Sukaina Dada

Dr. Sukaina Dada (Sakina) has dedicated over 16 years to advancing the health and well-being of children, with a particular emphasis on addressing the health disparities faced by racialized and newcomer children with disabilities. A passionate advocate for the protection of children's rights worldwide, she has consistently worked to ensure that vulnerable children receive the care and support they are entitled to. Dr. Dada is a paediatric occupational therapist with extensive experience working with children and youth with disabilities in diverse community and healthcare settings. As the founder and CEO of SMILE Canada - Support Services, a Canadian charity, Dr. Dada spearheads initiatives aimed at supporting newcomer children and youth with disabilities and their families. Her grassroots efforts have had a profound impact on policy, particularly in advocating for anti-racism, safer spaces, and culturally responsive support and resources. Dr. Dada holds a PhD in Critical Disability Studies from the School of Health Policy and Management at York University, where her research focused on the intersection of displacement and disability. She recently completed a visiting postdoctoral fellowship at York University, where she developed an artificial intelligence-based search engine to support global disability advocates, in collaboration with the UNCRPD Secretariat. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Dr. Dada has been honoured with several prestigious awards, including being named a finalist for the RBC Women of the Year Award. She has also received the McMaster Arch Alumni Award and the McMaster University Distinguished Alumni Award in Rehabilitation Science.

• Chief Executive Officer, SMILE Canada - Support Services

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