My name is Shania. I’m a medical student, researcher, and co-founder of the Canadian Courage Project, a non-profit I started with my sister to support youth in animal-friendly shelters. After completing my PhD, I decided to pursue medicine, a path inspired by my passion for improving access to healthcare for young women. “If we’re healthy, we’re happy. And if we’re happy, we’re healthy,” I always say.

I was raised in Stouffville by parents from Trinidad, and my Caribbean roots have shaped my open-minded outlook and appreciation for new ideas and ways of living. Women inspire me, especially those who overcome hard things.

When we spoke, I was setting up a dinner party for my friends, candles lit, table half-styled, a playlist already going. It felt like such a true reflection of my motto, Do It All — a blend of curiosity, care, and connection, all unfolding at once.

I am—

Optimistic.

To me, a home is not complete without—

Warm lighting, warm candles, and warm colours.

I recharge by—

Throwing monthly dinner parties for my friends.

The scent of Vanilla always reminds me of—

My undergrad house, shared with six of my best friends.

I light candles to—

Bring a sense of peace to the room.

My feel good fragrance is—

ERDE, always.

I'm currently obsessing over—

Dried flowers.