Online Presence Research Articles

Factors that influence students to turn on their cameras in synchronous classes

The purpose of the present study was to explore how students use webcams in a synchronous virtual learning environment. This study focuses on self-presentation and the multiple factors influencing students' decisions about turning their cameras either on or off while engaging in online classes. A survey was conducted in order to gather information regarding students' use of webcams and their self-presentation strategies. This approach enables the collection of quantitative information about students' use and preferences of webcams in online learning environments. The results indicated that only 6% of students regularly turned on their cameras during virtual classes. This very low percentage indicates either a strong disinclination or a failure of capability to engage in visual aspects of learning. Some factors have been identified as affecting students' decisions to use webcams. Many students say that their learning space at home is not conducive to using webcams. Only 7% of the students have a specific online learning space, and that might be the reason why they are reluctant to turn on their cameras. An astonishing 85% of these students admitted to sometimes or always wearing casual clothes, like pajamas or sweatpants, while attending classes online—a habit that could have impacts on self-presentation and camera readiness. Generally, the research demonstrates that students find the management of their online presence difficult. It may be due to ignorance of its effect or technical limitations, besides an assumption that self-presentation is inappropriate in the setting of an online classroom.

Exploring value co-creation strategies to improve e-reputation in the hotel industry: insights from Fez, Morocco

In the context of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the co-creation of value with customers has gained importance in both academic and business realms, particularly within the hospitality sector. This study aims to analyze the integration of value co-creation strategies to enhance the online reputation of hotels, with a focus on active customer involvement. Using a qualitative research strategy, the study involved semi-structured, in-person interviews with twenty hotel managers from various hotels in Fez, Morocco. Thematic analysis of the interview data, conducted using NVivo 14 software, highlighted the critical role of value co-creation, customer experience, and e-reputation in enhancing hotels’ online reputation. Key sub-themes identified under value co-creation include active collaboration, innovation based on customer needs, and taking into account online comments. Regular online surveys were also significant for gathering customer proposals. In terms of customer experience, themes such as engagement, satisfaction, and perception were prominent. E-reputation management emerged as crucial, with sub-themes including real-time monitoring and response, integrating feedback into improvement processes, adopting advanced tools, and adapting online reputation strategies based on continuous feedback. The results underscore the interconnectedness of customer engagement, experience, and e-reputation. Integrating strategies that consider online comments and adopt advanced tools significantly improves the online reputation of hotels. Conclusions advocate for a cohesive approach prioritizing customer experience and continuous improvement, through innovative technologies and strategic adjustments to meet evolving customer needs, fostering a positive and enduring hotel online presence.

Examining the Persisting and Desisting Online Posting Behaviors of Violent and Non-Violent Right-Wing Extremists

ABSTRACT There is an ongoing need for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to identify and examine the online posting behaviors of violent extremists prior to their engagement in violence offline, but little is empirically known about their online presence generally or differences in their posting behaviors compared to their non-violent counterparts particularly. Even less is empirically known about their persisting and desisting posting patterns. This study drew from a unique sample of violent and non-violent right-wing extremists to examine online changes in posting patterns during the beginning, middle, and end of their observed posting activity. Here, we identified persister and desister posters to create four sample groups: non-violent persisters, non-violent desisters, violent persisters, and violent desisters. We then calculated the average number of posts for each sample group as well as quantified the existence of extremist ideologies and violent extremist mobilization efforts across each observed posting period. Overall, we identified several noteworthy posting patterns that may assist law enforcement and intelligence agencies in identifying credible threats online. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of the analysis, its limitations, and avenues for future research.

Virtual exchange among pre-service teachers of English as foreign language: Literature recommendations for practice

Use of technologies and online presence is now almost inevitable in language learning. The practice of virtual exchanges (VEs) has been receiving a lot of attention among educators at all levels over the past years. This research paper sheds light on 13 VEs carried out in pre-service teacher education in the last six years and proposes its own VE design based on recommendations from the literature with the future perspective of designing a specific VE for the research. The aim of the systematic review was at first to determine the exchange and interaction set-ups and the potential gains in the terms of pre-service teachers’ skills development. Afterwards, we identified areas for improvement and proposed our design of a VE between pre-service teachers of English in Slovakia and Turkey. Some of the expected contributions of the proposed VE design are development of a linguistic and intercultural communicative competence, digital literacy, and other competences relevant for development of VEs.

Strategic Approaches to Managing and Rebuilding Organisational Reputation: Insights and Case Studies of South East Nigeria

Enterprises in Eastern Nigeria had substantial difficulties in effectively handling and restoring their reputation, especially in the aftermath of events that undermined public trust. Efficient reputation management requires the use of both immediate and long-term tactics to minimise harm and facilitate restoration. Timely reactions were to be cleared and understood, immediately tackling the issue and involving relevant parties, as shown by KFC’s use of wit and honesty in its marketing to maintain consumer loyalty during a supply chain difficulty. Established regular and reliable communication, actively involving the community, and closely monitoring one’s online presence were essential long-term approaches to regain trust. Having an internal culture that mirrors the intended outward image was crucial. This was shown by Starbucks’ decision to shut down more than 8,000 stores for bias training after a racial profiling incident. Additionally, Online Reputation Management services provide essential knowledge and skills in handling crises, monitoring reputation, and creating good content, hence improving an organisation’s online presence. To successfully restore one’s image in the challenging economic environment of Eastern Nigeria, it was necessary to combine prompt measures with long-term strategic efforts. These efforts were based on practical illustrations and online reputation management services. keywords: Reputation Management, Eastern Nigeria, Public Trust, Immediate and Long-Term Tactics, Timely Reactions.

Strengthening social presence and connectedness in 100% online courses through CONNECT

Over recent years, higher education has seen a significant shift toward online courses. Factors driving this change include digital technology ubiquity, diverse student populations, workforce demands, and the increasing need for more flexible learning environments (Serrano et al., 2019). However, while online course enrolments are rising faster than on-campus courses, retention rates remain lower (Australian Government, 2021). Evidence suggests that online education can negatively impact students’ sense of connection, leading to feelings of isolation and disempowerment (Roddy et al., 2017). This is also reflected in the Australian University Mental Health framework (Orygen, 2020) which emphasises creating supportive online learning environments that promote student well-being. The Australian Universities Accord (Australian Government, 2024) calls for universities to embrace TEL. However, given that research has shown the need for more professional development (PD) and support for online educators (Ahern and Biedermann, 2022; 2023), innovative, evidence-based strategies are needed for organisations to build capacity in online teaching. Drawing on a comprehensive review of literature, the authors developed CONNECT: a framework to enhance social presence and connectedness in online learning (Ahern et al., 2024). Grounded in research underpinned by Garrison et al.’s (2000) Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework, the principles of Universal Design for Learning (CAST, 2018) and leveraging TEL, this framework offers educators a roadmap for nurturing a sense of community that positively influences student well-being, engagement, and overall success. Key components of the CONNECT framework are: C - Communication is responsive and supportive O - Optimal online presence N - Nurture educational and professional growth N - Networking opportunities fostered E - Engaging communities of learning C - Contemporary and authentic content T - Timely and effective feedback for learning (Ahern et al., 2024). The study follows a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of CONNECT in guiding teaching staff to use evidence-based strategies to promote belonging and connectedness in online education. In phase one, CONNECT was implemented within a 100% online postgraduate (PG) subject. This presentation will showcase online teaching strategies used to apply all elements of CONNECT as implemented in phase one. Phase two, also showcased, involved creating and releasing an online short course as professional development for teaching staff across two PG online courses at the authors’ university: Master of Nursing (MN) and Graduate Certificate of Diabetes Education (GCDE). After these implementation phases, the third phase will measure the effectiveness of CONNECT across the two PG courses. Data will be collected via (i) a student survey and (ii) a staff survey. Data analysis will compare the experimental group (participants enrolled or teaching in MN or GCDE) against the control group (participants not enrolled or teaching in MN or GCDE). Data will be collected from students and teachers across Australian universities offering 100% online courses. We hypothesise that by implementing CONNECT, the study will (1) Show improved student satisfaction in the experimental group and (2) Add to the body of evidence to inform and support teaching staff to develop strategies that can help build connectedness and social presence in online learning.

Time Efficient & Cost Effective Online teaching tool with iConcepts in Orthodontics for DDS students @ UoM

Background Traditional teaching methods in Orthodontics include plaster models and photos which have been used for decades, however due to the nature of being static still images its difficult for 3-Dimensional (3D) changes in Orthodontics teaching, which has posed immense challenges as the learner is unable to clear concepts on the different planes that affect the final tooth positions not to mention the protracted treatment time ranges from 12 months (simple cases) to 36 months (complex cases). In 2024 with variety of platforms such as videos, 3D animations, interactive changes in face and teeth can be added to teaching tools for Orthodontics. Furthermore, orthodontic movements can pose difficulty in understanding the changes particularly in growing children adding to the 4th dimension. At UQ (Naser-ud-Din, 2015) and internationally (Bridges, 2015) provided experience with creating online teaching modules highlighting its strengths of flexibility, ease of access on demand and global presence. UQ developed SBLi -Scenario Based Learning interactive for Postgraduate Orthodontic students who found it highly engaging, with self-reflective and self-assessment elements useful. (Khoo et al., 2023; Naser-ud-Din, 2016). Generally simulations can be expensive to create (Kröger et al., 2017) and it’s essential to explore cost effective simulation teaching tools with industry partners for authentic learning experience. Aims There is a gap in the dental education sector, particularly with emerging CADCAM (Computer Assisted Design and Computer Assisted Manufacture), which can be used to enhance the learning of core concepts in biomechanics with the aid of 3D simulated online learning. This is reflected particularly for the university students in undergraduate courses who need to feel confident and clinically ready on graduation as Dentists. Thus, greater expectations to be aligned with current technological processes in dentistry. Over the past 5 years, in particular, there has been exponential improvements by the industry providing 3D simulations for treatment planning and patient communication, commonly referred to as the GPS for smile transformations. The aim of this presentation is to highlight the time efficiency and cost effectiveness of the learning tool in sync with contemporary demands in Orthodontics to provide authentic learning platform that prepares the clinician for real patients. Material & Methods Currently the CAD CAM technology provide 3D simulations as open access to general public and doctors portal which can be utilized for teaching core concepts related to biomechanics foundations for student learning, engagement and self-assessment. This project envisages to create a novel forum encompassing education revolution as massive changes in delivery will occur with speed and efficiency internationally with onlinelearning demands. Hence, robust online presence with an interactive textbook such as iConcepts in Orthodontics under the banner of UoM to assist students in Doctor of Dental Surgery at MDS shall pave the way to learning needs for the future. Results The purpose of iConcepts a digital interactive online textbook is to create lifelong learning opportunities in safe space for visual, auditory and kinesthetic with quizzes for interactive learning of concepts without pressure in class learning and feeling judged by peers. Interactive 3D Orthodontic learning directly translates into clinical applications for various orthodontic cases. In the past decade CAD CAM has become clinically relevant particularly with Clear Aligner Therapy adding to higher precision and patient satisfaction. Moreover, it is imperative to have Long Term Retention (LTR) (Irvine, 2020) of learning new tasks. It is essential that students in dentistry are aware of the digital workflows and have clinical preparedness on graduation as it’s the future and certainly here to stay. Both qualitative and quantitative data on student experience shall be collected and analysed to seek out the best practices and processes for instruction of delivery in Orthodontics for DDS cohort in particular and lifelong learning for all ages in general encompassing time efficiency and cost effectiveness. Conclusion The current iConcepts is developed by the author with Apple Education and prototype is being assessed with MSc Data Science cohort at UoM. Furthermore, it is refined by Master of Science Software Engineering students at UoM. Future Recommendations Novel teaching tools shall be marketed to developing universities internationally assisting the dissemination of information a flagship for UoM and revenue generation for department of Education at UoM. In future there will be more and more demand towards interactive concepts clarification (Poblete et al., 2020) and self-assessments hence iConcepts provides that ideal platform. Such technologies will become more prevalent in the future particularly with AI and translated into different languages/ sectors of education. Various faculties that showcase start to finish particularly lengthy/complex outcomes can benefit with timelapse videos and 3D CADCAM for clarity and comprehension for the entire process such as patient journey throughout treatment in Orthodontics.

O IMPACTO DA IMPLEMENTAÇÃO DO MARKETING DIGITAL NO DESEMPENHO DE PEQUENAS EMPRESAS

This paper explores the strategic impact of digital marketing on small businesses, emphasizing the relevance of tools such as SEO (Search Engine Optimization), content marketing, and social media for strengthening online presence and competitiveness in the market. With the advancement of digitalization, these businesses have found digital marketing to be an accessible way to enhance their visibility, reach new audiences, and increase engagement with consumers, often more effectively and economically than traditional methods. The study highlights the importance of SEO for improving positioning in search engines, allowing small businesses to become more visible to their target audience. Additionally, content marketing emerges as a crucial tool for attracting and retaining customers, fostering trust and credibility through relevant and informative materials. The strategic use of social media is another central point, enabling direct and personalized communication with consumers, as well as offering opportunities for partnerships with influencers. These platforms allow companies to interact more authentically and engage their audiences in real-time, strengthening customer relationships and promoting loyalty. Thus, digital marketing, with its various facets, presents itself as a fundamental element for the growth and success of small businesses in today’s digital economy.

Self-Presentation of Teachers in Social Networks

This study was undertaken to investigate the use and motivations behind teachers' engagement in social networks, while exploring their self-presentations and attitudes within these digital communities. The aim was to shed light on the relationship between real-life and digital communities by focusing on teachers as a specific demographic group. To address the research questions, namely the demographic characteristics of teachers using social networks, the reasons behind teachers' usage of social networks, the role of these platforms in shaping teachers' self-perception and professional identity, a mixed-method approach was employed. The findings of the study indicate that social networks provide an ideal platform for individuals to present themselves, and teachers exhibit distinct patterns of behavior compared to other groups. Teachers express themselves more openly and assertively when their identities are anonymous. They actively seek attention to expand their social network, yet refrain from making political posts to avoid jeopardizing their online presence. They strive to portray an idealized image of themselves and make efforts to distinguish themselves from others. Based on the study's conclusions, it is recommended to develop a digital platform that caters to the interests, needs, and inclinations of teachers.

Untangling the Web: The Impact of Social Media Miscommunication on Workplace Dynamics

Social media miscommunication refers to situations where messages, information, or intentions are not conveyed or understood as intended due to the nature of online communication platforms. This can happen for several reasons. Social media miscommunication can have several consequences in the workplace, potentially affecting individuals and the overall work environment. Tackling social media miscommunication requires a combination of awareness, effective communication strategies, and a commitment to maintaining a positive and respectful online presence. Last and most importantly, we need to keep in our mind that social media is a public forum, and our interactions can have a lasting impact. By approaching online communication with thoughtfulness and respect, we can help minimize the potential for miscommunication and maintain positive relationships in our digital ecosystem.

How the online presence of mothers changed over time during the COVID pandemic: A longitudinal study

During the COVID-19 pandemic, curfew restrictions increased the additional burden on mothers, some of which was eased by online platforms. Our study aimed to explore Hungarian mothers' online experiences during the pandemic and was informed by the self-determination theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 mothers during two different waves of the pandemic. The interviewees considered online communication as essential to their daily lives, yet often lacked time. At the onset of the pandemic, there was a surge in news consumption, which became overly stressful over time. Online education also fell to mothers, which was just as stressful as the home office. However, the transition to online platforms accelerated by the COVID pandemic also granted mothers broader access beyond traditional constraints of childcare duties that confined them in time and space to their homes, empowering them with newfound flexibility and opportunity, helping mothers navigate relatedness, competence, and autonomy.

Fabulous but Forgotten Fucoid Forests.

Fucoid forests are areas dominated by marine brown seaweed in the taxonomic order Fucales that, like the better-known marine foundation species-corals, kelps, seagrasses, salt marshes, and mangroves-are threatened by anthropogenic stressors. Fucoid forests are fabulous and important because they, like the better-known marine foundation species (i) span large areas, bioregions, and ecosystems, (ii) provide ecological functions such as high productivity, biodiversity, and habitat for iconic and endemic species, and (iii) support a variety of ecosystem services, like commercial fisheries, regulation of nutrients and carbon, and cultural values. Fucoid forests are, based on a new citation analysis, forgotten worldwide, because they are described orders of magnitude less than the better-known marine foundation species, in ecology and marine biology textbooks, in Google Scholar and Scopus databases over scientific literature, and in recent reports and reviews about seaweed forests. Fucoid forests would be less forgotten if more people acknowledge their biological importance and societal value more often and equate their importance to that of the better-known marine foundation species. To decrease the knowledge gap between fucoids and the better-known foundation species, researchers and science communicators could join forces under a broad "fucoid umbrella," establish stronger online presences, coordinate and collaborate on publications, and produce free eye-catching non-technical materials for teachers, managers, politicians, grass-root organizations, philanthropists, and funding agencies.

Well Presence, Well Performance: The Effect of Online Presence on Indonesian Remote Employees’ Performance through Workplace Well-Being

Well Presence, Well Performance: The Effect of Online Presence on Indonesian Remote Employees’ Performance through Workplace Well-Being

Belongingness:The Keystone of Student Development in Evolving Educational Environments

Based on the literature review and analysis of survey responses from Babson College students’ changing sense of belongingness before, after, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study investigates the influence of belongingness on students in educational environments. The findings reveal that, despite the barriers posed by remote learning, there are effective approaches to mitigate these impacts, such as shorter lectures, facilitated discussions, and maintaining a strong online presence. Moreover, the personal narratives from students during this unprecedented time offer perspectives on the varying degrees of belongingness experienced across different educational stages and modalities. This research underscores the nature of belongingness and its critical role in fostering an inclusive, supportive academic environment, highlighting the need for innovative teaching strategies to preserve student engagement and belonging. In the end, this paper calls for further research into pedagogical practices that can enhance a sense of belonging in both physical and virtual classrooms, which is always evolving.

The Evolution of Real Estate: Digital Marketing's Influence

Digital marketing has become an essential trend for real estate firms in India, driven by improved network infrastructure and the widespread use of smart phones. This research examines the various digital marketing strategies employed by real estate companies and evaluates their effectiveness. With potential clients increasingly conducting their own research online, digital marketing has become a vital component of overall marketing efforts. Enhancing brand image and facilitating efficient customer communication are imperative for real estate organizations, and this requires fortifying their online presence on search engines, corporate websites, and social media platforms. Digital marketing, particularly through social media platforms, has a significant influence on the real estate industry, just like it does on many other sectors. In today's real estate marketing, websites, Face book, Integra, and YouTube have become indispensable resources. There is little study that focuses especially on social media management within India's real estate business, despite the fact that economic growth and population increase are the driving forces behind Indonesia's real estate market. Major segments in the real estate market include land, residential, commercial, and industrial properties, as well as real estate investment trusts, undeveloped land, and vacation homes. In the fiercely competitive real estate landscape, agents must do more than merely acquire a license—they need to embrace the digital innovations reshaping property transactions. Integrating digital marketing fully into real estate services is imperative. To meet the increasing demand for sustainability, real estate firms must develop digital expertise and skills to deliver impactful and efficient digital marketing solutions.

Digital Disruption in Indian Retail: Trends, Opportunities, And Challenges

This research paper examines the significant growth and transformation of the Indian Retail Industry, now ranked as the fifth-largest globally. This expansion is driven by rising incomes, shifting middle-class lifestyles, and improved digital connectivity. In this competitive environment, Indian consumers increasingly demand personalized and exceptional services. Digital transformation is identified as a key success factor, enabling retailers to adapt to changing customer behaviors. The surge in online shopping, propelled by smartphone usage, has reshaped the consumer-retailer dynamic, necessitating robust online presences and investments in data analytics for better customer insights. Transparency in supply chains and real-time inventory management have become essential for effective retail operations. The paper highlights key digital transformation trends, such as digitized in-store experiences and workforce empowerment, while acknowledging challenges like change management, skill shortages, and data security risks. Retailers are advised to implement change management strategies, develop talent acquisition plans, and invest in cybersecurity to ensure sustainable growth.

Impact of inbound marketing on Consoagro junior company of the State University of Londrina

This work addressed the transition of Consoagro Empresa Júnior to Inbound Marketing in 2021, 2022, and 2023, highlighting the growing relevance of agricultural innovation and communication strategies. The adoption of Inbound Marketing was motivated by the need to acquire a strategy that would strengthen Consoagro's brand presence in the digital environment and assist in the passive acquisition of clients. With the general objective of analyzing the impacts of this transition, a quantitative approach was employed, using Consoagro as a case study. The methodology included document analysis and impact assessment over the years using Excel data spreadsheets and statistical analysis using the ANOVA and Tukey test in R software. After analyzing the results, it was possible to identify that the strategy not only strengthened Consoagro's online presence but also contributed to the promotion of digital agriculture. Facing challenges such as increasing market competition and the lack of prospecting, the company turned these difficulties into strategic opportunities, using the production of interesting and relevant content to attract and engage its audience effectively. In summary, this study highlighted the importance of innovation as an essential catalyst for facing contemporary challenges in the agricultural context. By integrating Inbound Marketing as part of a broader strategy of growth and adaptation, Consoagro not only improved its visibility and operational efficiency but also established a successful model for other junior companies in the agricultural sector seeking to differentiate and thrive in a competitive and dynamic environment.

Beyond influence: unraveling the complex tapestry of digital influencer dynamics in hyperconnected cultures

Purpose This paper aims to the intricate relationship between digital influencers (DIs) and their followers, aiming to develop a comprehensive framework that explains how influence works in the digital world. It focuses on understanding the cultural aspects that shape these relationships in today’s global and digital marketplace. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a holistic methodology, intertwining historical, cultural and theoretical insights to decode the DI phenomenon. Applying a Grounded Theory approach, this paper coded articles into categories, developed abstract concepts and refined them through cycles of literature collection and analysis that allowed identifing gaps in the Influencer Marketing field. This comprehensive review and inductive analysis of globalization, mediated communication and digital interactions aim to unravel the intricacies of digital and virtual influence. This paper’s theoretical development advances propositions that dissect the facets influencing digital adoption, usage, interest and value perception, leading to a detailed model of digital influence grounded in both theory and real-world examples. Findings This research uncovers the significant impact DIs have, driven by global connections and the way we communicate in the digital age. Historical context situates DIs within the broader narrative of mediated persuasive communication. A preliminary typology of DIs and influence contexts forms the foundation for further exploration. Research limitations/implications This study enhances the discussion around DIs by considering the influence of technology and culture together. It draws from the thoughts of leading thinkers on how technology connects us, providing a strong foundation for future studies. Practical implications As digital influence and the surrounding technology continue to change, it’s important to think critically about these trends. This research offers valuable insights for businesses looking to navigate the digital landscape effectively, helping them make better strategic decisions about their online presence. Originality/value This study breaks new ground by offering a detailed categorization of DIs and proposing a fresh way to understand their role. It links important ideas from the past about persuasion through media to the current state of digital influence, offering insights into how digital trends might affect communication strategies.

Girlcore: the Right Way to be Female? Examining the Effect of Choice Feminism on What it Means to be a 'Woman' through the Language and Trends of Tiktok

Since the beginning of the 2010s and the advent of what many call the fourth wave of feminism, “choice feminism” has accounted for an increasingly large segment of people who call themselves “feminists”. This movement can widely be observed through commentary on femininity on social media such as TikTok and women choose to use the platform. Since the rise of TikTok in 2020 many different trends and debates have appeared in relation to what it means to be a “girl” or “woman”, and these instances can be observed and analysed to ask a larger question of what being female and identifying as such means in the modern era and years to come. In a world more and more defined by our online presence and the use of social media, there is a landscape in which there is increasing desire to market oneself. In using micro-labels, micro-labels here referring to the hyper-specific aesthetic or identity related categories that have risen in popularity over the last couple years on social media (Sojit Pejcha, 2023), we transform ourselves from human beings to concepts. This process seems to be specifically taken up by women who exercise their “choice” to objectify themselves in a radical new way; something that I argue is much more comfortable than having to deal with the true acceptance of the human experience and what it means to be a woman.

05 The experience of youth on the waitlist for gender-affirming care in Manitoba

Abstract Background Waitlist times are often two years for youth to be seen for initial assessment for gender-affirming hormone therapy in Manitoba, Canada. It is well known that transgender youth awaiting hormone therapy have high rates of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Accessing care that is affirming and supportive, including primary care and counselling, can also be a challenge. Objectives The purpose of this study was to understand the experiences of youth and their caregivers on the waitlist for the Winnipeg, Manitoba-based Gender Diversity Affirmation and Action for Youth (GDAAY) clinic, the provincial transgender health clinic. Specifically, we were interested in what community based resources youth were accessing, mental health impacts, and suggestions for improvements. Design/Methods Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted. Youth aged 14-17 years on the waitlist for 12-24 months for gender-affirming hormone therapy assessment and their caregivers were recruited. Separate interviews were conducted for youth and their caregivers. All interviews were virtual, recorded, and transcribed prior to thematic analysis. Results Youth (n=8) and caregivers (n=9) described barriers to supported transition. The first theme, “In a Black Hole” describes frustration and disappointment with the lack of regular ongoing communications from GDAAY. It also extends to the mental health challenges faced by youth and caregivers alike. Anxiety and self-harm were consistently described, with caregivers volunteering more information on self-harm and suicidality than youth. Youth described dysphoria and two youth found alternative providers for hormone therapy while on the waitlist. Our second theme, “Structural Transphobia”, describes the attitudinal, technological, physical, and architectural barriers faced by the participants. For example, one caregiver described a hospital admission for suicide attempt during which the hospital bracelet displayed the wrong gender, the wrong name, contributing to frequent mis-gendering. Frustration with the inability to change the name and gender marker in provincial charting systems was similarly of concern. Our final theme, “Manitoba: An Information Desert” describes the systemic barriers faced including lack of knowledgeable providers and reliable information within the province. Youth and caregivers described concerns with identifying primary care and councilors that understood challenges specific to transgender youth. Conclusion Although delays in gender-affirming therapy were noted, youth socially transitioned and accessed existing resources. However, mental health concerns persisted and participants felt frustrated and unsupported during their extensive wait times. Improved experiences may be achieved by additional communication from the clinic, hands-on assistance with accessing relevant resources, and an improved online presence. Potential competing interests Funding was obtained by a resident research small grant from the University of Manitoba. A similar abstract was submitted to CPEG but it focuses on a new intervention of a phone call from social work when a youth is added to the waitlist.