Dr. Ayelet Kuper
Dr. Kuper is an influential medical professional, educator, and advocate, with a profound commitment to addressing antisemitism in healthcare. As an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto and an Internist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, she seamlessly blends medical expertise with a deep understanding of the social aspects of health and wellness.
Her personal history as a child and grandchild of Holocaust survivors profoundly influences her approach to the intersections of health, wellness, and community trauma. This perspective is further enriched by her academic pursuit in Holocaust literature at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, granting her a deep comprehension of the lasting effects of communal trauma.
Dr. Kuper’s tenure as the Temerty Faculty of Medicine’s Senior Advisor on Antisemitism from June 2021 to June 2022 highlights her dedication to identifying and combatting antisemitism within the healthcare system. This commitment extends beyond her academic research, where she has published over 100 peer-reviewed papers, to her active role in fostering understanding and support within the broader community.
A key facet of her leadership and advocacy in this field is her role as the founding chairperson of the Jewish Medical Association of Ontario. Through this position, Dr. Kuper has been instrumental in creating a platform for dialogue and action on issues concerning Jewish healthcare professionals and patients, further solidifying her role as a bridge between medical practice and community needs.
Her work as a Scientist and Associate Director at the Wilson Centre for Research in Education, along with her cross-appointments at the University of Toronto, reflects her multidisciplinary approach to health, education, and social justice.
Renowned for her engaging and insightful speaking style, Dr. Kuper adeptly communicates complex issues in a manner that is both relatable and actionable. Her unique blend of medical acumen, cultural understanding, and historical knowledge provides invaluable insights into the challenges facing health and wellness today, especially regarding antisemitism and community resilience.