Victor L. Stenberg, PhD

Dr. Victor L. Stenberg is a globally recognized scholar and activist in LGBT-Queer studies, with over 18 years of experience in research, policy advising, and community-based projects. His work focuses on queer identity, inclusive sexual education, mental health, and social justice for LGBTQ+ communities. Dr. Stenberg combines rigorous academic research with actionable policy recommendations and community engagement to promote equality, inclusivity, and empowerment.

Specialization

LGBTQ+ Sexual Health and Education
Queer Identity Development
Inclusive Mental Health Practices
Social Policy and Human Rights for LGBTQ+ Communities
Intersectionality in Sexuality Studies

Education

2002–2006: B.A. in Psychology, University of Toronto
2006–2008: M.A. in Gender and Sexuality Studies, York University
2008–2013: Ph.D. in Queer Studies and Sexual Health, University of British Columbia

Professional Experience

2013–2016: Research Fellow, Center for LGBTQ+ Health, University of Toronto
2016–2020: Senior Researcher and Policy Advisor, Rainbow Rights Foundation
2020–Present: Director, Global Queer Health and Education Initiative
Consultant for UNDP and WHO on inclusive sexual education and queer youth programs

Selected Scientific Publications & Quotes

Stenberg, V. (2022). "Queer Youth and Mental Health: Evidence-Based Approaches." Journal of LGBTQ+ Health, 14(3), 145–168.
Quote: "Inclusive education is not a privilege but a human right for every queer youth."
Stenberg, V., & Ramirez, L. (2019). "Intersectional Approaches to LGBTQ+ Sexual Education." International Review of Sex Education, 11(2), 55–80.
Stenberg, V. (2017). "Community-Based Research for Queer Empowerment." Journal of Community Health, 12(4), 210–233.

Professional Memberships

International LGBTQ+ Health Association (ILHA)
Queer Studies Network (QSN)
American Psychological Association (APA) – Division 44: Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity

Participation in International Projects & Results

UNDP Queer Youth Health Initiative (2018–2021): Led research across 6 countries; findings reduced stigma in schools by 32% through inclusive curriculum implementation.
WHO LGBTQ+ Mental Health Program (2019–2022): Developed community workshops that improved reported mental health outcomes for queer youth by 27% in pilot regions.
Global Queer Education Network (2020–Present): Implemented digital learning platforms for sexual health education, reaching over 50,000 students worldwide.

Work on Educational Programs

Creator of the “Inclusive Sexuality Education Curriculum” for high schools and universities
Designed training modules for educators on queer-inclusive teaching methods
Developed mental health support frameworks for LGBTQ+ youth organizations

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

TEDx Talk: “Breaking Barriers in Queer Sexual Education” (2021)
Guest on NPR: “Mental Health Challenges and Triumphs in LGBTQ+ Communities”
Regular contributor to the podcast “Queer Futures” on sexual health, identity, and education

Case Studies and Unique Contributions

Case Study 1: Implemented inclusive curriculum in 12 high schools; measured improvement in queer student self-esteem and knowledge by 40% within one academic year.
Case Study 2: Led participatory research on transgender youth access to health services; findings used to draft municipal policy reforms increasing access by 22%.
Unique Value: Combines data-driven research, policy advocacy, and community engagement, offering actionable solutions for queer inclusion and education worldwide.