ABSTRACT

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35th Annual Canadian Conference on HIV/AIDS Research April 23-26, 2026 35e Congrès annuel canadien de recherche sur le VIH/sida 23 au 26 avril 2026 

 

Social Sciences - Poster Abstracts / Sciences sociales - Abrégés affiches 

Abstract #378 

Culturally Responsive Sexual Health and Wellbeing Programming for Trans and Gender Diverse Middle Eastern and North African Newcomer Young Adults in Ontario: Community-Based Participatory Research through Arts-Based Approaches. 

 

Roula Kteily-Hawa1, Nona Abdallah2, Sarah Flicker3, Trevor Hart4, Khalil Rantissi5, Lissette Ochoa6 

1Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada, 2Trans Wellness Ontario, Windsor, Canada, 3York University, Toronto, Canada, 4Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada, 5Western University, London, Canada, 6Western University, London, Canada 

 

Background: There is a dearth of research on the unique challenges trans and gender diverse (TGD) newcomers and immigrant young adults face when accessing health and social services in the Canadian context. TGD people have worse mental and physical health outcomes, such as depression and anxiety, compared to their cisgender peers. A highly under-researched community, Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) young adults, including TGD youth face unique challenges in navigating HIV and STBBIs even as the community grows rapidly due to high immigration rates. Objectives: this study used community-based participatory research methodology to: 1) examine barriers and facilitators in achieving positive sexual and mental health among trans, non-binary and gender-nonconforming MENA newcomers in Ontario; 2) catalyze community-led research planning and development activities that ensure the inclusion and meaningful representation of TGD MENA newcomers; 3) develop culturally responsive services that will address the sexual and mental health needs for TGD MENA newcomers; and 4) engage TGD MENA youth and service providers in strengthening capacity for knowledge mobilization. Methodology: The study engaged 21 TGD MENA newcomer young adults, ages 21-35 years in Toronto and Windsor, Ontario as participants and co-researchers in a participatory photovoice and visual arts research to co-create knowledge and understanding and engage in collective action. Stage 1: Co-Activation through Arts-Based Expressions. Stage 2: Interviews and Journal Reflections. Stage 3: Data Analysis. Knowledge Translation: 1) three (3) culturally responsive workshops for addressing sexual and mental health challenges and needs; 2) five (5) workshops for co-creating art content and products; and 3) exhibit. Team: TGD peer knowledge users, people living with HIV, and researchers from across Ontario. Our governance embraces GIPA and MIPA principles. Impact: Through participatory arts-based research processes, our project has the potential to generate culturally-responsive programming that will improve access to services for this highly underserved community.