, and foster solutions that are also best for our planet. Through research and community-centered approaches, our team is set to redefine the way we approach health, equity, and sustainability on a global scale.
About Our Research Projects
SCORE! Family Health Van
The SCORE! Family Health Van is a project that seeks to “meet newcomer families where they are” by coordinating type 2 diabetes screening, prevention, and knowledge exchange in natural community entry points. We are collaborating with community partners in Hamilton, Ontario neighbourhoods to build on the opportunities to mobilize community spaces for strengths-based lifestyle modification. This project has been reviewed by the Hamilton Integrated Research Ethics Board, Project ID: 17729.
SMART START
SMART START is a project developing, evaluating, and iterating co-created gestational diabetes toolkits for South Asian pregnant persons and their primary care providers. Read the paper describing the development and evaluation here. From the results of this evaluation, we developed a revised version of the original SMART START Toolkit, which can be accessed here.
Toolkits
Type 2 Diabetes
Learn more about risks, symptoms, how blood sugar works and the importance of routine testing.
Healthy Eating
Get tips for sustainable eating, balanced meals and healthy home-cooked recipes.
Physical Activity
Find practical and realistic ways to move more throughout
the week.
Programs & Support
Guidance on community programs, how to talk to healthcare providers and steps for finding a family doctor.
Additional Support
Access Our Toolkits in 6 Different Languages
Check Your Risk Today
Healthy Habits Magnets
Quick, colourful reminders you can put on your fridge to build healthy habits every day!
Diet
Simple swaps and healthy plate tips for everyday meals!
Physical Activity
Simple daily movement ideas to help you stay active!
Understanding Type 2 Diabetes
A quick guide to common symptoms and when to seek help.
Connect
Join Our Community
Become a part of our mission to create healthier futures. Join our mailing list for updates and resources. Together, we can make a difference!