Transforming health in the Black community through youth-led research and innovative simulations
Scottsdale, Arizona. , June 26, 2024 , PRLog — Addressing the historical challenges and inequities in the health of the Black community, a groundbreaking event will be held at the South Mountain Community Center in Phoenix on Saturday, July 13 at 12:30 p.m. Led by Dr. Marcia Uddoh, the initiative aims to empower low-income Black teens to become researchers and advocates for change in their communities.
Dr. Uddoh, a renowned stress researcher and co-editor of the American Institute of Stress, has developed an innovative simulation called “God’s Little World.” Modeled after Venice, Italy, this simulated environment recreates social inequities based on a social ecological model, teaching youth how to navigate and effectively address these challenges. Selected as youth researchers, participants will learn to collect, analyze, and present survey data, giving them the tools to advocate for change based on real-world inequities that impact their lives.
“People often ask the question, ‘What does this have to do with health?’ The answer is, everything.”
Dr. Uddoh’s journey to create this simulation has included extensive academic and professional accomplishments. She holds a PhD in Art Education from Florida State University with a focus on cognition and instructional design, a Master’s degree in Clinical Research Administration, a Master’s degree in Public Health, and an MSW in Social Science Research from Columbia University. Her academic roots at Columbia University and Oberlin College, as well as her research under Dr. Andrew Weil at the University of Arizona, provided a solid foundation for her advocacy work. Dr. Uddoh has also been a visiting scholar at the Southwest Interdisciplinary Research Center at Arizona State University and a clinical faculty member at the University of Houston.
“God’s Little World” has already seen significant success, attracting over 500 participants and being recognized as an official retreat by a prestigious private school in Houston. The simulation was also featured at the North American Simulation and Gaming Association (NASAGA) and received a feature article in the Houston Chronicle. The recreated world includes over twenty functional occupations, ranging from a mayor to an organic farmer, where participants learn through role-playing and research to address social and health inequities.
The event in Phoenix is made possible by generous contributions from the local Southwest Scenic Group, which donated $33,000 in human resources and materials. Dr. Uddoh’s vision includes using AI to enhance simulations to foster a new generation of researchers dedicated to justice and advocacy.
“Our goal is to raise a generation of Black youth from low-income backgrounds who are not only aware of the inequities in their communities, but also equipped with the skills to research and advocate for lasting solutions,” Dr. Uddoh emphasizes.
About Dr. Marcia Uddoh Dr. Marcia Uddoh is a leading stress researcher and social justice advocate. With an impressive academic background, including a PhD from Florida State University, a master’s degree from Columbia University, and extensive research experience, she is committed to using research as a tool for change. Dr. Uddoh’s work has been recognized globally, including her nomination in Who’s Who in America 2023. She continues to inspire through her innovative simulations and dedication to education.
contact information Dr. Marcia Uddoh
Cell: 817-536-2005
Email: godslittleworld@
Website: https://godslittleworld.com/
