Researchers and students participating in the Smart CREATE Project, led by the Director of MOVE, Professor Gunho Sohn, visited Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN), Manitoba, from August 10 to 14 to engage with community members and explore how emerging micro-mobility technologies could support local food distribution. The visit complemented the SMART Farm for Health initiative, led by Professor Miyoung Suh of the University of Manitoba, which focuses on producing healthy foods through local agriculture.
During community outreach activities at OCN and the Otineka Mall, the York University team demonstrated a robotic platform and discussed potential transportation solutions that could help move fresh vegetables from production sites to community members. The visit served as an opportunity to learn from residents, assess local needs, and explore which technologies may be feasible and beneficial in a northern community setting.
Mohammadjavad Ghorbanalivakili, a PhD student working with Professor Sohn, participated in the technology demonstrations and community engagement activities. The Smart CREATE Team looks forward to continuing its collaboration with OCN to better understand the community’s mobility needs and explore practical micro-mobility solutions.
To read more about the Smart CREATE, click here.