Congratulations to Makenzie McCallum, supervised by Dr Naznin Virji-Babul, for receiving the 2025 Canadian Association for Medical Education (CAME) Rising Star – Certificate of Excellence Award! This prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions to research, particularly Makenzie’s work on concussion awareness among Indigenous ice hockey players.
Tell us about your lab and current research:
I am part of the Brain Development: Perception to Action Lab, supervised by Dr. Naznin Virji-Babul. Our lab combines behavioural research with brain imaging tools (i.e. DTI and EEG) to probe the brain and investigate the patterns of brain activation as they relate to perceptual-motor and social-emotional development in children and youth. My current research focuses on concussion awareness in Indigenous Ice Hockey players, using qualitative methods to explore their experiences and understanding of concussions.
What project are you working on?
For my master’s research, I am investigating concussion knowledge and awareness among Indigenous Ice Hockey players. My study explores how these athletes understand concussions, their healing and recovery processes, and the challenges they face within hockey and healthcare systems. I have completed data collection and analysis and am now in the process of writing my thesis.
What drew you to this research area?
As an Indigenous Ice Hockey player who has experienced concussions firsthand, I understand the differences between Indigenous hockey systems and other hockey organizations. I recognized a gap in research and wanted to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard in conversations around concussion education, prevention, and recovery. My goal is to bring awareness to these experiences and contribute to meaningful change.
What is unique about what you do?
This research is unique because there has been very little focus on concussions in Indigenous Ice Hockey players, with only two studies published on the topic. As an Indigenous Researcher, I feel as though it is important to share these athletes’ experiences and perspectives. This work helps improve education, support, and policies to ensure better concussion care for Indigenous players.
What is one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
Alongside my master’s research, I play for the UBC Women’s Varsity Ice Hockey team. I feel incredibly privileged to compete at this level throughout my university career and to be part of one of the top teams in the country!