RSI Trainees Learn, Lead, and Connect at This Year’s BRI Symposium
By
Jessica A Boafo
The Rehabilitation Sciences Institute (RSI) was proud to be out in full force at the 20th Annual Bloorview Research Institute (BRI) Symposium, held November 25–26 at the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Conference Centre. As one of Canada’s largest hospital-based pediatric disability health research conferences, this year’s symposium explored the theme “From Ideas to Action: Advancing Transformational Care and Support in Childhood-Onset Disability.”
Across two days, researchers, clinicians, industry partners, trainees, and families gathered to share new knowledge, exchange ideas, and strengthen collaboration in childhood disability research. The program featured keynote presentations, oral and poster competitions for trainees, The Pursuit Award presentations, innovative exhibits, breakout sessions, research talks, networking opportunities, and awards honouring excellence and impact.
RSI’s presence was strongly felt throughout the event. Interim Director Dr. Yana Yunusova and faculty member Dr. Milos Popovic both delivered spotlight presentation introductions, setting the tone for the impactful research showcased by the community.
RSI-affiliated faculty also contributed to major discussions, including:
Employment as a Social Determinant of Health for Young People with Disabilities | Presented by: Dr. Sally Lindsay, Senior Scientist, Bloorview Research Institute
Advancing Family Engagement in Research at Holland Bloorview: Consultation, Recommendations, and Actions | Presented by: Dr. Tim Ross, Scientist, Bloorview Research Institute; Co-Chair, Research Family Engagement Committee
Several RSI students attended the symposium and reflected on the value of connecting with leading researchers, engaging with families, and learning from cutting-edge pediatric disability research:
“My favourite part was connecting with fellow research trainees from RSI and IMBE. I always learn so much from these cross-disciplinary conversations and seeing the breadth of work in pediatric disability and rehabilitation.”
— Josh Shore
“As a first-year master’s student, this was my first time attending the BRI symposium. From incredible keynote speakers and peer presentations to the inspiring Pursuit Awards, it was two enriching days of learning and growing. I also had the chance to present my first poster and connect with researchers, conversations that will certainly shape my scoping review and master’s thesis.”
— Emillee York
As the symposium concluded, RSI participants left energized by the spirit of innovation and collaboration driving the future of childhood-onset disability research. Events like the BRI Symposium highlight RSI’s ongoing commitment to advancing rehabilitation science through interdisciplinary partnerships, trainee development, and research with real-world impact.
