About
As a creative research methods specialist with a PhD in Planning from the University of Toronto, I explore the application of anti-oppressive practice to the material work of research, in support of decolonization, equity and sustainability. My work has inquired into the international development project from many angles, ranging from the learning practices of international development grantmakers to the role of psychological empowerment in the innovative behaviour of subsistence farmers in Central America. Most recently, I have been using art to explore the identity work and meaning making experiences of marginalized urban youth in Havana, Cuba, and exploring how art can change the way different knowledges are activated through policy and governance practice.
I currently hold a SSRHC Postdoctoral Fellowship in the department of Geography at Newcastle University,
working with Prof. Rachel Pain.
Generally, may work focuses on making visible and undoing systems that restrict the production of knowledge by communities that face oppression through participant-led research, by offering opportunities for reflection, collective sensemaking and social learning.
I held Research Award positions at the International Development Research Centre in 2012 (Innovation for Inclusive Development) and 2014 (Policy, Strategy and Evaluation) and have served as the Learning and Evaluation Specialist for the Urban Climate Resilience in Southeast Asia Partnership since 2014. I am a fellow of the University of Toronto's School of Cities and Caribbean Studies Program. I co-chaired of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion working group of the Canadian Evaluation Society from 2018-21 and served as the Green Party of Canada candidate for Niagara West in the 44th federal election in 2021.
Education.
PhD in Planning 2022
University of Toronto: Dept. of Geography and Planning
“Young People in Old Havana: Challenges Facing Youth During the Economic and Social Restructuring of Post-Socialist Cuba”
MSc International Rural Planning and Development 2011
Guelph University: School of Environmental Design and Rural Development
Thesis: “Extreme Weather, Climate Change and the Livelihoods of Hillside Households in the Jesus de Otoro Valley, Honduras”
Honours Bachelor of Arts with High Distinction 2008
University of Toronto: Ibero-American Studies, Political Science and Spanish
Academic Year Abroad.
Universidad de Santiago de Compostela: Political Science and Public Administration 2006