Transforming Practices Conference 2026

When life or work is shaken by loss or disruption, how do we find our footing again? This contemplative and creative workshop invites professionals to explore resilience, connection, and renewal through guided writing and storytelling.
Participants will reflect on experiences of isolation, reconnection, and rebuilding; considering both personal responses and the ways these insights can strengthen their work with children, families, and colleagues. Through shared stories and structured reflection, attendees leave with renewed perspective, practical strategies, and a deeper understanding of how to navigate challenging situations with clarity and compassion.

NEW ABSTRACT:
For this presentation, we discuss the research on adolescent sexual exploitation to understand the factors that associate with sexual exploitation for both adolescent boys and girls. We assess further if the sexual exploitation of boys is linked with similar risky behaviours as noted among girls. With specific focus on marginalized adolescent boys, we explore the factors that help build their resilience in the face of sexual exploitation victimization.

Please note this session has recently been updated with a new topic and abstract.

Student Engagement in Child and Youth Well-being: Community Service Learning, Applied Study, and Summer Research Initiatives. This will be a showcase of student work, with students presenting on the impact of their community-engaged projects.