Canada’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) has recently announced the winners of its 2025 Impact Awards. These awards recognize researchers who have made significant contributions to society through their work, and who have demonstrated a deep commitment to creating a better future for all. This year’s winners include four exceptional researchers, whose studies cover a diverse range of topics and have the potential to make a lasting impact on our world.
One of the winners is a researcher who has dedicated their career to studying the effects of war on children. This is an issue that has unfortunately become all too prevalent in our world today. With armed conflicts and violence affecting millions of children around the globe, this researcher’s work is crucial in understanding the long-term consequences of war on the youngest and most vulnerable members of society. Through their research, they have shed light on the devastating impact of war on children’s physical and mental well-being, and have advocated for policies and programs that can mitigate this harm. Their work serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect and support the children who are caught in the crossfire of war.
Another winner took a unique approach to studying rural development by literally taking a worm’s eye view. This researcher recognized that rural areas often face unique challenges and have been historically overlooked in development efforts. By studying the soil and its inhabitants, they have gained a deeper understanding of the complex and interconnected systems that sustain rural communities. This knowledge has informed the development of innovative and sustainable practices that can boost agricultural productivity, improve food security, and promote economic growth in rural areas. Their research has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of millions of people living in rural communities around the world.
The remaining two winners focused on issues that are of critical importance in today’s world – climate change and Indigenous rights. One researcher examined the impact of climate change on the Arctic and its Indigenous communities. Their work has highlighted the urgent need to address the effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems and the livelihoods of Indigenous peoples who depend on them. By amplifying the voices of these communities, this researcher has brought much-needed attention to the climate crisis and the need for urgent action. The other winner has dedicated their career to promoting the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Through their research, they have exposed the systemic inequalities and injustices faced by Indigenous communities and have advocated for policies and programs that can redress these historic wrongs. Their work has played a crucial role in advancing reconciliation and promoting social justice in Canada.
The impact of these researchers’ work extends well beyond the academic world. Their studies have the potential to shape policies, change attitudes, and improve the lives of people in Canada and around the world. They are shining examples of the power of social science research to create positive change and a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
The SSHRC Impact Awards also recognize the importance of collaboration and community engagement in research. The winners have all demonstrated a strong commitment to working with community partners and involving diverse voices in their studies. This has not only enriched their research but has also ensured that their findings are relevant and accessible to those who can benefit from them the most.
As we face unprecedented challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing climate crisis, the work of these researchers is more important than ever. They have shown us the power of social science research to address complex issues and create positive change. Their dedication, passion, and innovative thinking are an inspiration to us all.
In conclusion, the 2025 Impact Award winners represent the best of the Canadian social science research community. Their work is a testament to the transformative potential of social science research and its ability to make a meaningful impact on society. We congratulate and thank these exceptional researchers for their contributions, and we look forward to seeing how their work will continue to shape our world for the better.
