معرفی
Uppala Chandrasekera is an Assistant Professor (Status Only) and Sessional Lecturer at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto. She brings over two decades of professional experience in the health sector, currently serving as Director of Public Health, responsible for Public Health Strategy and Clinical Services at Toronto Public Health. Her academic and professional work is deeply rooted in mental health, public policy, and equity.
Her research interests center on the impact of racism, discrimination, and lived experience on the mental health and wellbeing of marginalized populations. With a strong background in both frontline services and systemic policy development, her work spans clinical practice, community health, and national strategy implementation. She has contributed significantly to public mental health through leadership roles in major organizations.
Uppala has served on several influential boards, including the Mental Health Commission of Canada (2012–2018), Toronto Police Services Board (2017–2020), Parkdale Community Health Centre (2008–2014), and currently serves on the Daymark Foundation board. These roles highlight her commitment to transforming mental health systems through inclusive governance and policy.
While no publications are listed in the source text, her work in public health strategy, clinical services, and equity-informed policy suggests a strong applied research and advocacy orientation. She integrates community engagement with academic scholarship to advance social justice in health.
- Director of Public Health, Toronto Public Health
- Former Director of Public Policy, Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario (2013–2022)
- Board Member, Daymark Foundation (current)
- Board Member, Mental Health Commission of Canada (2012–2018)
- Board Member, Toronto Police Services Board (2017–2020)
- Board Member, Parkdale Community Health Centre (2008–2014)
Uppala Chandrasekera holds an MSW and is a Registered Social Worker (RSW). Her career bridges academia, public health leadership, and policy advocacy, positioning her as a key figure in advancing mental health equity in Canada.
