Queen's Women's Network (QWN) was delighted to host Dr. Yolanda Hedberg, Canada Research Chair, UWO, who discussed “The complicated relationship between science, politics, equity, diversity, and inclusion – an inspiration” on September 27, 2022.
Dr. Yolanda Hedberg has contributed to multiple equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts, and includes equity questions in her research and education. She studied in Germany and did her PhD in chemistry in Sweden. She became interested in equity, diversity, and inclusion as a graduate student with a baby, and as a high performing female researcher who struggled to find a faculty position. In late 2020, after six months of the pandemic in Sweden (with childcare!!), she moved with her family to the University of Western Ontario as a Canada Research Chair. In Ontario, they closed schools/pre-schools/summer camps while the province's universities forced parent faculty members to work without childcare options.
Dr. Hedberg provided an enlightening talk about the vast difference in supports available in Germany, Sweden, and Canada. The presentation was recorded and provided here for viewing.