Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024–2025 Annual Outstanding Awards, honouring individuals across its community for their exemplary contributions to neurodevelopmental disability research, mentorship, and inclusive family engagement. This year’s awardees reflect the heart of KBHN’s mission: advancing research, amplifying lived experience, and transforming outcomes for children and families.

Outstanding KBHN Trainee Member Award

Awardees: Carly Magnacca and Olivia Tsihlias

Carly Magnacca

Carly Magnacca

Carly Magnacca, a PhD candidate in Clinical Developmental Psychology, was recognized for her passionate commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of individuals with autism and their caregivers. Her research, in collaboration with CAMH, is co-designing an Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) workshop centered on lived experience. Carly’s academic journey, including dual Master’s degrees, is defined by her dedication to inclusive, community-engaged research.

Olivia Tsihlias

Olivia Tsihlias

Olivia Tsihlias, a PhD candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of British Columbia, brings a blend of neuroimaging, implementation science, and family-centered research to her work. A certified Implementation Support Specialist and recipient of the KBHN Implementation Skills Development Award, Olivia has demonstrated leadership across multiple platforms, including UBC and the International Society for Research and Advocacy for DCD.

Outstanding Promising Researcher Award

Awardee: Alice Soper

Alice Soper

Alice Kelen Soper, a PhD candidate at McMaster University and clinical research assistant at CanChild, received this award for her work on family-centred service models. With a background in global health and child health, Alice’s research bridges implementation science and family engagement, and she was honoured nationally with the prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship in 2023.

Outstanding Mentor/Supervisor Award

Awardee: Johanna Lake

Johanna Lake

Johanna Lake, a scientist and psychologist at CAMH, was celebrated for her mentorship and leadership in integrating lived experience into mental health programs for neurodivergent individuals. Johanna’s work centers on translating research into community-based supports, reinforcing KBHN’s commitment to accessible, evidence-informed care.

Outstanding KBHN Leadership in Family Engagement in Research

Outstanding Family Leader Awardees: Amanda St. Dennis and Yvonne Spicer

Amanda St Dennis

Amanda St. Dennis is recognized for her leadership as a self-advocate with cerebral palsy, ADHD, anxiety, and autism. A co-instructor and content developer for KBHN’s Family Engagement in Research (FER) course, Amanda is also a key contributor to multiple national research initiatives, advocating for accessibility, inclusion, and the value of lived experience.

Yvonne Spicer

Yvonne Spicer, an advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities, brings both expertise and activism to the forefront. Through her work with the Participatory Advocacy Research Network (PARN) and other initiatives, Yvonne pushes for fair compensation and respect in research partnerships, ensuring that the voices of self-advocates lead the way in shaping policy and practice.

Inclusive Researcher/Innovator Awardee: Samantha Micsinszki

Samantha Micsinszki

 

Samantha Micsinszki, PhD, RN, is honoured for her contributions to inclusive research design and engagement training. As Training Director of the CanChild Family Engagement in Research Program, Sam plays a vital role in shaping educational programs that prioritize co-creation and equity. Her postdoctoral work at the Centre for Equity-Based Co-Creation exemplifies her dedication to embedding inclusion at every stage of research and service development.