Explore current and past research from the Colbourne Institute. This repository highlights active projects and reports from completed projects, with new materials added as our work continues to evolve.
Current research
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From the Ground Up: Evaluating the Impact of Municipal Immigration Policies
Led by Dr. Zeina Sleiman
$353,468 over three years | NSERC funded
In partnership with the City of Edmonton and local settlement and cultural agencies, this project focuses on two key priorities. It aims to identify how local institutions are creating structures to support newcomers within a shifting federal policy landscape. It also examines the impact of inclusion policies on newcomer outcomes, particularly in employment and business.
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Improving Accessibility Measures to Support Injured Workers in Alberta
Led by Brooke Leifso, Research Chair in Accessibility and Inclusion
$358,255 over three years | NSERC funded
In partnership with community organizations including the Alberta Workers’ Health Centre, Islamic Family, and UFCW Local 401, this project focuses on understanding and addressing the challenges faced by injured workers who struggle to access formal support systems. The project will identify underserved groups and system gaps, and develop practical tools and strategies to improve access to supports and enhance quality of life.
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Pathways Unlocked: Reimagining Career Guidance for Racialized Students
Led by Brooke Leifso, Research Chair in Accessibility and Inclusion
In partnership with the Skill City institute, this research project seeks to investigate the educational and career barriers and challenges faced by racialized students in grades 9-12, their parents, and families from equitably and inclusively accessing Edmonton’s education system.
Participants needed for survey: Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC) 18-25
Survey closes September 18, 2026
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Working to Inspire & Nurture Generations to Soar (W.I.N.G.S): Building neuroaffirming anti-racist, worship places
Led by Brooke Leifso, Research Chair in Accessibility and Inclusion
In partnership with Berean Church of God International and actively involving the Autistic spiritual community, we aim to understand the intersection between best practices in creating neuroaffirming and inclusive environments and anti-racist, Black spirituality.
Participants needed for survey: Autistic and neurodivergent people of faith and spirituality, including youth (18-25) and their families (those with children under 18 and/or higher support needs)
Survey closes September 15, 2026
Featured projects
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Navigating Home: Illuminating the Experiences of Black Youth in Edmonton
Examines the housing experiences of African, Caribbean and Black youth in Edmonton, to identify challenges, successes, and resilience strategies.
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Empowering Newcommers to Succeed
Analyzes how service delivery models shape newcomers’ settlement experiences, drawing on research and data from over 400 newcomers and 50 practitioners to assess how approaches align with diverse needs and goals.
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Four level Framework for Accessibility
This framework is designed to support more accessible learning experiences for Autistic learners through the interplay of four key components in the learning environment.
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A New Approach to Assessing Prior Learning
Research findings from piloting a new prior learning and assessment platform for professionals in the supply chain Industry.
Archived projects
Looking for some of our older work? Look them up in our applied research project archive
Let's build something together
We work alongside organizations to design and lead applied community research rooted in inclusion, and we're always open to new partnerships. If you have an idea or funding for a project, we'd love to hear from you. Share your research proposal and let's explore what we can create together.
Privacy statement
The personal information collected on this web form will be used to contact you about projects, partnerships, and updates from the Colbourne Institute for Inclusive Leadership. Collection is authorized under section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act and is managed in accordance with the Act. Questions about the collection and use of the personal information can be directed to the Director, Colbourne Institute for Inclusive Leadership, 10230 108 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1L4. Email: colbourneinstitute@norquest.ca. Telephone: 780.644.6446.