August Virtual Event
In a world shaped by increasingly complex experiences and perspectives, truly inclusive communication requires being aware of the language we use and the impact it can have on others. This is a science communication workshop focused on trauma-informed language that equips writers and communicators with tools to share complex scientific information in ways that are accurate, empathetic, and accessible to diverse audiences. Participants learn how trauma can shape how people interpret information, especially on topics such as health, climate, or crises, and how to avoid language that may unintentionally alienate, overwhelm, or retraumatize readers/listeners.
The workshop will cover principles such as clarity without sensationalism, inclusive framing, and audience awareness. Through practical examples and exercises, attendees practice reframing technical or emotionally charged content using respectful, non-triggering language while still maintaining scientific integrity. The goal is to help communicators build trust, foster understanding, and engage broad audiences more effectively by balancing rigour with compassion.
Date: Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. ET via Zoom
Cost: Free for SWCC Members / $30 CAD for Non-Members
Are you a non-member of SWCC registering for this event? If you decide to become a member of SWCC within 2 weeks of the event date, your membership fee (in the applicable category) will be discounted by the amount you paid for event registration. To activate your discounted membership within the 2-week period, email office@sciencewriters.ca.
Speakers: Drs. Sandhya Mylabathula, PhD and Swapna Mylabathula, PhD, MD (in-progress)
Drs. Sandhya Mylabathula, PhD and Swapna Mylabathula, PhD, MD (in-progress), are The STEAM Sisters (IG:@steam.sisters), an award-winning science communication duo! When they’re not on fun STEAM adventures, these twin scientists are award-winning educators and researchers. They developed a national concussion strategy which launched National Concussion Awareness Week, consulted on Canada’s first provincial concussion legislation, and delivered a TEDxTalk on youth engagement/health policy. They are honoured to be in the top 50 Most Influential Torontonians (GridTO Magazine) and Urban Heroes (Toronto Community News) for their contributions! They were recognized with an award for Best Program for a youth science series exploring careers of women in STEAM that they co-created and co-hosted – and are working on new series. Their most recent research incorporates trauma-informed care in a concussion context and they brought these concepts to the Future of Sport in Canada Commission in 2025, which were incorporated in the resulting report.
