Manisha Blaskevitch

Manisha is a research assistant focusing on Indigenous youth and mental health initiatives. Her commitment to culturally relevant, intersectional, and community-driven research grew from her volunteer work at harm reduction centres in Kingston, Ontario. She holds an MSc in Epidemiology, where she examined how immigrant youths’ intersectional identities shape depressive symptom risk. She then pursued research supporting individuals with mental health and substance use disorders transitioning out of homelessness. This position shaped her values and allowed her to collaborate closely with participants and community stakeholders—an experience that provided invaluable insight into systemic barriers to care and reinforced her belief in community as central to wellbeing. Outside of work, Manisha enjoys staying active, exploring nature, attending live music events, and visiting art galleries.