Michelle
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The Story

Having grown up in Canada, Michelle has had the privilege of receiving high-quality, accessible healthcare through a public health system. However, she was made aware from a young age that not everybody was fortunate enough to have access to medical care, let alone receive cost-free treatment. After seeing the positive impact public service creates, Michelle aspired to give back to the community in hopes that she too could make a difference in the lives of others, no matter how small.

Michelle founded Print a Hand, an initiative dedicated to bridging the gap in access to healthcare by providing affordable prosthetic solutions to those in need. By utilizing 3D printing technology, Print a Hand creates customized, low-cost prosthetics that are provided completely free to recipients. The initiative is currently focused on supporting individuals in Uganda and Gaza, where access to such devices is limited. In addition, she is working on a research paper on brain cancer treatment.

Over the years, Michelle has gained valuable experience and developed a wide range of skills through various opportunities. She is currently a youth facilitator for the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Here4Peers program, where she educates elementary school students about mental health and self-support strategies. Michelle also coordinates a homework club, organizing high school volunteers to tutor younger students from families who cannot afford traditional tutoring. Throughout high school, she has competed in sprint events in track and field for both her school and club. Drawing from her own athletic experience, she also coaches her school’s track team.

Michelle hopes to major in public health for pre-medical studies and ultimately hopes to become an oncologist at a public hospital, where she can provide care for cancer patients from diverse backgrounds, continuing her commitment to public service and pursuit of accessible healthcare.