Background

Organization	Cambrian College
Professional Title	Student
Bio and Background	With a background in biomedical engineering, I’ve worked in hospital settings, managing medical devices, and in the medical device manufacturing sector, driving business growth. Now at Cambrian College, I’m refining my skills in healthcare technology and strategy. I’m passionate about leveraging innovation to improve healthcare outcomes and advance medical technology.
Why I am a Force for Health® Member...	As a Force for Health Ambassador, I aim to contribute to global health initiatives, promote access to medical technology, and advocate for innovative solutions that enhance patient care. Being part of this network aligns with my mission to drive positive change in healthcare through education, collaboration, and technology-driven advancements.
How I use the Force for Health Network Tools	The platform helps me track my health goals, stay informed about wellness strategies, and connect with like-minded individuals who prioritize fitness and overall health. By using these resources, I stay motivated to maintain an active lifestyle, manage stress, and ensure that I am at my best—both physically and mentally—to contribute effectively to the healthcare industry.
My inspiration	I inspire myself through my own commitment to growth and resilience. The ability to balance my technical expertise in biomedical engineering with my passion for healthcare innovation drives me forward. Despite the challenges I’ve faced, including transitioning between different professional environments and adapting to new cultural contexts, I have remained focused on my goals of improving healthcare outcomes and contributing to the evolving landscape of medical devices. My experiences fuel my motivation to push through obstacles, adapt, and learn from every opportunity. The belief in my ability to bridge technology, strategy, and patient care keeps me moving toward my vision of creating a healthier future for all.
Location	Sudbury,Ontario
What would you like people to know about your community?	I want people to know that my community values collaboration, innovation, and diversity in healthcare. We are a group of individuals committed to improving everyone’s well-being, regardless of their background or circumstances. My community actively engages in health education, preventive care, and support systems to make healthcare more accessible and effective. What makes my community special is its ability to come together to tackle challenges,

My Citizenship Health Factors

Some of the factors that have been challenging for me have been...	ome of the factors that have been challenging for me have been the sudden change in my background and the cultural shock I experienced while transitioning to a new environment. Moving from a familiar professional setting to a different academic and cultural landscape required me to adapt quickly, both personally and professionally. Adjusting to new systems, expectations, and ways of communication has been challenging, but it has also helped me grow, become more resilient, and embrace new perspectives. These experiences have strengthened my ability to navigate change and reinforced my commitment to advancing healthcare innovation on a global scale.
It's important for me to be part of my community's health because...	As someone with a background in biomedical engineering and a passion for improving healthcare outcomes, I believe that community health is the foundation for overall well-being. Being involved allows me to contribute to making healthcare more accessible, equitable, and effective for those who need it most. By sharing my expertise, advocating for better health technologies, and promoting wellness initiatives, I can help bridge gaps and drive positive change in the way people experience healthcare. It’s essential to create a healthier, more informed community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Some of the strength of my community health factors are:	My community excels in collaboration and support systems, with healthcare professionals, organizations, and local groups working together to provide access to resources, health education, and preventive care. I’m proud of the commitment to wellness and innovation, where people actively engage in health initiatives, whether it’s through fitness programs, mental health support, or sustainability efforts. What makes me proud is seeing how the community embraces diversity and works collectively to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, have the opportunity to lead healthy lives.
Some of the challenges in my community regarding certain health factors are:	One of the main challenges is mental health stigma, which prevents many individuals from seeking help or discussing their struggles openly. There’s also a lack of sufficient resources for mental health services, making it difficult for people to access the support they need. Another challenge is poor lifestyle choices, such as low physical activity and unhealthy eating habits, which contribute to rising rates of obesity and related chronic diseases.
I believe I can help improve my community's health by...	By promoting health education and preventive measures, I can help raise awareness about the importance of early detection and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, I can collaborate with local healthcare professionals and organizations to ensure that resources are more accessible, particularly in underserved areas. My goal is to bridge the gap between technology and community needs, creating solutions that are not only effective but also equitable, so everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy life.

Advancing the DREAM

Advancing the DREAM - What it means to me

Dr. King’s quote about healthcare injustice resonates deeply with me, especially when considering the ongoing health disparities faced by marginalized communities. These inequities fuel my passion to help bridge gaps in healthcare access. By leveraging my background in biomedical engineering, I can work to make medical technology more accessible, advocate for health equity, and support initiatives that address social determinants of health. In the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy, I am committed to creating inclusive healthcare solutions that ensure equality and opportunity for all.

My Action Pledge to Advance the DREAM?

In 2025, I will focus on increasing access to innovative healthcare technologies for underserved communities. I pledge to actively advocate for the integration of affordable medical devices and health solutions that address the specific needs of marginalized populations. By collaborating with healthcare professionals, organizations, and policymakers, I will work towards bridging the technology gap and ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background, has access to the tools necessary for better health outcomes. This commitment will help advance health equity and continue the fight for justice and equality in healthcare, in line with Dr. King’s legacy.

Name	Arpana Ann
Last Name	Thomas
Nickname	arpanaannthomasgmail-com

arpanaannthomasgmail-com