Learning from Eco-social Approaches to Public Health
Christiana O. Onabola is an interdisciplinary health researcher trained in environmental health, public policy and epidemiology. Her research interest revolves around integrating health equity considerations into the complex interplay between environmental factors and health outcomes. She brings an interdisciplinary and biomedical background, and employs qualitative and quantitative research methods to comprehensively address complex human health issues.
Her doctoral research focused on the intersections of environmental health and eco-social local issues within the context of the land-water-energy nexus at a watershed scale, examined through an SDG-aligned cross-sectoral approach. Supported by the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship and the Environment Community and Health Observatory (ECHO) Network, her doctoral work advances the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a platform for addressing health equity surrounding local nexus issues related to human-environment systems.
How are you committing to reconciliation/upholding Indigenous sovereignty?
As a member of the LEAPH Lab during my doctoral journey, my work has supported Indigenous reconciliation and the upholding of Indigenous sovereignty by centering Indigenous knowledge and perspectives in my research, and advocating for meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities in local land-water-energy-health nexus issues and related decision-making processes.
What is the most inspiring part of your work?
The most inspiring aspect of my work is the tangible improvement in understanding the eco-social determinants of health outcomes and supporting local actions to localizing the SDGs and promoting environmental sustainability and health equity, particularly for marginalized and under-served communities.
The best piece of advice you've ever been given is...
The best piece of advice I have ever been given is to approach every challenge with empathy, curiosity, and resilience, recognizing that each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth and learning.
What is something you are passionate about?
Outside of academic endeavors, I passionate about social justice, grassroots engagement and empowerment. I believe that collaborative and inclusive efforts can create positive change and build a more equitable and sustainable world for future generations.
Favourite pizza toppings:
My favorite pizza toppings are pepperoni, green pepper and spinach.
Secret superpower:
My secret superpowers are praying and Christian meditation.
