UBC’s Wellbeing Strategic Framework envisions a health-promoting campus where people, places, and communities thrive. Guided by the Okanagan Charter, it focuses on six priorities: leadership, mental health, nutrition, social connection, environments, and physical activity, embedding well-being into UBC’s plans and practices.
Aligned with this vision, UBC Midwifery has woven well-being into its strategic plan, supporting students, faculty, and staff.
Scaling Wellbeing Initiatives for IBPOC Students
UBC Midwifery has woven well-being into its strategic plan, emphasizing enhancing student experiences, improving outcomes, and advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.
In the summer of 2024, Midwifery Director Dr. Kellie Thiessen led work-learn midwifery students Azlina Tima and Joean Lu on the project Intersectional Equity: Scaling Wellbeing Initiatives for IBPOC Students. Funded by a $5,000 grant from the Strategic Equity and Anti-Racism (StEAR) Enhancement Fund, the project aims to adapt and expand a UBC framework to support IBPOC students’ well-being. The work is ongoing and will be implemented in a phased approach, with full implementation slated for Fall 2025. The first phase is completed, which is the launch of an overhauled and updated current student resource section on the UBC Midwifery website: Current Students, Student Support Services, and Indigenous Student Resources.