_{Photo of Amanda van Beinum}

What are your main areas of interest and how did you move into this area of social inquiry?

I continue to be interested in using social science approaches to study health, healthcare, and medicine. Having spent several years working and doing research in the intensive care unit, one of my current areas of focus is on the development and use of technologies as part of medical practice. At present, my work focuses on neurotechnologies, electronic devices which interface with the brain either directly or indirectly. These devices are being tested for various clinical and commercial applications ranging from treatment of mental illness to assisting people with paralysis to trans-humanist techno-enhancement. The overarching question driving my research across several different projects is to figure out whether and how neurotechnology can promote human empowerment without contributing to widening inequalities in health and social status.

Another major area of focus which emerges from my work in critical posthuman theory is a project on the use of antibiotics in agriculture. This interdisciplinary project examines biosecurity practices on farms and their impacts on planetary health, as well as potential policy implications of re-imagining antibiotic use in farming through a relational ecology lens. The overarching question driving this research work is both theoretical and practical and centers around understand how critical posthumanism can be used to drive material changes in the applied world of agriculture.

How do you work and get writing done amidst competing responsibilities as an academic who teaches and undertakes service work, as well as scholarship?

I have built a habit of writing every work day for at least 30 minutes. I start my most productive period of the day with writing, which ensures that I make time for this important part of my work with a clear and focused mind. I set and track quarterly goals, which helps me to remain focused on larger projects instead of getting buried in smaller tasks.  I am also adamant about the need for rest. Combined with my family caregiving responsibilities this means that I try not to work on weekends, and I take regular dedicated vacation time to disconnect. I have found that I can do more in 2 hours when I am well rested and have clear goals than with a full day when I am burnt out and lacking direction.

I like to think about big writing projects like making a sculpture, where the shape and the details only come together as part of the process of working with the material. There are so many ways to communicate ideas, and it is very satisfying when the final figure of a project becomes clear. Thinking about writing as shaping a tangible, applied contribution to a better understanding of the world makes it into a very satisfying as well as creative activity.   

What do you like about being a sociologist — and an interdisciplinary scholar?

My favorite thing about being a sociologist and interdisciplinary scholar is that pretty much any topic can be studied. Everything in the world, from farming to medical technologies, interacts with social relations in a multitude of ways. Some of these have been well studied in the social science world and new things can be understood by bringing them into conversation with ongoing work in science and medicine. Sometimes issues are just emerging in the science and medicine world and haven’t yet been discussed in the social sciences – again, bringing these two fields into contact can reveal a whole new area of questions and social implications. My work has taken me into laboratories, board rooms, grazing fields, medical clinics, conference halls, hospital wards, milking parlours, and of course many classrooms. I love having a job that allows me to continue to learn about the world so broadly, to work with many different types of people, and to share interdisciplinary insights with others.

What advice would you give to early career academics/PhD students?

My advice would be to focus on skills development. Skills like developing a research project, collecting and analyzing data, writing, presenting results, working with others, and teaching are valuable across different sectors and will allow you to pivot to different opportunities that arise. The specific sociological skills of being able understand and analyze the world through social relations, characteristics, and distributions of power will be useful in many different places. Finding work in academia requires flexibility – you may end up working in a department or academic-adjacent position which requires your skills more so than your content expertise. This flexibility not only opens doors to diverse career paths but also allows you to find meaningful and rewarding work that draws on the core strengths of sociological inquiry—making a real impact by understanding and engaging with the complexities of society.

The post This Much I Know with Professor Amanda van Beinum appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

_{Faculty and students from MATS program.}

Courses in the MATS combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. On the translation practice side, the program offers courses such as Literary Translation, Audiovisual Translation and Subtitling, Translation and Tourism, and Medical Translation. The more theoretical courses include Translation Studies and Research Methods; others focus on topics such as Experiences of Translation in the Americas, Balzac Translated-Translating Balzac, Politics and Translation, Ideology and Translation, Translation and Ethics, Translation and Mobility, and Translation and Digital Technologies, to name but a few.

The Master in Translation Studies can be completed in two years and offers three options: courses only, courses plus a Major Research Paper, or courses plus a thesis. The program is designed to serve full-time students as well as professionals who wish to obtain a graduate degree in Translation Studies while continuing to work. As such, all courses are scheduled in the evening, and some are offered online.

The MATS is a funded program. Once admitted, most eligible full-time domestic students receive a guaranteed funding package for the duration of the program. Note: No funding is available for international students.

For more information on the program structure and admission requirements, visit yorku.ca/gradstudies/mats/. Discover why translation matters!

The application deadline for the 2026–2027 academic year is February 15, 2026.

The post Discover Why Translation Matters! appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

91��ɫ’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program celebrates exceptional young leaders who are using their talents, education, and passion to make meaningful change. Among this year’s recipients, 12 individuals are from the Faculty of Graduate Studies, and each one is a powerful example of how our alumni are already shaping a better, more inclusive and sustainable future.

Purpose-Driven Visionaries: 12 Graduate Studies’ Alumni Making Change

Jocelyn Cadieux (MES ’20) is building healthier cities, one policy at a time. As Chair of the MES Planning Alumni Committee (MYPAC) and a dedicated policy planner, Cadieux champions walkable, transit-friendly communities. His long-range planning work makes cities not only more sustainable but also more livable—helping current and future generations thrive.

Lauren Castelino (MES ’24) is leading the charge toward environmental justice. As founder of the Green Career Centre, a non-profit that supports underrepresented youth entering green industries, Castelino is opening doors for the next generation of environmental leaders, empowering them to shape the policies and projects that will define a greener tomorrow.

Jordan Crocker (MBA ’22) exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and purpose. A lawyer and advocate, Crocker has worked with Rainbow Railroad to help 2SLGBTQIA+ asylum seekers find safety and freedom. Through mentorship and legal support, he builds bridges to brighter futures for marginalized individuals globally.

Jaskaran Grewal (MMgt ’18) brings a unique blend of business, legal, and tech expertise to his role as a corporate lawyer. Passionate about the venture ecosystem, Grewal advises emerging companies on navigating digital innovation, growth, and regulation. Outside the boardroom, he’s a dedicated volunteer, supporting non-profits with strategic counsel and community outreach.

Alexander Grynszpan (MBA ’21) is advancing human rights and access to justice. In addition to his work in cross-border capital markets law, Grynszpan volunteers with international NGOs supporting asylum-seeking youth. His legal advocacy ensures that vulnerable populations are heard, represented, and protected.

Svetlana Mamaeva (MBA ’21) is on a mission to close the gender gap in financial literacy. A first-generation Canadian and founder of FinPowered, Mamaeva has led over 100 free financial education workshops in Canada and Moldova, empowering women to take control of their financial futures. Her book, Money On Her Terms, is an extension of her belief that economic empowerment leads to societal transformation.

Tinotenda Mutsvangwa (MMgt ’21) sees finance as a vehicle for empowerment. As a financial advisor at CIBC and co-founder of Incorporate Zim, Mutsvangwa supports Black excellence and entrepreneurship across borders. His work helps individuals and communities build wealth, independence, and lasting change.

Blessing Owusu (MEd ’24) believes that every student deserves to feel seen, valued, and included. Through her research on Black student experiences and her children’s book Abena’s Adventures: A Taste of Home, Owusu is reshaping classrooms with narratives of representation, belonging, and identity—transforming how equity is taught and lived in education.

Aniket Prabhudesai (MASc ’22) is taking Canadian innovation to space—literally. As part of the technical team at MDA Space, Prabhudesai is working on the Canadarm 3 and other next-generation space robotics. His contributions are advancing humanity’s reach and Canada's legacy in space exploration.

Pankaj Puar (MSc ’21) stands at the cutting edge of science and medicine. As a senior medical student at the University of British Columbia and PhD candidate at the University of Toronto, Puar plays a key role in global clinical trials. His research into novel therapies is already shaping how diseases are treated, and lives are saved around the world.

Anjelica Ramsewack (MMgt ’21) is using storytelling to dismantle barriers and create impact. As co-founder of Engage, Ramsewack empowers BIPOC youth to become changemakers through accessible education and creative policy communication. Her work brings clarity, voice, and opportunity to communities that need it most.

Nathan Yiu (MDEM ’21) turns compassion into action in times of crisis. As Emergency Planning Advisor for the City of Vaughan and a global volunteer with the World Organization of the Scout Movement, Yiu empowers communities to prepare for the unexpected—inspiring a culture of resilience, service, and shared responsibility.

These 12 remarkable individuals are more than achievers—they are architects of a better world. Across industries, across borders, and across lived experiences, they embody the values of leadership, inclusivity, and innovation that define 91��ɫ’s graduate community.

Launched in 2021, the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program continues to spotlight the energy and excellence of young alumni who apply their 91��ɫ education to transform lives, communities, and the world at large.

Discover more about these inspiring changemakers and find out how you can be part of the movement for positive change by visiting the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 website.

The post Leaders of Tomorrow, Shaping a Better World Today—Top 30 Alumni Under 30! appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

Bintu Alkassoum (MMAI ’22)

Bintu Alkassoum is a Toronto-based previous startup founder and current artificial intelligence (AI) adoption manager at BASF Canada. Bintu's expertise lies in artificial intelligence strategy, data analytics and product development. As the AI adoption manager at BASF's Digital Hub, she helps drive AI innovation in a large enterprise environment to enhance organizational efficiency and strategic decision-making. Bintu's entrepreneurial achievements are apparent in her role as the founder and CEO of RELOOPED, a sustainable fashion marketplace app. This initiative highlights her prowess in product design and user research, as well as her commitment to responsible consumption. Bintu's work is characterized by a blend of creative excellence and a deep commitment to social responsibility. She continuously leverages technology for the greater good, making tangible impacts in her communities by addressing pressing issues such as sustainability, ethical AI and social justice. Bintu is an active member of the Women in AI branch of the Toronto Machine Learning Society, Microsoft Azure Community, and the Old Girls Club. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in the AI and broader technology ecosystem.

Khadeja Elsibai (BPA ’20, MPPAL ’22)

Khadeja Elsibai is a public servant, community builder, connector and people-oriented leader. Her passion for building community and creating spaces for learning and growth has mainly been unleashed within the public sector as member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Public Administration of Canada's Toronto Region Chapter (IPAC Toronto) and as co-chair of Future Leaders of Ontario (FLO), the inter-departmental network for new and young federal public servants based in Ontario. Through these leadership roles, Khadeja has co-led many initiatives including two mentorship programs, the organizing of IPAC Toronto’s flagship event, the Emerging Leaders Conference and launched IPAC Toronto’s Emerging New Professional Award, an award that recognizes emerging leaders in the GTHA’s public sector. Khadeja has also led many communications and outreach initiatives within the public sector, and co-organized many learning and networking events that aim to facilitate horizontal collaboration and the cross-pollination of knowledge to create opportunities for professional development. In addition, Khadeja assists with organizing community events and fundraising initiatives across North America for Molham Volunteering Team, a Syrian grassroots charity dedicated to supporting Syrians and Arabs in need across the Arab region.

Ketaki Gadre (MF ’21)

Ketaki Gadre is a finance and accounting professional, educator and published author. Ketaki’s expertise spans financial due diligence, risk assessment, control environment development and auditing. As an instructor at Fleming College, she nurtures the next generation of professionals through advanced finance/accounting education, infusing fresh perspectives as one of the youngest instructors in her college. She encourages interactive learning methods and makes frequent use of case studies. Beyond the classroom, she has contributed articles to scholarly journals, that include "Farm Loan Waiver – A Real Solution to Agricultural Enigma?" and "Feasibility of Bitcoin in India – A Discussion.” Ketaki also serves as a reviewer for prestigious journals such as the Asian Journal of Economics, Business and Accounting and the Journal of Economics, Management, and Trade. By providing constructive feedback as a reviewer for academic journals, she actively contributes to elevating the quality of published research, reinforcing their commitment to enhance the capability of the academic community and the positive changes it can bring about in the knowledge pool.

_{This is a collage of our Grad Studies Top 30 under 30 winners of 2024}

John Lau (BA ’17, MES ’19)

John Lau is a senior advisor at the Ontario Energy Board's Energy Transition department. After graduating from 91��ɫ, John Lau helped combat climate change by working on energy and environment policy at Natural Resources Canada. John monitored and analyzed international and domestic clean energy policies and led cooperation between federal and provincial governments to report on the progress of clean energy policy implementation. John then joined the Natural Gas and Hydrogen team at Natural Resources Canada where he has led the federal government's policy and market analysis related to gaseous fuels. John also spearheaded projects focused on natural gas sector decarbonization and advancing progress toward net-zero emissions for Canada and its allies. John has been featured as a presenter at many conferences on climate change mitigation. These include conferences hosted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Hydrogen Heating Network (HHN). John was also an independent expert reviewer for International Energy Agency (IEA) publications. John has been working to ensure that Canada’s clean-energy transition is successful and enlists participation and support from all Canadians and stakeholders. In 2020, John was recognized as one of Corporate Knight Magazine's Top 30 Under 30 Sustainability Leaders.

Sara Pishdadian (MA ’18, PhD ’23)

Sara Pishdadian works at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in the Geriatrics Mental Health, Neuropsychology Assessment and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis services providing clinical services and conducting research. Her dissertation research investigated memory and spatial navigation abilities in older adults and individuals with amnesia and was recognized with a 91��ɫ Dissertation Prize. Sara held many leadership and advocacy roles at 91��ɫ including co-founding the Psychology Undergraduate Mentorship Program (PUMP), co-chairing the Psychology Graduate Students’ Association (PGSA), and being an active member of the Psychology department’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) committee. She is an active member of Health Care Providers Against Poverty (HPAP) and has contributed to national initiatives focused on equity and inclusion regarding psychology residency salaries. Sara also mentors graduate students through the American Arab, Middle Eastern, and North African (AMENA) Psychological Association. Sara is a passionate clinician, researcher and advocate for providing high quality mental health care, particularly to underserved individuals such as older adults and individuals with severe and persistent mental illness.

Sam Rockbrune (MA ’19)

Samantha (Sam) Rockbrune (she/her) is a leader in the non-profit sector with nearly ten years of experience in social and climate justice locally and nationally. She is a graduate of 91��ɫ's Master of Arts in Socio-Legal Studies in which her research took a critical stance on law and policy. She is a co-founder and former board director of Students for Consent Culture Canada, a national non-profit working to end campus sexual violence and promote cultures of consent. Currently, Sam is the executive director for the Kawartha World Issues Centre (KWIC), an award-winning charity focused on connecting global issues to local initiatives in the Nogojiwanong area of Peterborough, Ontario. Under her leadership, KWIC has undertaken impactful community projects to advance and amplify gender equality locally and support youth climate justice projects. In 2023, Sam was also the interim executive director for. The Trent Aboriginal Cultural Knowledges and Sciences (TRACKS) youth program, facilitating dynamic, land-based youth programming that braids multiple scientific approaches by centring Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

Congratulations to this year’s crop of dedicated, ambitioous, innovative and creative young minds who are creating meaningful change and working to right the future in significant ways. These motivated leaders highlight the many life paths made possible with a 91��ɫ degree.

The post FGS celebrates 6 recipients of 91��ɫ's Top 30 Alumni Under 30 Award appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

_{De-Lawrence Lamptey}

The EMBARK program offers two scientists the following over a three-year term: Start-up funds for their research; principle investigator status; access to advisors from a diverse range of backgrounds; connections to networks and career support; and media profiling to build their personal brands. In his new role, Lamptey will develop and lead an independent research program that advances scholarship in childhood disability, with a focus on meaningfully engaging Black communities.

Previously, Lamptey was one of the inaugural recipients of the Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars at 91��ɫ. The program supports up to four scholars every year in any field of study and provides the successful applicants with a salary of $70,000 annually for a two-year term. The important initiative seeks to address underrepresentation in many disciplines and fields, by providing Black and Indigenous scholars the ability to dedicate their time to pursue new research, while accessing the collegial resources, faculty supervision and mentorship. While at 91��ɫ, Lamptey’s research focused on the intersectionality of race/ethnicity and disability among children and youth in Canada, providing him the necessary expertise to succeed in his new role.

Programs like EMBARK and the Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars actively address the systemic barriers that researchers from Black communities experience in advancing their careers by providing them the opportunities and resources to push the boundaries of knowledge. Work performed by Black scholars in these programs results in better science as well as positive change.

The Faculty of Graduate Studies wishes Lamptey the best of luck. He will be starting his new position as an EMBARK scientist on September 1, 2023.

The post De-Lawrence Lamptey named Holland Bloorview’s first EMBARK scientist—the first of its kind in Canada! appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

The post FGSnews appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

Book a Campus Tour with FGS!

The post News and Events appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

Suzanna Alsayed (MDEM '20)

In 2019, Suzanna Alsayed founded Hilt International Security, her first venture, a holistic security firm with the goal to protect people and assets worldwide. Moreover, in mid-2020, she established Evolutz Inc., an independent global brand, design, copy and website development agency. She received numerous accolades from experts and professionals in the field, which demonstrate her high level of engagement in the industry. In addition to her professional success, Suzanna strives to promote positive change in her community. Since 2020, she is a member of Women in Defence and Security (WiDS) which focuses on advancing the careers of women in defence and security fields.

Sayjon Ariyarathnam (JD/MBA '20)

Sayjon Ariyarathnam is a banking and finance lawyer at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP. He is also a board member with the Community Legal Clinic of 91��ɫ Region, a not-for-profit organization that promotes universal access to justice and poverty elimination. Additionally, Sayjon is dedicated to creating a positive difference by passionately promoting access to resources and opportunities outside of his profession. He is actively involved with Law in Action Within Schools as a mentor to students who face personal and systemic barriers to success. Through his engagement in sessions aimed at exposing students to law and justice through workshops, mentorship and employment, he is helping many vulnerable students reach their goals.

Elijah Bawuah (MES '21)

Jc Elijah (Eli) M. Bawuah is a practicing urban planner and public consultant with multi-disciplinary experience gained by working in a spectrum of city and community-building roles. He is the co-founder of the Mentoring Initiative for Indigenous and Planners of Colour (MIIPOC) which focuses on establishing a national network between experienced and emerging planners from marginalized communities. Eli is also a committee member of the City of Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ Council Advisory Body, strategizing policies aimed at removing barriers faced by the queer community. Eli exemplifies a true leader by advocating and prioritizing goals that will help foster diversity and inclusion in urban planning.

Jonathan Clodman (MEd '20)

Jonathan Clodman is an elementary teacher with the Toronto District School Board who is always looking for new opportunities to help others. His work extends through a variety of classroom, camp and community experiences, including the boards of two community-based children’s non-profits. Jonathan was previously a co-director of Vaccine Hunters Canada, where he developed onboarding resources, supported volunteer responders and collaborated with a variety of educational stakeholders. As a teacher, Jonathan passes along his drive for meaningful change to the younger generation by encouraging his students to get involved with their community.

Bri Darboh (MA '19)

Bri Darboh is a senior doctoral student in clinical psychology and neuropsychology at 91��ɫ, as well as a part-time MBA student specializing in health industry management and organization studies at the Schulich School of Business. She is dedicated to creating progressive changes to healthcare by addressing pipeline issues resulting in BIPOC underrepresentation through contributing to several professional and community initiatives. She is an inaugural student representative of the Society for Black Neuropsychology as well as the co-president of 91��ɫ’s Black Students in Psychology (BSIP) organization. Bri has spearheaded BSIP’s recent efforts to expand the organization to the entire faculty of Health at 91��ɫ in order to ensure that all BIPOC students with a proclivity for healthcare are being effectively reached.

Osman Naqvi (MSTM '17)

Osman Naqvi works as an advisor, investor services at Invest in Canada—a global investment attraction and promotion agency that facilitates global investment into Canada. Osman’s work outside his profession focuses on serving many causes including youth, women, refugees and more, which has directly impacted thousands of families across Canada. Osman’s philanthropic journey began at 13 when he founded the Bayshore Youth Council. He continued serving his community and fostering positive change through numerous boards and charities before co-founding YOUth Heroes, a non-profit organization that provides mentorship and entrepreneurship education to marginalized youth. Osman has received accolades from all levels of government and various charitable organizations, such as Canada’s 150 award and United Way’s Community Builder award.

Jason Robinson (MES '19)

Jason’s current roles include data analyst for the Rural Ontario Institute and policy specialist for the Community Climate Council. As a leader of his community dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, he co-founded Gradient Spaces, a place for BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ people passionate about making tech more equitable. Specifically, he works on collecting data to address the issues racialized and queer people face in the tech ecosystem. Moreover, Jason is a Youth Program Facilitator at Ecosource where he is recognized for bringing an environmental justice perspective to the monthly virtual workshops aimed at youth and adults to increase intergenerational conservation related to climate change.

Congratulations to this year’s group of dedicated young minds who are creating meaningful change and working to right the future in significant ways. These motivated leaders highlight the many life paths made possible with a 91��ɫ degree.

The post FGS Celebrates 7 Recipients of 91��ɫ's Top 30 Alumni Under 30 Award appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

The post Tri-Council Announces Special Response Fund for Ukraine Trainees appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).

The post Graduate students in our Development Studies program receive prestigious scholarships and awards appeared first on Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS).