In this episode of Mental Health Trailblazers: Psychiatric Nurses Speak Up! host Indrias Kassaye welcomes Rashida Charles, PhD candidate at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, and doctoral fellow in the Minority Fellowship Program at the American Nurses Association. Rashida shares her journey from a first-generation Haitian-American background to her role as a trailblazing nurse scientist, shedding light on how her community roots and lived experiences shape her passion for health equity, particularly for Black men and marginalized groups.

Rashida opens up about her unique path to psychiatric nursing—a field she chose after witnessing health disparities firsthand as an AmeriCorps health coach. From her early aspirations to become a doctor to finding her calling in nursing, Rashida emphasizes the impact of her Haitian heritage and the struggles she faced as a first-generation college student. She dives deep into her research on the links between mental and physical health, especially how societal issues like racism and systemic inequalities lead to adverse health outcomes in communities of color.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Rashida and Indrias explore the transformative potential of AI in healthcare (and real life pitfalls), along with the ethical considerations that come with it. Rashida highlights the importance of having diverse voices—especially nurses—in policy discussions around AI development to prevent unintended consequences, such as biases in data use and patient care. Together, they envision a future where AI can be harnessed to enhance patient engagement while acknowledging the challenges of safeguarding mental health in the digital age.

Together, Indrias and Rashida explore the critical role of the Minority Fellowship Program in advancing culturally responsive mental health care and discuss the urgent need for diverse perspectives in healthcare policy-making. Rashida's resilience shines as she reflects on the legacy of her family and the importance of representation and community support. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of overcoming barriers, redefining success, and the powerful influence of nurses in shaping the future of mental health care.

Listen now to discover how Rashida’s journey underscores the importance of mental health professionals who not only understand but reflect the communities they serve.

Free CNE Credits available for listening! Don’t miss this chance to earn continuing education credits while learning from influential voices in nursing today. Tune in to this and all episodes of season 4, celebrating “50 Years: Reflect & Project!” and the lasting impact of the SAMHA Minority Fellowship Program at the American Nurses Association.

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Learn more about Rashida Charles at https://emfp.org/mfp-fellows/rashida-charles. Rashida Charles is also Sr. Clinical Instructor, Washington Squared Program, George Washington University & Medstar Washington Hospital Center, and Associate Professor, Advanced Research Methods, The State University of Haiti