Phoebe N.

About Phoebe N.

Hello! I\'m Phoebe, a passionate advocate for interdisciplinary learning and an aspiring legal professional. I hold a Master\'s in International Development from the University of Cambridge and a Bachelor\'s of Arts and Science from McMaster University. My academic journey has been shaped by a deep interest in governance, health, and social policy. Over the next few years, I hope to gain more professional experience in fields related to my passions and continue on the path of higher education. My Master’s dissertation explored the role of language in the development of PEPFAR’s HIV/AIDS policy, highlighting how the institutional conceptualization of queer subjects reflects intervention strategies across Uganda and South Africa. In particular, using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), I explored how socio-political narratives permeate programme objectives and, in turn, affect health outcomes in marginalized communities. This research deepened my understanding of how policy frameworks affect individual lives, opportunity, and well-being, reinforcing my interest in advocating for the needs of vulnerable populations. My commitment to understanding the complexities of global socio-political issues is also grounded in hands-on experience. I currently assist both Immigrant Women Services Ottawa and the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization, aiming to support marginalized groups as they rebuild their lives in Canada. Through this work, I strive to empower individuals by offering guidance and resources tailored to their unique challenges and needs. In recent years, I also completed two internships as a junior analyst at the Royal Bank of Canada, where I gained valuable experience in project management, compliance, and corporate social responsibility. This professional exposure has strengthened my problem-solving skills and underscored the importance of accessible, equitable solutions across institutional settings. Moving forward, I aim to continue building expertise in global health, policy analysis and advocacy, and am excited to engage in new roles that allow me to apply these interests in practical, impactful ways. When I\'m not working, you’ll find me immersed in modern literature. My favourite reads of 2024 include Obasan by Joy Kogawa and Structures of Indifference by Adele Perry and Mary McCallum. Let’s chat about- Global health- The intersection of technology, business, and social responsibility- The future of higher education- Your favourite reads of 2024.

Experience

1. Client Advocate - Court Accompaniment Program

   Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO)

   Sep 2024 — Present · Ottawa, ON, CA

   Accompany clients to court proceedings, offering emotional support during challenging situations- Assist with note-taking to ensure accurate documentation of court proceedings for clients’ reference- Build trusting relationships to create a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable individuals.Collaborating with legal professionals and community organizations to advocate for clients\' needs- Raise awareness about the challenges faced by immigrant women, particularly victims of domestic abuse, and promoting access to resources and support services- Provide other assistance to clients through direct accompaniment to appointments and services in the community, including those related to physical and mental health, employment, and housing, as needed.

Education

• Colonel By Secondary School

  International Baccalaureate

  2015 — 2019

• University of Cambridge

  Master of Philosophy

  2023 — 2024

• McMaster University

  Bachelor's degree

  2019 — 2023