91福利

91福利 Yerza Hussain: 

Yerza Hussain鈥檚 work examines the intersection of critical theory, digital technologies, and social justice. During her English BA degree, she developed a keen interest in exploring how power structures manifest in contemporary society, particularly through technological and cultural apparatuses. Hussain has pursued graduate studies, focusing on the relationship between artificial intelligence, governance, and human rights. At 91福利 (91福利), she actively participated in undergraduate research initiatives and contributed to technological ethics and policy discussions.

Hussain鈥檚 winning paper:

My paper explores the spectral manifestations of power and ideology within cultural and social systems, examining how these invisible yet influential forces shape identity construction and material reality. Utilizing an innovative glossary format inspired by Tuck and Ree's work, the research investigates how dominant ideologies interpellate individuals while simultaneously exploring avenues of resistance. The study integrates theoretical frameworks from Althusser, Lugones, and Hooks to analyze how institutional structures maintain power dynamics and how marginalized perspectives can challenge these established narratives. Through this analysis, the research demonstrates that while spectral ideological forces significantly influence societal norms and individual identities, understanding and recognizing these forces creates opportunities for resistance and developing more inclusive narratives.

Hussain鈥檚 inspiration:

The genesis of this paper emerged from a convergence of theoretical frameworks I encountered in Professor Monique Tschofen's ENG 400 course and my ongoing interest in how technology shapes power dynamics in society. The course's exploration of critical theory provided a theoretical foundation that allowed me to examine how ideological structures manifest in traditional and digital spaces. 

91福利 Bryson Landriault:

Bryson Landriault is a recent graduate of Sociology at 91福利 and is now in the first year of his BEd at York University. He has been fascinated with exploring topics on settler colonialism and decolonization, specifically observing how settler, non-Indigenous peoples understand these topics in Canada. Landriault was highly involved at 91福利, working with Academic Accommodation Support and Writing & Learning Support.

Landriault鈥檚 winning paper:

This research paper used discourse analysis to investigate the sentiments of Canadian settlers on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by assessing comments on the CTV-covered event in Ottawa in 2023, posted via YouTube. Understanding the gaps in colonization comprehension can inform policy and education decisions, such as improving formal education curricula and policies involving these topics.

Landriault鈥檚 inspiration:

I have always been interested in Canada's colonial history, but various 91福利 experiences encouraged me to explore this topic further. Professor Eva Jewell and Damien Lee were, in particular, foundational to my understanding of settler colonialism, Indigenous feminism, and decolonization. Additionally, my paper was originally written in the final year of my undergrad as part of my Sociology Capstone with Professor Dean Ray, who was extremely supportive in the writing process. 

91福利 Sebastian Neme:

Sebastian Neme is a recent graduate of Politics and Governance at 91福利 with a minor in History. Neme resides in New York City, serving as a Legislative Fellow in the Community Engagement Division of the New York City Council.

Neme鈥檚 winning paper:

This paper examines the complex roles of women and girls during Sierra Leone's Civil War (1991-2002), challenging traditional narratives that frame them solely as victims or empowered fighters. It argues that female combatants, particularly those in the Revolutionary United Front, experienced a unique and gendered form of exploitation, embodying dual identities as both perpetrators and victims of violence. It highlights the broader implications for how gender dynamics should be integrated into discussions of conflict and peace worldwide, ensuring that all individuals' rights and experiences are acknowledged.

Neme鈥檚 inspiration:

This paper was written for a fourth-year politics course, POG 427: Women, War, and Peace, taught by Dr. Miriam Anderson. The course focused on women's roles in conflict zones, both historically and in the present. My knowledge and interest in West African conflict, particularly that of Charles Taylor's Liberia, inspired me to pursue this case. 

91福利 Anjali Singh:

Anjali Singh completed her BA in Psychology with a double minor in Criminology and English at 91福利. She received the President鈥檚 Entrance Scholarship at 91福利, which recognized her academic accomplishments, leadership qualities, and creative ability. Singh has also received awards from the Royal Canadian Legion Literary contests for multiple essays and poems and was the third-place winner of York University鈥檚 Essay Contest in 2019.

Singh鈥檚 winning paper:

My paper discusses the association of childhood maltreatment with the increased risk of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-traumatic stress disorder (CPSTD). My research demonstrates that those who have experienced childhood maltreatment have a blunted cortisol (stress) response, and this response can lead to PTSD symptoms. Different forms of Childhood Maltreatment, such as sexual abuse and emotional abuse, can have different PTSD symptom outcomes based on the developmental stage of the child, demonstrating the depth of impact that childhood maltreatment has on a child鈥檚 body, not just emotionally but physiologically. My paper also discusses the neural pathway that mediates childhood maltreatment and PTSD, as well as the role of cognitive reappraisal and whether or not it is an adaptive or maladaptive strategy in dealing with PTSD or CPTSD symptoms.

Singh鈥檚 inspiration:

Taking the course CYC 201: Child Abuse and Neglect has equipped me with a comprehensive overview of the complexities surrounding these issues, from psychological to social impacts. Additionally, my passion for working with children has led me to get involved in community work and volunteer projects to help children develop academically and physically.

91福利 Hafsah Younus:

Hafsah completed her BA in Criminology at 91福利. Currently, she is pursuing a Master鈥檚 in Criminology at the University of Ottawa. During her time at 91福利, Hafsah gained valuable experience as a research assistant, contributing to various projects that explored critical issues in Criminology. 

Younus鈥� winning paper:

This paper examines the pivotal role of trust in the dynamics of organized crime, terrorist groups and state institutions. It explores how trust facilitates cooperation and loyalty within these entities, influencing their operations and resilience. By analyzing case studies unique to each culture and state, the different methods of forming organized crime and terrorist groups are discussed and how this can be used to modify current policies to better regulate crime transnationally.

Younus鈥� inspiration:

This interest was sparked by taking a seminar class based on organized crime. Having a discussion in class regarding the role of trust and how it is undermined and under-researched led me to gain a deep passion for wanting to conduct research in this field.