Title: Multisite Harmonization of Early Child Development Measures: A Developmental Evaluation of the Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (HeLTI)

When: Monday December 1 at 9:00 EST (14:00 GMT; 16:00 SAST; 19:30 IST; 22:00 CST)

Presenter: Dr. Melissa R. Hunte, Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia

Brief Description: This developmental evaluation examined the process of harmonizing early childhood development (ECD) measures across four international cohorts within the Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (HeLTI)—Canada, China, India, and South Africa. The study aimed to document how harmonization decisions were made, identify enabling and constraining factors, and generate actionable insights for future multi-site research. Data were collected through focus groups and surveys and analyzed thematically using a hybrid deductive–inductive approach. Findings emphasized that the harmonization process was shaped by methodological and scientific integrity, human relationships, diverse expertise, adaptive decision-making, and a shared commitment to balancing local and global priorities. Despite challenges such as differing study timelines, linguistic and contextual diversity, participant burden, and funding constraints; sustained stakeholder partnerships and team collaborations enabled the cohorts to stay responsive to local contexts and needs while upholding global harmonization goals. This study offers insights for future global health and development research efforts that aim to implement international, multi-site harmonization strategies.

Title: TBD

When: Thursday January 15, 2026 (14:00 GMT; 16:00 SAST; 19:30 IST; 22:00 CST)

Presenter: Cindy-Lee Dennis, PhD, Professor at University of Toronto and Colleagues

Brief Description: Influence of paternal precondeption health on perinatal outcomes

Title: Knowledge Translation

When: TBD

Presenter: Dan Sellen, PhD, Professor at University of Toronto and Jenna Hickey, Lead Research Coordinator

Brief Description: On the topic of knowledge translation / mobilization some work one of my teams has been doing with CANWACH on gender transformation of nutrition programs using Global Affairs Canada’s feminist development agenda translated through the “GTFN” framework adopted by Scaling Up Nutrition and a range of NGO’s may be relevant. Methodological highlights include c-creative approaches to MNCHN-program transformative tool design and testing.