Research Team
Sara Zahid
Sara Zahid is a research assistant affiliated with the University of Regina (U of R), and she has been working with Dr. Mahani since August 2023. During this time, Sara got to advance her research skills and take part in multiple different projects. She also recently graduated (June 2025) with a Bachelor in Health Studies from the U of R’s Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies. Her knowledge and research interest is in health equity and the social determinants of health, especially in relation to public health. Fun fact: In my free time, I enjoy reading and spending time with friends & family.
Shalom Okeugo
Shalom Okeugo is a student at the University of Regina, studying engineering, passionate about the study of landscape architecture and urban planning. With work included in the university's report, BUILDING A YOUTH-FRIENDLY DOWNTOWN, REGINA. Currently Shalom is working as a research assistant under the guidance of Dr. Akram Mahani, working on the latest study which focuses on neighbourhoods and youths’ mental health. Keen about walkability, and wanting to implement her European upbringing, Shalom aims to influence and contribute to the development of more walkable and less car-dependent cities and neighbourhoods. Shalom is bilingual, understanding of a third language.
Jhoanna Katigbak
Hello, my name is Jhoanna Katigbak. I am a Filipino-born and raised digital artist and creative technologist currently residing in Regina, Saskatchewan. As a digital artist, my work focuses on digital media, photography, videography, and web design. I am completing my final year of Bachelor of Arts in Media, Art, and Performance with a concentration in Creative Technologies at the University of Regina.
Fun fact: I play a variety of games at "ungodly hours".
Portia Ludwig
I am a creative technologies student at the University of Regina, interested in storytelling, design, and digital graphics. I enjoy collaborating on projects that connect people through shared creative experiences, whether in academic, cultural, or public settings. A fun fact about me, I love watching scary games at night for the thrills, but I absolutely cannot bring myself to play them.
Ehla Marron
I am Ehla Marron, I am a Visual Arts Major at the U of R. As I venture into my final years of univeristy, I am working towards building my portfolio as an artist, and to move towards being a digital concept artist. One of my favourite things to do is to play silly online games with my friends. On the healthy communities research team, I aim to provide support to the team members and better my community.
Ckintin Cortez
My name is Ckintin Cortez, and I’m a Social Work student at the University of Regina. I was drawn to social work because I’m deeply passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen and supported. I believe that a sense of belonging is deeply healing, and that everyone deserves a community where they feel valued and supported.
I’ve been fortunate to work closely with Professor Akram as a research assistant on a couple of projects. These collaborations have expanded my knowledge and provided valuable hands-on experience. What I find most rewarding is being part of work that inspires hope, sparks important conversations, and contributes to meaningful change in our community.
And a fun fact about me: I’ve recently fallen in love with rock climbing, and I’m hoping to climb a mountain someday.