Institution: University of Montreal

Supervisor: Dr. Sylvie Belleville

Personal Bio: Salut ! Je suis un étudiant en neuroscience cognitive à l’Université de Montréal, originaire de la Rive-Sud. Passionné par la psychologie et les neurosciences, je souhaite poursuivre une carrière en neuropsychologie ou en médecine. Je travaille présentement dans le laboratoire de Dre Sylvie Belleville, où nous étudions les impacts d’interventions physiques et cognitives sur la cognition et la santé cérébrale à un âge avancé. Dans ce contexte, je m’intéresse particulièrement aux mécanismes de la réserve cognitive et aux strategies pouvant favoriser le maintien des fonctions cognitives au cours du vieillissement.

Institution: Toronto Metropolitan University

Supervisor: Dr. Natasha Rajah

Personal Bio: Mitra Yousefi is a fourth-year Bachelor of Science student at Toronto Metropolitan University majoring in Biology. She is passionate about women’s health and understanding factors that influence cognitive aging across the lifespan. As a BHCare Undergraduate Summer Trainee, Mitra is contributing to a scoping review examining how variation in the timing of menopause may relate to cognitive function. Outside of research, she enjoys mentoring youth and supporting underserved communities through community engagement. She has volunteered in clinical settings supporting physicians and patients. Mitra hopes to pursue a career in medicine and is particularly interested in advancing brain health research, especially in the area of women’s health.

Institution: University of Calgary

Supervisor: Dr. Zahinoor Ismail

Personal Bio: Gurshaan is completing his second year of HBSc Neuroscience at University of Calgary. This summer, he will continue his undergraduate research with Dr. Ismail at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute to explore the effect of lifelong, cognitively stimulating experiences and brain structure on later-life behaviour. His passion for dementia research stems from his volunteer position at the hospital, where he regularly engages with senior patients at risk of delirium. Gurshaan aspires to become a clinician-scientist dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults with neurodegenerative disease. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities like biking and playing basketball.

Institution: University of Calgary

Supervisor: Dr. Zahinoor Ismail

Personal Bio: I am currently in my second year pursuing an Honours degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary. As an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Zahinoor Ismail’s lab at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, I examine the relationship between sleep disturbances and dementia risk in postmenopausal women. Outside of my academics, I volunteer with Alberta Health Services and the Calgary Public Library, where I have the opportunity to give back to the community. In my free time, I enjoy playing badminton and have competed in both city and provincial tournaments.

Institution: University of Toronto

Supervisor: Dr. Amer Burhan

Personal Bio: Asmi Khanna is a third-year undergraduate student at the University of Toronto, pursuing a Neuroscience specialist, Cell & Molecular Biology major, and Immunology minor. Driven by her passion for neuropsychiatry, she is conducting a scoping review under the mentorship of Dr. Amer Burhan to explore the synergistic effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in treating depression and preventing dementia. Beyond academics, Asmi is the Co-President of the Teddy Bear Clinic, an initiative that merges her research interests with mental health advocacy by helping children overcome fears and anxieties related to medical visits. This work reflects her belief that early emotional support and hands-on learning opportunities can positively shape lifelong well-being, reflecting her dedication to bridging scientific research with compassionate care.

Institution: University of Toronto

Supervisor: Dr. Jenalyn Ormita, Dr. Gillian Einstein

Personal Bio: Comfort Oluwagbamila is a Neuroscience undergraduate at the University of Toronto with a strong interest in brain health, aging, and health disparities in underrepresented populations. She is currently involved in research examining how minority stress, immigration, and chronic pain impact neurocognitive aging in immigrant women from the Horn of Africa. Through qualitative and neuroimaging analysis, she aims to explore resilience as a protective factor against cognitive decline. Comfort hopes her research will contribute to culturally informed healthcare interventions and promote healthier aging trajectories for marginalized communities. She aspires to become a neurosurgeon dedicated to advancing equity in medicine.

Institution: University of Toronto

Supervisor: Dr. Tatyana Mollayeva

Personal Bio: Daniel Phan is a third-year undergraduate student at the University of Toronto, pursuing a double major in neuroscience and immunology. His academic interests include brain health, social determinants of health, and biological mechanisms underlying disease. He has preclinical research experience investigating regeneration and neurobehavior in pond snail models and, for the past year, conducted research concerning equity in outcomes in people with traumatic brain injury. Daniel is passionate about pursuing a career in healthcare and is deeply committed to advancing health equity. He is excited to join the BHCare Summer Program and aims to integrate scientific inquiry with equity-focused perspectives.

Institution: University of Toronto

Supervisor: Dr. Gillian Einstein

Personal Bio: Eithar is a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Toronto, majoring in Neuroscience with minors in Immunology and Physiology. Her research interests are centered around the neurobiological underpinnings of cognitive decline, particularly within diverse populations. As a BHCare undergraduate trainee, Eithar is working under the supervision of Dr. Gillian Einstein on a project assessing the impact of stress and resilience on brain structure, cognitive function, and self-perceived aging in immigrant women from the Horn of Africa. She is passionate about advancing neuroscience research which accounts for and is inclusive of the unique experiences of frequently underrepresented populations.

Institution: McMaster University

Supervisor: Dr. Jennifer Walker

Personal Bio: Emma Robertson is an Anishinaabekwe (Anishinaabe woman), catfish clan, from Red Rock Indian Band. She grew up in North Bay Ontario and will be graduating this spring from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours) Degree. Emma’s research interests include Indigenous cognitive health, with a commitment to community-engaged research that supports the strength and well-being of Indigenous communities. As a recipient of the BHCare Undergraduate Summer Trainee Award she looks forward to deepening her understanding of inclusive research and contributing to meaningful, culturally informed advancements in Indigenous health research. 

Institution: University Of Regina

Supervisor: Dr. Thomas Hadjistavropoulos

Personal Bio: Eshaal Rabiya is a Psychology student and a member of the Chancellor’s community at the University of Regina, with aspirations to study medicine. She supports Canadian Blood Services’ post-secondary initiatives, advocating for blood, plasma, and stem cell donation. As a volunteer in the Pediatric Unit at Regina General Hospital, she provides support to patients while assisting healthcare staff. Her passion for psychology led her to join the Health Psychology Lab at the University of Regina, where she contributes to refining pain assessment methods for individuals with dementia. Through her involvement, Eshaal is committed to making a meaningful impact in healthcare. 

Institution: University of Calgary

Supervisor: Dr. Eric Smith, Dr. Zahinoor Ismail

Personal Bio:Fahad is a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Calgary majoring in Biological Sciences. He is passionate about neuroscience research and is currently working in the Dementia & Cognitive Disorders Lab at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute. His research focuses on investigating behavioral symptoms in neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular diseases. Fahad serves as the President of Mental Health for South Asia (MHSA), an on-campus club and non-profit organization focused on promoting mental health awareness and support. He is also actively involved in numerous extracurricular and community initiatives, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact both on and off campus.

Institution: University of Toronto

Supervisor: Dr. Tatyana Mollayeva

Personal Bio: “My name is Francesco Filice, and I am a second-year student at the University of Toronto, where I am pursuing a degree in neuroscience and physiology. I have always been fascinated by the complexities of the human body and brain, which fuels my passion for learning and discovery in this field. Beyond academics, I love spending time with my friends. I also consistently keep active, I love going to the gym and playing hockey. Music is another important part of my life—I find great joy in playing the piano, as it allows me to express creativity and unwind from my studies. My ultimate goal is to attend medical school and become a doctor. I aspire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by providing care, support, and medical expertise to those in need. Helping others is my utmost passion to pursue a fulfilling medical career”.  

Institution: University of Calgary

Supervisor: Dr. Zahinoor Ismail

Personal Bio: Gurshaan is completing his second year of HBSc Neuroscience at University of Calgary. This summer, he will continue his undergraduate research with Dr. Ismail at the Hotchkiss Brain Institute to explore the effect of lifelong, cognitively stimulating experiences and brain structure on later-life behaviour. His passion for dementia research stems from his volunteer position at the hospital, where he regularly engages with senior patients at risk of delirium. Gurshaan aspires to become a clinician-scientist dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults with neurodegenerative disease. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities like biking and playing basketball.

Institution: Université de Montréal

Supervisor: Dr. Sylvie Belleville

Personal Bio: Jessica Drapeau is a second-year undergraduate student in Cognitive Neuroscience, Neuropsychology profile, at Université de Montréal. Her passion for neurodegenerative diseases comes from personal experience, as her family has been deeply affected by these conditions. She has always been driven by a scientific curiosity and a strong desire to understand and help others. She is currently working under the supervision of Dre. Sylvie Belleville on a project exploring the barriers and facilitators to implementing Brain Health PRO, an online program created to reduce dementia risk by increasing literacy and promoting brain-healthy habits. The goal is to make it easier for the organizations implicated to adopt and use Brain Health PRO. She hopes this project will make dementia prevention strategies more accessible and effective in our society.

Institution: Concordia University

Supervisor: Dr. Karen Li

Personal Bio: My name is Julia Caputo, and I am an undergraduate psychology student at Concordia University with a strong interest in neuropsychology and cognitive aging. I am a volunteer at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, committed to offering a helping hand to those in need, whether it be emotional support or advancements in research. With plans to pursue graduate studies, I am dedicated to researching cognitive impairment and developing strategies to support healthy aging. My interests align closely with BHCare’s mission, particularly in enhancing the quality of life for older adults by promoting cognitive resilience and brain health. I am eager to collaborate with experts in the field and contribute impactful research that further advances our understanding of brain health and its evolution overtime.

Institution: University Of Regina

Supervisor: Dr. Thomas Hadjistavropoulos

Personal Bio: As an aspiring engineer and recipient of the Chancellor’s Scholarship, Jumana Eldamaty is a dedicated student at the University of Regina, committed to using her skills to positively impact her community. Jumana is currently training to volunteer at the University’s Health Psychology Lab, contributing to meaningful research. She also serves as Volunteer Coordinator for Canadian Blood Services, assisting at donation clinics and volunteering at campus events to support this vital cause. Outside of academics and volunteer work, Jumana has completed Level 4 of the Royal Conservatory of Music in piano and enjoys playing volleyball, balancing both athletic and artistic interests.

Institution: Ontario Tech University

Supervisor: Dr. Winnie Sun, Dr. Amer Burhan

Personal Bio: Sara Elgazzar is an Undergraduate Research Student in the Faculty of Health Sciences while pursuing her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences under the Faculty of Science at Ontario Tech University. She has a strong background in neuroscience, dementia-care, and community engagement. She is currently working with Dr.Winnie Sun and Dr.Amer Burhan on multiple research fronts and projects to advance dementia care by integrating AI technology into healthcare. She also works in a hematology lab studying the difference in human and bovine red blood cells. As a passionate advocate for equitable access to basic needs healthcare, she volunteers her time working with Oshawa’s Nurish Food Bank and is also a women’s youth soccer coach and event planner.

Institution: Université de Montréal

Supervisor: Dr. Sylvie Belleville, Dr. Samira Mellah

Personal Bio: Sarah Memchout is a psychology student at the Université de Montréal, with a growing focus on aging research. As part of her academic training, she contributed to a laboratory project on cognitive training in virtual reality, where she developed skills in data analysis and scientific writing. Her clinical experience includes volunteer work with a variety of mental health challenges in psychiatric institution and intercultural settings, including with older adult populations, where she has supported care through empathetic, culturally informed interventions. This award highlights her dedication to bridging research and practice in the service of aging individuals and mental health care.

Institution: The University of British Columbia

Supervisor: Dr. Xiaoxiao Li

Personal Bio: Yifei Chen is a third-year undergraduate student at the University of British Columbia, majoring in Combined Computer Science and Mathematics. Her current research focuses on applying deep learning models to fMRI data to identify reliable and interpretable biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease. She is particularly interested in integrating interpretable AI with practical healthcare applications to advance data-driven approaches to brain health, with a focus on improving both the interpretability and accuracy of AI techniques and outcomes. Yifei also advocates for inclusive research practices and is committed to promoting accessibility and equity in health-related technologies. Outside of academia, she enjoys practicing Chinese calligraphy and exploring nature through hiking.