The Human Early Learning Partnership (HELP) is excited to welcome the newest faculty member to the research centre’s team, Dr. Matt Carwana.

“I am thrilled to join HELP as a faculty member,” says Carwana. “The team brings a sincere and thoughtful commitment to equity throughout its mandate, and I look forward to the opportunities to both contribute my skills and perspective, and to continue learning as an early career researcher from the outstanding faculty members and staff.”

Dr. Carwana is a pediatrician and clinician-investigator at BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH). Clinically, he provides care on the inpatient units at BCCH and is the Medical Co-Lead for the RICHER Social Pediatrics Program. His research sits at the intersection of social justice, public health, and clinical pediatrics and seeks to improve quality of care and health outcomes for structurally marginalized children, youth and families.

Most recently, Dr. Carwana was awarded a Participatory Action Research Convene Grant of $20,000 by the Vancouver Foundation, where he will be collaborating with Raincity Housing and Support Services Society for a project entitled “Harm reduction practices to support families to stay together”.

“We are delighted to have Matt Carwana join us,” says Mariana Brussoni, Director of HELP. “Matt brings a social justice perspective to child equity that is influenced by his role as a clinician-scientist serving families facing significant adversity and challenges. His strength-based approach and the deep respect he has for local voices and community-driven solutions is a critical addition to the HELP family.”