Leah Anthony

Urban Studies master's student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am getting started at SFU in September 2024 as a Master of Urban Studies student. I graduated from the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre and Environmental Studies in 2020. I have a passion for social justice and creative expression which I pursued in both my undergraduate studies and extracurriculars. An example of a project I co-developed during my undergrad was *Are We All Dead?,* a devised theatre piece which explored how the environmental crisis is being handled, through satire, movement and puppetry. In my professional life, I have continued engaging with my passions for reconciliation, social justice and creative expression through my work in First Nations arts revitalization. I'm inspired to get started with my Master of Urban Studies to continue advocating for the arts in relation to community health. Specifically, I am interested in developing sustainable communities within urban spaces that genuinely uplift Indigenous voices and look at how arts can shape these spaces. Outside of work and school I enjoy outdoor adventures, curling, and trying new restaurants.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I have recently moved to unceded Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations territories, what is also known as Vancouver, and look forward to going to school at the SFU downtown campus, an urban hub. What drew me to the Master of Urban Studies Program at SFU is primarily the diverse faculty and SFU's commitments to reconciliation. Having the chance to connect with recent alumni at an SFU Urban Studies networking event, solidified for me that the program will be a great fit and lead to a range of opportunities.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

reconciliation in city planning, arts advocacy, community engagement

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I am very grateful to have received a BC Graduate Scholarship Award and an Indigenous Entrance Scholarship. This will have a major impact on my studies allowing me to focus more and take time away from work when needed. I look forward to expanding my learning and where this program will bring me.