Ph.D. student Luka Stojanovic '22 (he/they) has been awarded the distinguished Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship, a highly competitive national graduate research honour aimed at addressing Canadian social issues.

Luka, a queer, disabled artist, community organizer, scholar in Trent's Canadian Studies Ph.D. program and graduate associate in the Trent Centre for Aging & Society, is only the second Trent student to receive this award. Their doctoral research, From Silence to Empowerment: Restorying Experiences of Chronic Pain Among Older Adults in Ontario, explores the widespread but often stigmatized experience of chronic pain among older adults.  

With one in three older adults affected by chronic pain, Luka’s community-based, participatory research aims to bring the experiences of older adults to the forefront, encouraging meaningful change and qualitative approaches in healthcare. 

“Luka’s vision brings together aging, disability studies and new arts-based ways to advance how healthcare and policy actors can better understand and support those living with chronic pain,” says Dr. Nadine Changfoot, professor of Political Studies and Luka’s supervisor. “Anyone who works with Luka, be it in research, teaching, or community engagement, learns so much from them through their commitment to reciprocity, keen insight, and especially their work ethic and generosity to share in leadership and knowledge.” 

Originally from Toronto and raised in Ottawa, Luka has built a strong connection with Peterborough/Nogojiwanong, actively volunteering with local organizations such as Artspace Peterborough, Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes, and the ReFrame Film Festival. This community involvement has deepened Luka’s commitment to addressing real-world issues through an academic lens, and this scholarship will provide them with valuable resources to further their groundbreaking research. 

“Receiving this scholarship is an honour and privilege. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with diverse leaders who will help me highlight and advance a more qualitative approach to this discipline,” Luka said. “The scholarship’s emphasis on community engagement and leadership aligns with my aspirations of making meaningful contributions to the larger dialogue here, and in particular, sharing these experiences as a future educator.” 

As one of just 15 scholars chosen from a pool of over 500 applicants, Luka will access more than just financial support with the Trudeau Scholarship. The opportunity also provides access to a network of mentors, alumni, and leaders across Canada, exclusive events and conferences, and travel funding for research activities. 

Luka's achievement not only highlights Trent University’s commitment to fostering socially impactful research but also reflects the leadership and innovation of Trent students on advancing social equity using fresh perspectives. 

Learn more about the School for the Study of Canada at Trent University.