About the prize
The UBC Undergraduate Prize in Library Research is a way to showcase students’ effective and innovative use of library services, information experts and resources provided by the UBC Library. Applications for these prizes also provide students with an opportunity to reflect on their information-seeking experience, showcase their research beyond the classroom, and promote scholarship excellence at the undergraduate level at the University of British Columbia.
The Prize was established by UBC Library to encourage more and deeper use of its resources and collections, to advance information literacy at UBC, and to promote academic excellence at UBC.
Q: Could you tell us a little bit about your project?
My primary objective was to address a significant gap in existing research, particularly regarding variations in suicide rates across demographic groups, including gender, age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Inspired by Leigh Joseph, whom I learned about in Dr. Tara Lee’s WRDS 150 class, and her rejection of colonial research in favour of Indigenous epistemology, I gained the confidence to ground my study firmly within my community.
What resonated most deeply with me during my research was the profound resilience found in Muslim communities. Despite considerable stigma and substantial barriers to mental health resources, individuals consistently displayed extraordinary strength, a remarkable capacity to recover from adversity through perseverance and faith, and they always came together to support someone in need. I employed technical methodologies, such as grounded theory and thematic analysis, to ensure a rigorous and meaningful contribution to the field. Ultimately, my goal was to foster a deeper understanding and to inspire impactful conversations about mental health within the greater Muslim community.
Q: What does winning this prize mean to you?
Winning this prize means a great deal; it genuinely feels surreal. Personally, it symbolizes joining a broader movement at UBC that champions impactful research, reminding me that there are people who care about addressing critical issues in our society. The incredible work being done on campus is inspiring, and I feel truly honoured and a bit giddy to be recognized alongside my fellow awardees.
Research can often feel like a lengthy and solitary journey, but recognition like this validates the importance of the work and rekindles my passion for the process. There’s a quote I particularly resonated with this past year: “Love is for those who love the process.” This award not only encourages but also serves as a platform to further pursue meaningful change through my work.
Q: What are your plans for the future?
I’m excited to share that I’m currently a research mentee at Stanford’s Muslim Mental Health & Islamic Psychology Lab, on the Substance Use & Abuse team. One project I’m contributing to focuses on examining digital health tools and technology-driven solutions for mental health. Driven by intentionality and curiosity, my future plans involve continuing my commitment to impactful research, developing innovative solutions in collaboration with communities, and working towards equitable health solutions that benefit everyone.
Coming from a background where pursuing research, especially as a young Black scholar, is uncommon, my summer experience at the MIT Media Lab working on the data activism project profoundly inspired me to embrace this path with determination. Initially, I questioned the balance between theoretical research and real-world application, but ultimately, my goal is to make tangible improvements in the lives of those around me.
Q: Do you have a favourite research spot at UBC Library?
As much as I’d love to gatekeep this gem—in the spirit of this award—I’ll share it. The Education Library at Neville Scarfe might be the most underrated library on campus; it’s unmatched, and I spent a few early mornings there this past semester. The Ridington Room is a close second.