Sarah Der, SURF 2022

“My name is Sarah Der, and I grew up in Edmonton, AB, before moving to Kelowna, BC. I recently graduated with a Kinesiology degree, studying exercise science, human physiology, and fitness and health in varying populations. I hope to pursue a career in healthcare and innovation in the future.

My project is within Small Steps for Big Change (SSBC), an evidence-based lifestyle program aimed at lowering the risk of developing type II diabetes. My work will involve examining the recruitment strategies and processes aimed at improving diversity within the program, such as imaging, wording, program deliverer training, and culturally appropriate program administration.

My project is important because by understanding how referral and recruitment strategies are received in the community, we can work to improve our reach and the diversity of underrepresented groups. This will contribute to the Rural Expansion Project of SSBC where the program will be implemented in several rural and remote communities throughout British Columbia. This is important to me because equity, diversity, and inclusion are core values of the program as well as in my personal, and academic life.”