David Walji
David Walji is entering his second year of medical school at the University of Toronto. Passionate about community health and social equity, he is committed to supporting grassroots initiatives that address local needs and empower underserved populations. With experience in advocacy, outreach, and project coordination, he strives to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that drive positive change. With TSWL, David has become a catalyst for positive change in working towards alleviating loneliness for seniors in long-term care homes and forming community connections. As both a future physician and engaged volunteer, David values collaboration and is proud to be part of an organization that is compassionate and community-oriented. David completed his Bachelor of Health Sciences at Queen’s University.
TSWL - Inclusivity Program
TSWL (To Seniors With Love) is a youth-led greeting card initiative supporting seniors in long-term care homes to reduce loneliness and isolation. By having youth volunteers create heartfelt messaging and artwork for various cultural holidays throughout the year, seniors can feel connected with their communities. As part of TSWL’s mission to promote inclusivity, TSWL has created a program to support seniors from marginalized communities - including Indigenous seniors and seniors with dementia, who are equally deserving of messages of warmth and hope.
About this Project
Communities Served
My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.
How the project works
Youth volunteers create cards and artwork for various holidays and cultural celebrations throughout the year for TSWL’s network of long-term care homes. With a focus on culturally inclusive cards that incorporate Indigenous celebrations and beliefs, TSWL will provide information and resources to volunteers about messaging and artwork related to the winter solstice.
Project Impact
In receiving heartfelt messages of warmth and hope, seniors of all ethnicities and backgrounds can feel included, accepted and connected with their communities and cultures. By incorporating cards for Indigenous seniors and seniors with dementia, these two groups of seniors - who have been historically overlooked and marginalized - can gain a sense of belonging and feel appreciated and cherished.
Project Mission
TSWL aims to create a more inclusive holiday season where seniors in long-term care homes feel culturally connected and accepted by their communities, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. We hope to promote inclusivity of all marginalized groups, including Indigenous seniors and seniors with dementia, to ensure seniors of all faiths are able to experience a moment of warmth and joy by being included in holiday celebrations.
Project Team
The TSWL team is composed of driven, energetic and resourceful youth leaders.
Donate to Sprout to support fellows
Support young social innovators by donating to the Sprout Ideas Fund, providing capacity-building and resources needed to launch projects that create positive social change.
Donate Now