Stella is the Network Coordinator at Community-Based Research Canada, where she brings her passion for community engagement and a strong foundation in philosophy and social justice to her work. She holds a Master of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Waterloo, where her thesis explored issues of epistemic injustice and oppression faced by low-income, first-generation students in higher education. In her research, Stella argued that low-income, first-generation students experience significant epistemic injustice due to the inequitable distribution of epistemic and hermeneutic resources between low-income, first-generation and continuing-generation students. She also developed the concept of "temporal epistemic injustice" to highlight how financial and time constraints further inhibit low-income, first-generation students' ability to fully participate in academic communities and contribute to knowledge production. This work lays the groundwork for further exploration of how institutional and socio-economic barriers continue to maintain unjust structures within academia. These academic interests inspire Stella to explore how communities can come together to address complex social issues, and she is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces that encourage collaboration and collective action.

 

Before joining Community-Based Research Canada, Stella worked as the Walk Coordinator at Ovarian Cancer Canada, where she developed her skills in project management, event coordination, and community engagement. In this role, she successfully organized large-scale fundraising events, fostering meaningful relationships with participants, donors, and volunteers to create impactful experiences. Stella's academic background, combined with her practical experience in event coordination, enables her to approach community-based work with both critical insight and organizational expertise, always striving to support initiatives that foster social justice and empower marginalized communities.

 

Outside of her professional work, Stella is creative and enjoys exploring a variety of hobbies, including travelling, reading, and sewing. She is passionate about discovering new places and cultures, and she finds inspiration in literature and hands-on creativity. These interests allow Stella to unwind while also fueling her broader passion for exploring the world and connecting with others.