Sarah Moreheart

doctoral student in the Faculty of Health Sciences

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

Drawing from a background predominantly focused on highly criminalized and equity-denied populations, Sarah's work focus is directly shaped by her dedication to community-focused and peer-driven initiatives.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

SFU has long collaborated with community to drive impactful solutions that are grounded in the real needs and desires of impacted populations. This is a value that speaks deeply to me from an equity perspective.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research aims to examine patterns and determinants of engagement with peer-led and/or community-based services providing supports for women sex workers (trans inclusive) experiencing HIV/sexually transmitted blood borne infections (STBBI) and/or overdoses. She will also be evaluating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on sex worker access to HIV/STBBI and overdose services and supports. Through this work, Moreheart hopes to develop a set of 'best practices' for peer-led/community-based interventions to address ongoing overdose and sexual health inequities during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

Equity-focused, community-orientated, values-based

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My background in frontline and community work has directly influenced my research interests. I am strongly committed to putting forth meaningful and implementable programmatic recommendations to improve health inequities.

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 have received major awards such as the CIHR Canada Graduate Scholarship as well as the Mowafaghian awards related to health. These awards have provided me with the opportunity to focus on my research and writing. Ultimately being able to conduct research and find ways to put it out to the community in a timely manner.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

I have learned the importance of recognizing that initiatives, especially for equity-denied groups, need to be brought forth from many different sectors. Learning to engage with different stakeholders, identifying what their priorities are, and what information they need to make responsive equity-focused changes is a skill that needs cultivating.