Zara Belanger-Pepper, at just 18 years old, has already established herself as a passionate advocate for children’s mental health. Her efforts recently earned her a prestigious $40,000 Laurier Scholars Award as she approaches the completion of her first year studying psychology and neuroscience at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo.
Early Beginnings and Advocacy
Belanger-Pepper’s journey towards becoming a mental health champion started at the age of 11 when she penned a children’s book titled What I Have Learned (About Life After Suicide) after losing her father. This personal experience not only spurred her into public speaking but also ignited a lifelong commitment to advocating for children’s mental well-being.
A Healing Journey Through Writing
Collaborating with her grandmother, Jane Parry, on the book was a form of healing for Belanger-Pepper. “I wrote it for myself initially, but we soon realized it could help others,” she shared, highlighting the therapeutic power of creative expression.
Inheriting a Passion for Neuroscience
Belanger-Pepper’s fascination with the brain and neuroscience is deeply rooted in her family. Her mother, Dr. Andrea Pepper, was pursuing her PhD in neurophysiology when she was born. This familial connection to neuroscience has fueled Belanger-Pepper’s academic pursuits and enthusiasm for understanding the brain’s complexities.
Exploring Sensory Neuroscience and Mental Health Heredity
Her studies at Laurier delve into sensory neuroscience, exploring how the senses collaborate and how people perceive stimuli. Additionally, she is intrigued by the hereditary aspects of mental health and the development of mental health issues in the brain.
Bridging Theory with Practice
Part of Belanger-Pepper’s scholarship includes funding for experiential learning, allowing her to delve into practical research. She plans to work on a directed study project with Dr. Nichole Scheerer, focusing on sensory science research at Simon Fraser University. This project aims to investigate auditory feedback in children with special needs like autism.
Embracing Future Aspirations
The news of winning the scholarship brought immense joy to Belanger-Pepper, fueling her determination to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. Her summer role as a camp counselor at the YMCA of Chatham-Kent has further solidified her passion for working with children.
A Bright Path Ahead
Belanger-Pepper’s aspirations for the future include exploring specialties like pediatric neurosurgery, pediatric psychiatry, or family medicine, all centered around her love for working with children. Her unwavering dedication to improving children’s mental health serves as an inspiration and a testament to the impact of early advocacy and determination.
