Research & Community Team

Dr. Kisha McPherson is a scholar, educator, and community-engaged researcher with over 20 years of experience working with Black youth. Her research examines how Black young people navigate popular culture, digital media, and educational systems using transdisciplinary approaches rooted in cultural studies, Black feminist epistemologies, and participatory research methodologies.

As Co-Director of the Children's Media Lab at Toronto Metropolitan University, Dr. McPherson leads research on youth media engagement, digital culture, and culturally responsive pedagogy. 

Iman is a master’s student at the University of Toronto studying education policy, with an undergraduate degree in marketing and communications. Her research examines how institutional structures and extracurricular programs, particularly in sport, contribute to confidence and identity development among immigrant and marginalized youth. 

Nia is a PhD student in the Media & Design Innovation program at Toronto Metropolitan University. Her research examines how Black women use character-based storytelling and visual art to rethink oppressive narratives and expand ideas of Black womanhood. She has a background in painting, printmaking, and the design of narrative-based play objects.

Ronaye is a dedicated Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) student at Trent University, driven by a deep passion for advocacy, social justice, equity, and enhancing the student experience. With over a decade of experience working in non-profit organizations and community-based initiatives, she brings a deep understanding of grassroots engagement, program coordination, and inclusive practice. 

Chanelle is a doctoral student in the Critical Disability Studies program at York University. Her dissertation explores Blackness, disability and embodiment in an effort to examine the complex implications of sistering disabled siblings, as performed by second generation African-Caribbean women.

Marion (Mary) Tempest Grant (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in the Communications and Culture program at York University in Toronto, Canada. Her research investigates women's and British art history using digital humanities methods. 

Nifemi is a graduate of the Professional Communication program at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is passionate about creative strategy and connecting people through meaningful collaboration. Her experience includes managing student programming, coordinating events, leading projects, and contributing to initiatives focused on equity, representation, and community engagement.