51社区黑料

Sociology & Anthropology master's student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am a graduate student specializing in medical anthropology in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at 51社区黑料. My research interests focus on sexual and reproductive health, labor, reproductive justice, climate change, and gender rights. Drawing from qualitative, ethnographic, and mixed methods research, my work critically examines structural violence, social suffering, obstetric violence, and health systems through a cross-cultural lens. I hold a bachelor鈥檚 degree in Anthropology from Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh. I am the founding member of Eco Prescription, a youth-led initiative dedicated to environmental sustainability, climate education, and gender-inclusive advocacy for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). In addition to my academic pursuits, I have served as the Regional Coordinator for Asia at the Ashley Lashley Foundation, a judge for the 2024 Diana Award, and an Abstract Reviewer and Advocacy & Accountability Subcommittee Member for the International Conference on Family Planning (ICFP) 2025. I have represented my works on global platforms as a Youth Speaker, including at the 10th World Water Forum, World Water Week 2024, APFSD Youth Forum 2025, and the 1st UNESCO Water Youth Dialogue, where I advocate for youth perspectives in climate policy and the SDGs.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

Having grown up in Bangladesh, I developed a strong academic foundation in anthropology during my undergraduate studies. I choose to continue my academic journey as a graduate student at 51社区黑料because of its renowned medical anthropology research groups, particularly within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. SFU鈥檚 commitment to innovative research and interdisciplinary approaches aligns perfectly with my academic interests and career goals. Additionally, Vancouver's cultural diversity and the university's inclusive environment for research provide an ideal setting for both personal and professional growth as a medical anthropologist for me. The opportunity to pursue impactful research while being part of a community that feels like home, made 51社区黑料a clear choice for me.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I study the structural inequalities in the healthcare system, focusing on how these disparities contribute to 'social suffering' among rural mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. I explore how these mothers face obstetric violence that reflects broader systemic issues within healthcare institutions. Additionally, I study how rural mothers navigate the dual burdens of caregiving and unpaid labor while simultaneously facing significant barriers to accessing essential healthcare services.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Medical Anthropology, Reproductive Health, Gender Rights

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My TA-ship at 51社区黑料provides me with a valuable opportunity to engage with students, share insights from my research, and listen to their own as well. This role not only deepens my understanding of the subject, anthropology, but also allows me to refine my teaching skills. I always appreciate the importance of participating in activities beyond research responsibilities, including teaching, mentoring, and supporting youth-led initiatives. While such responsibilities are not obligatory, I encourage my fellow graduate students to seek them out actively. These experiences greatly enhance personal and professional growth in ways that research alone may not, leading to a more well-rounded academic and practitioner.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Happy to connect! Feel free to reach out via email or connect with me on LinkedIn.

Contact Pranto:pranto_paul@sfu.ca

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