Reflections from the Past-Chair
Dr. Kara Dempster

It is difficult to fathom that my year serving as Chair of the Member in Training (MIT) section has come to an end. I originally became involved with CPA leadership as a first year resident in psychiatry at Western University. In retrospect, putting my name out there and applying for the Ontario Representative position was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Since that time, I have been involved with the MIT section of the CPA and have sat on this committee throughout the entirety of my residency training. I have also sat on the CPA Board of Directors as a resident representative for the past 2 years. I have developed professionally in leaps and bounds throughout my involvement on the CPA. I have been fortunate to have met and interacted with numerous “big names” in Canadian Psychiatry, many of whom have influenced my career development, and have inspired me to use my voice to influence Canadian mental health care, and advocate for my patients, and resident colleagues.

Early on in our careers, residents may feel like our voice doesn’t matter, and that we cannot make a difference. I would argue that as residents, we have a unique ability to change how mental healthcare will be for the future. We are the future of mental health. Our voices matter greatly. I would encourage all residents to get involved in both the CPA, and in other leadership roles. You will be surprised what doors it will open for you.

It has been an absolute privilege to represent residents across Canada, and I have been fortunate to meet many of you at various events at the Annual Conference. The future of our profession is very bright, and your personal future in psychiatry is limitless. I enthusiastically look forward to working and interacting more with all my resident cohort as we move forward in our professional careers.