Bridge the Gap Fund

The story of Joybridge is grounded in a personal mission to address the lack of representation and inclusion in mental health research and advanced academic roles, particularly for people of color. This initiative emerges from my journey as a woman of color in psychology and neuroscience, where I’ve experienced and witnessed the systemic barriers that limit opportunities for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. In the fields of psychology and neuroscience, people of color remain vastly underrepresented, both as researchers and participants in clinical trials. This lack of diversity perpetuates gaps in understanding how mental health and brain diseases uniquely impact marginalized communities. It also means the voices and lived experiences of these populations are often excluded from critical conversations and solutions in research. Moreover, systemic inequities in access to education and mentorship prevent many promising individuals from pursuing doctoral programs and research roles. These barriers limit innovation and the ability to address health disparities effectively. Joybridge was created to bridge the gap between underrepresented communities and research, advocacy, and education in mental health and brain science. At its core, Joybridge exists to ensure that people of color are not only included but empowered as leaders, researchers, and participants in these spaces. Our vision is to create a future where diversity is celebrated and leveraged as a strength, fueling breakthroughs in understanding mental health and improving the lives of people worldwide. We are committed to: 1. Increasing Representation in Research: Advocate for and design inclusive clinical trials and studies that prioritize the needs and experiences of people of color. 2. Empowering Future Leaders: Provide scholarships, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to underrepresented students pursuing advanced degrees in psychology, neuroscience, and related fields. 3. Addressing Health Disparities: Deliver culturally competent education and resources on mental health and brain health tailored to marginalized communities. 4. Transforming Systems: Advocate for systemic changes in academia and healthcare that prioritize diversity and inclusion.