As a researcher and PhD student, I am interested in questions that concern civic/political behaviour, media effects, social capital, and deliberative democracy within the context of rapid technological growth/ changes. As an individual and volunteer, I am driven by a curiosity and passion for how I, with others, can contribute sustainably and meaningfully to the world through collective action.

Previously, I worked as a policy and data analyst with the Canadian government and as a communications aide with the UN International Computing Center. I also served as a board director for three years with the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society’s B.C. chapter. Currently, I spearhead civic engagement initiatives in Philly as a World Economic Forum Global Shaper.

My research and professional pursuits have stemmed from my roots in activism, advocacy, and entrepreneurship as a child and young adult in my local community Surrey. Having grown up immersed in the arts, I co-created spaces for youth civic engagement over the span of eight years—from founding ajourney2success.com (est. 2012) and Art2Heart Foundation (est. 2014) to co-chairing YWCA Metro Vancouver’s Youth Advisory Council. As an award-winning artist, writer, and pianist (active 2005-2013), I connected thousands of youths until 2020 locally and globally online by providing opportunities for community involvement via arts, writing, and volunteering.