Meet Dr. Pedro Almeida, our newest faculty member with the UBC Master of Occupational Therapy – North (MOT-N) cohort program! Hailing originally from Brazil, Pedro was drawn to northern B.C.’s strong community spirit and the opportunity to contribute to health care needs in the region.

“I was deeply impressed by the community's involvement in the establishment of UNBC and the MOT-N program,” says Pedro. “As an occupational therapist, I’ve always wanted my clinical and research activities to contribute meaningfully to a community. The opportunity to collaborate with students, clinicians, and community members to help develop impactful projects was a key factor that attracted me to this role.”

Pedro’s passion for occupational therapy stems from his own experiences growing up in Brazil.

“I’ve always enjoyed solving everyday problems. Part of that might come from my own experience as a ‘clumsy’ kid. I had to figure out how to do things that seemed obvious to others, like tying my shoes or holding a pencil for handwriting, and early on I realized there were multiple ways to accomplish tasks. This mindset came in handy when I volunteered during high school at a clinic for children with severe physical disabilities. Watching an OT work collaboratively with clients to find the best way for them to participate in daily tasks was eye-opening. Twenty years later, here I am.”

Reflecting on his new role, Pedro is particularly inspired by his students. “I admire their curiosity and eagerness to help. Occupational therapists have the unique privilege of supporting people in doing what they need, want, or love to do. Having students passionate about learning these skills is incredibly rewarding.”

Pedro earned a PhD in Health Sciences from the University of Brasília (Brazil) in 2016 and completed postdoctoral training at Western University in 2020. He is a certified hand therapist with extensive experience working with rheumatic diseases and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, and has previously taught at the University of Brasília and Boston University. His research focuses on how musculoskeletal conditions affect occupational performance, using innovative techniques like surface electromyography and motion capture systems.

After relocating to Prince George with his family last summer, Pedro is embracing life in northern B.C.

“Exploring the city has been wonderful. I haven’t had the chance to travel extensively yet, but I did visit the Stellat’en First Nation’s 10th Annual Salmon Festival with the students during their orientation week, which was an amazing experience. Northern B.C. is a remarkable region with so much to explore, and I’m eager to learn more about it. While I couldn’t attend this year, I’m looking forward to seeing Fort St. James' famous chicken races next summer! 

A partnership between UBC and UNBC, the UBC Master of Occupational Therapy – North cohort launched in the fall of 2022 at UNBC's Prince George campus to help inspire more graduates to practice in northern and rural B.C. communities and to improve culturally safe care, accessibility and community inclusion.