Rishma Chooniedass

Rishma Chooniedass is an Associate Professor at the School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan. With a career spanning over a decade, she has coordinated national epidemiological studies in maternal and child health before transitioning to her current role as an educator and researcher. Her work focuses on food allergy/anaphylaxis management, equity and social justice in healthcare education, and global health capacity building.

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2000)
• Master of Nursing (2017)

Research interests include food allergy in children, cultural safety integration in nursing programs, and postpartum health challenges. Her recent publications analyze breastfeeding outcomes, vaccine hesitancy, and pediatric allergy interventions. She has received multiple teaching awards including the UBC Golden Apple Teaching Award and Excellence in Nursing Education Award.

As advisor to the Dean on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, she contributes to initiatives across nursing, social work, and broader academic communities. Her media appearances include podcast discussions on food allergy parenting and blog contributions about relationship-building in healthcare.