Sarah Awada
Women of Inspiration
Sarah Awada is a youth leader, researcher, and community advocate whose work is grounded in resilience, empathy, and a commitment to improving the well-being of others.
Her perspective was shaped by a personal health journey in high school, when she was diagnosed with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). After a difficult period of illness and recovery, she transformed that experience into a deeper sense of purpose, dedicating herself to supporting others.
As a research mentee with the University of Ottawa Research Opportunity Program (2024–present), she has contributed to biomedical research exploring the potential applications of ant biology in cancer treatment. This experience has strengthened her scientific inquiry skills and reinforced her aspiration to pursue medicine that combines research innovation with patient-centred care.
In 2024, she founded uoPILATES, the first Pilates club at the University of Ottawa, in response to growing student mental health challenges. The initiative provides a supportive space focused on movement, mindfulness, and community connection, helping students manage stress and build a sense of belonging. Through this work, she has demonstrated leadership in promoting mental wellness and peer support on campus.
Her commitment to service extends across Ottawa. From 2020 to 2022, she volunteered at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), where she co-led a project that produced and donated over 4,000 customized masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. She continues to volunteer at The Ottawa Hospital, supporting patients and healthcare teams.
Sarah is also engaged in global and local advocacy through UNICEF uOttawa (2024–2025), World Vision Canada, and the Ottawa Food Bank, supporting initiatives focused on child welfare and food security. In addition, she has long supported youth development as a tutor, swim instructor, lifeguard, soccer coach, and Kumon instructor, helping young people build confidence and resilience.
Through her academic excellence and volunteer leadership, Sarah Awada represents a generation of emerging leaders committed to advancing health, equity, and service through empathy and action. In 2025, Sarah was recognized as a recipient of the Famous 5 Award for her community impact.
