The AI for Public Health (AI4PH) Health Research Training Platform, Co-Directed by Professor Laura Rosella, held their 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the University of Calgary on July 22, 2024. The AGM brings together AI4PH mentors and trainees, stakeholders, and invited guests to discuss the organization’s achievements, challenges, and future plans. This year, there were 46 attendees representing universities and partner organizations from six provinces and territories across Canada, including Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon.
With local host, Joon Lee, and the entire AI4PH Directors, the meeting featured a novel keynote presentation:
- Professor Geoff Messier shared emerging research on AI and homelessness.
- Assistant Professor Sayeh Bayat discussed opportunities for AI to support Aging and Dementia.
- Associate Professor Tracie Risling discussed creative connectivity to build AI capacity
The meeting also featured a Community Engagement Session led by the members of the Community Advisory Board. The 2023-24 AI4PH trainees and interns also discussed their research and had opportunities to network with members across the country. The AGM was followed by the 2024 AI4PH Summer Institute, which immersed scholars and trainees across the country for four days of methods and skills on the theme “Introduction to image analysis and applications to public health”.
The AI4PH AGM was a resounding success, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue, strategic planning, and community building. As one attendee stated: “The whole experience was very engaging and valuable! I felt all the talk could be applied to my research and exchanging ideas with other scholars was great.”. The insights gained and connections made during the event will drive the initiative forward in the coming year.