HOPE Connects Peer Support Program for Youth Living with T1D

Rav Samra Bio

Rav Samra was diagnosed with type one diabetes when she was two years old.

Rav grew up knowing no one with diabetes and this inspired her to meet others with type one and support them. In 2013, Rav received a scholarship from the Diabetes Hope Foundation. She received her BASc in Occupational Health and Safety and HR Management certificate from Toronto Metropolitan University.

Since 2013, Rav has mentored type ones through DHF’s mentorship program. She has spoken at many webinars and in-person events. She is part of the Scholarship Advisory Committee and continues to support the development and execution of DHF’s programs.

Rav is a passionate advocate within the diabetes community. She was interviewed by CBC reflecting on the cost of insulin in Canada and authored a paper with T1International published by Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare.

Close popup

HOPE Connects Peer Support Program

LET’S CONNECT!

Recognizing the impact T1D has on students’ mental health and well-being, DHF created the Hope Connects Program to support students as they balance their T1D during their transition to post-secondary school. In 2023, we have been able to expand our program so students can access information and support through a variety of forums. The program also offers valuable leadership opportunities for DHF Alumni volunteers.

APPLY FOR A MENTOR

JOIN US ON DISCORD

Peer Support Program, Peer Support, Peer Mentorship, Mentorship Program, T1D Mentorship, Type 1 diabetes mentor

ONE TO ONE PEER MENTORSHIP

In 2022, our peer mentorship program expanded, and is now offered to all Grade 12, first- and second-year students living with T1D across Canada. With over 50 active peer mentors, students can connect one on one with someone who ‘gets it’ and who will encourage and inspire them to achieve both their academic goals and better long-term health outcomes. All of our mentors complete six hours of training, and receive ongoing support from both our Program Director and our Senior Mentors.

APPLY FOR A MENTOR

Peer Support Program, T1D Drop-Ins, Drop-Ins

NEW MONTHLY DROP-INS

In 2023 we launched our monthly virtual drop-ins, providing students across Ontario with a safe space to talk about their experiences of managing T1D as post-students.

JOIN US ON INSTAGRAM

NEW DISCORD FORUM

In the fall of 2003, DHF launched an online support forum for all post-secondary students living with T1D. ‘T1D Campus Connect’ is accessible through both our website and on Discord, offering students a venue to talk about their challenges and successes around diabetes management at school.

CONNECT ON DISCORD

Peer support program, T1D Campus Connect, Discord Channel, Diabetes Discord Channel

Hope Connects Peer Mentorship Program, Contact Us, Diabetes clubs

NEW CAMPUS DIABETES CLUB EVENTS

In 2022, DHF staff and alumni worked to build partnerships with campus Diabetes Clubs across Ontario. We are currently collaborating with eight diabetes clubs, focused on increasing awareness and knowledge about T1D and supporting students on their campuses. Through multiple virtual workshops hosted during the school year, these collaborations have focused on discussing the impact T1D has on students’ mental health, as well as the value of social and emotional support. In 2023, we worked with students at Queens University and University of Guelph to help them launch their own Diabetes Clubs and look forward to supporting others who are interested in building a community of support on campus for students with T1D. For more information, contact [email protected]

VIEW EVENTS CALENDAR

VIEW Campus Club List