Erika Reis, BA (Psychology, Development Studies), is a Sexuality & Reproductive Health Facilitator at the Sexuality Education Resource Centre (SERC).
She has been delivering sexual health and reproduction workshops to Manitobans of all ages, walks of life, and cultural backgrounds for nearly 10 years.
“I have always been passionate about empowering people to make choices for themselves and to live without shame or prejudice,” says Erika. “This work allows me to advocate for justice for women, queer folks, teens and pre-teens and those struggling with mental health or substance use; in other words, folks who have been marginalized.”
People have been shamed, abused, and silenced due to their sexuality and gender.
Accessible education empowers people to advocate for themselves, create safer communities, and live a more fulfilling life.
The SERC workshops, which cover a variety of topics related to sexual and reproductive health, can help normalize sexuality and debunk myths or misinformation that have potential to cause harm.
Facilitators share information that can prevent unplanned pregnancies, decrease the risk of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs), contribute to higher levels of self-esteem, aid in building community and allyship, and help people to achieve healthier relationships with themselves and others.
“Sexuality is tied to both our physical and mental health and well-being. The more we know about our bodies, risks, behaviours, treatment, accessibility, etc., the more we’re able to advocate for ourselves and stay healthy.”
In her sessions (up to five per day!), Erika has seen people open up, feel more comfortable with themselves and/or others, and build confidence through supporting others.
“People have been shamed, abused, and silenced due to their sexuality and gender. Accessible education about our rights, our bodies, and our safety empowers people to advocate for themselves and others, creating safer communities and a healthier and more fulfilling life.”
Advocacy is a key part of Erika’s role, and the impacts of her work are far-reaching, including:
- Destigmatizing sexuality, sexual activity, gender expression and gender stereotypes.
- Providing resources, such as teen clinics, mental health professionals, and STBBI testing sites.
- Fostering community support, particularly through conversations about dating violence, sexual violence, or struggles with mental health or substance use.
- Empowering people to make decisions about their bodies and teaching them how to advocate for themselves in both health-care settings, and sexual and romantic relationships.
When she isn’t busy at work, Erika is a self-proclaimed ‘Hobby Collector’ and spreads her time across a wide range of activities:
- Dance (ballet, contemporary, lyrical)
- Aerial arts (hoop and sling)
- Boxing
- Analog (film) photography
- Art (painting, drawing, collages)
- Crocheting
- Roller skating
- Reading (40 books last year!)
- Watching/analyzing films
- Spending time outdoors