Become a Placement Student

At SMILE, we offer students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic, community-driven environment. Our placements provide valuable insight into working with children with disabilities and their families from diverse backgrounds while helping students develop practical skills in their field of study. Interested in becoming a SMILE placement student?
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Meet our Placement Students

Yusra Aslam

Program Coordination
Salaam! My name is Yusra, and I’m a Health Sciences student at the University of Waterloo. My interests are in social determinants of health, and addressing inequities in marginalized communities. My hobbies include reading, exploring nature and trying new foods!

Alysha Butt

Program Coordination
Salaam alaykum! My name is Alysha Butt and I’m in my fourth year of the Honours Health Sciences program at the University of Waterloo. I’ve always had a passion for working with children and supporting families in meaningful ways. I care deeply about creating spaces where everyone feels supported and valued.

Shareefah Athman

Program Coordination
Assalam Alaikum! My name is Shareefah and I am a Bachelor of Social Work Student Studying at Toronto Metropolitan University. My passion lies through advocacy and inclusion with and for the disability community. A huge hobby of mine is exploring the outdoors during any season, nature is my kryptonite!

Justice Perras

Service Navigation
Hi, my name is Justice, and I am currently studying Social Work at Humber Polytechnic. My favourite hobbies are hiking, writing, spending time with friends, and exploring new foods. I’m excited to be joining the Smile team because they foster a culture of innovation and positivity, where meaningful work meets fresh ideas and real impact.

Past Projects

As part of completing a placement at SMILE, students have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects. Here are some highlights of past projects.

Kassidy & Ugshana Reading Kits Project

Ugshana and Kassidy two of SMILE's placement students, help Farhan put together and distribute inclusive reading kits to schools in our community! This CSC Community Heroes project is a step in ensuring classrooms can be an accessible and inclusive space for all children and youth.
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SMILE Families: Mental Health Guide for Caregivers

Walaa and Diyana, SMILE placement students, created a quick guide for caregivers on protecting their mental health. It covers challenges faced by newcomer families with disabilities, coping tips, and how SMILE supports caregiver well-being.
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Talking to Doctors: A guide for SMILE families

This guide allows you to participate in your child’s healthcare by providing essential information on medical discussions, symptoms, history, and mental well-being to ensure comprehensive and informed care.
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Caring for your Mental Health as Caregivers

Explores the emotional impact of caregiving, dispels common myths, and provides practical strategies and culturally relevant resources to support caregivers' mental well-being.
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