Balancing a combined PhD/MScOT program is both highly rewarding and incredibly demanding. For Leah Taylor, receiving the Barb Worth Emergent Leader Award was more than just financial support – it was a recognition of her contributions to the profession and an encouragement to prioritize her own wellbeing along the way.
“This recognition alleviated financial pressures and reinforced my confidence in continuing along this challenging but meaningful path.”
A passion for pediatrics
Leah’s primary area of interest is in pediatric occupational therapy, with a focus on how movement-based occupations can support children’s overall wellbeing. Her journey into this field began through volunteer work with Challenger Baseball, an adaptive t-ball league, which piqued her interest in inclusive activities. This led her to explore Canadian OTs’ perspectives on applying the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years in practice with preschoolers with disabilities.
Building on this work, Leah collaborated with OTs, caregivers, and researchers to co-design Early Movers, an open-access resource that helps occupational therapists implement the guidelines in practice. This fall, Leah will be bringing her expertise directly to children and families as she joins the Thames Valley Children’s Centre in London, Ontario, as part of their school health team.
The power of community
For Leah, the sense of community in occupational therapy stands out as one of the most rewarding aspects of the profession.
“I have received immense support and mentorship from occupational therapists at all career stages in my journey to date. I’m proud to be a part of a profession where members constantly build each other up, help each other out, and cheer each other on.”
Advice for future COTF scholarship applicants
Applying for scholarships can feel daunting, but for students considering applying for a COTF scholarship, Leah offered this encouragement:
“Lean on your professors and peers for support because they are always willing to help. I was very fortunate to receive feedback on my application from members of the faculty in my occupational therapy program. It really helped me to overcome the sense of imposter syndrome when putting my name forward for consideration of an award.”
Life outside of occupational therapy
Outside of work, Leah enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, running, camping, and gardening with her husband, friends, and family.