HH/GH 4922 3.0 – Social Determinants of Global Health “Health Equity & Community Storytelling”

This interdisciplinary global health field course explores the social determinants of health in the Global South, with a focus on gender inequalities and gender-based violence. Hosted in partnership with Stellenbosch University, this immersive program invites students to critically examine how history, politics, culture, and community shape health outcomes in South Africa.

Through field visits, community engagement, and collaborative projects, students will deepen their understanding of global health challenges and solutions. Guided by local faculty, including Prof. Lynn Hendricks, students will observe grassroots health interventions addressing HIV/AIDS, STIs, and unintended pregnancies, while engaging directly with healthcare providers, community leaders, and activists.

A central feature of the course is a hands-on, cross-cultural project in which students from York and Stellenbosch universities will co-design creative responses to health disparities. Leveraging digital storytelling, students will create short videos that capture transformative moments from their experiences abroad—blending art, reflection, and advocacy.

Back at York, students will use the REEL Health Studio to produce multimedia projects that amplify their learning and promote health equity through digital public health communication.

This course is designed to build essential skills in:

• Global health analysis & interdisciplinary problem-solving
• Cross-cultural dialogue and ethical engagement
• Digital storytelling and multimedia advocacy

• Robben Island – Human rights, apartheid, and the legacy of Nelson Mandela
• Table Mountain Hike – Environmental determinants of health & well-being
• Bishop Lavis Clinic – Community health responses to gender-based violence & HIV
• Khayelitsha Township – Grassroots organizing and youth empowerment
• District Six Museum – Historical displacement and structural inequities

Deadline:

• First-round: December 01st, 2025
• Second-round: January 23rd, 2026

Application Form

Program fee: CAD3000*

Includes:

• 10 nights’ accommodation and full board
• All field trips, excursions, and site visits
• Local ground transportation
• Welcome and farewell receptions

Not Included

• Round-trip airfare to South Africa
• Visa, vaccinations, and health insurance (guard.me®)
• Tuition fee (payable to York University)
• Personal expenses and most meals

*Subject to change, program fees will depend on the final number of participants.

To secure a spot in this course, you'll need to submit a non-refundable deposit of $500 to York International. If selected, you will receive an email with instructions to pay your CAD500 deposit and program fee before the deadline.

A $500 non-refundable deposit per course must be submitted by the deadline listed in the email. These fees are non-refundable once charged and are taken as a commitment that the student will participate in the study abroad course. All courses are capped, and spots are considered based on the course instructor’s decision.
PLEASE NOTE: You do not need to come to York International Office. All payments will be conducted online. We only accept Visa and Mastercard. No cash or cheques.

All participants of this course will receive up to CAD500 York International Mobility Award (YIMA) upon completion of the Pre-Departure Training and Travel Risk Requirements.

 
Date: October 29th, 2025 (Wednesday) 
Time: 1:30pm - 2:30pm (EST) 
Registration link: https://yorku.zoom.us/meeting/register/XLuSDqDTR0usmR9AqD6JmA
 
Date: November 12th, 2025 (Wednesday) 
Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am (EST) 
Registration link: https://yorku.zoom.us/meeting/register/LttAfRZ3Rr29Zi1dtp-Dfw