Home » Research at the Mount » Research Centres and Institutes » Early Childhood Collaborative Research Centre » Projects » Promoting Equity in Early Childhood: A Storytelling Series to Build Atlantic Connections

Promoting Equity in Early Childhood: A Storytelling Series to Build Atlantic Connections

The 2023 storytelling series was part of a project funded by SSHRC (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council) led by Dr. Jessie- Lee McIsaac (Tier II Canada Research Chair in Early Childhood: Diversity and Transition) at the Early Childhood Collaborative Research Centre located at Mount Saint Vincent University.

This project is also supported by the Margaret and Wallace McCain Family Foundation in partnership with universities, government departments, and early childhood associations across Atlantic Canada. Thank you to the funders and partners who made this work possible.

The purpose of this project is to build connections and showcase research and practice focused on equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (or EDIA) in early learning and child care.

Storytelling Series

The 2023 storytelling sessions took the form of a three-part series and aimed to mobilize Atlantic-wide research and practice. Each session highlighted speakers from across Atlantic Canada on key topics critical to EDIA.

We want to send out a heartfelt thank you to the storytellers for their generosity of time and knowledge.

Thank you to each and every participant who joined us virtually and was keen on engaging in courageous and profound conversations about equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in early childhood.

See our storytellers for each of the sessions below!

Promoting Equity in Early Childhood: Continuing the conversation to build Atlantic connections

On October 3rd, 2023, a Fireside Chat took place at Mount Saint Vincent University and focused focused on building equity in early childhood. Local experts with practical experiences in the Atlantic provinces will shared their knowledge, insights, and experiences relating to equity in early childhood. Check out the recording to listen to the conversation.

Check out our Knowledge Hub below for recordings and more!

Knowledge Hub

Newcomer Early Childhood Educators (October 30, 2024)

A headshot picture of Cynthia Urtubia smiling at the camera.

Cynthia Urtubia (NS)

“Your culture empowers your practice”

I am Cynthia Urtubia, Early Childhood Educator by profession originally from Chile. I arrived to the beautiful Nova Scotia almost 6 years ago.

The Wolfville Children’s Centre was the first place that welcomed me as an ECE and encouraged me to incorporate my culture and background into my practice.
Currently, as a faculty member at NSCC, I enjoy supporting learners in achieving their goals. My passion for Early Childhood Education has allowed me to enjoy over 15 years of experience in this field. With a background in Curriculum development, I have worked in
various educational settings. In classrooms, academic coordination, and mentoring schools in the educational system in Chile.

Outside of work, I enjoy connecting with people and exploring the beautiful places this province offers. I am in love with the Nova Scotia landscape! I enjoy walking and taking pictures while admiring the sunset. I am looking forward to connecting with other educators and contributing to our community of learning.

Omobosola Lasisi (NL)

“Vision for the future”

My name is Omobosola Lasisi, though many refer to me as Mrs. B. I am an early childhood educator based in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Originally from Nigeria, my journey into education was inspired by watching my father, a school principal, positively influence the lives of his students. I earned my Teacher’s Certificate in 1985 and worked as a primary school teacher for several years before becoming a full-time homemaker to raise my four children. Due to my husband’s job, our family relocated to several countries, including Cameroon, Angola, and the United States, before settling in Newfoundland in 2016. By that time, my children were off to university, which allowed me to return to education.

In 2017, I transitioned back into the field after earning a Diploma in Child Care Provider from Ashworth College in the U.S. While working as an early childhood educator in Newfoundland, I furthered my qualifications with a Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation from Academy Canada in 2020 and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Keyin College in 2022. I am a strong believer in the power of education, and I am deeply passionate about shaping young lives through my work.

A headshot of Camila Alonso with arms folded at her chest in a blue spotted shirt

Camila Alonso (NB)

“Communication without borders”

I am an extrovertive Brazilian educator working with 2-3-year-olds from different backgrounds. I have 1 year of experience in the area and 20+ years as a communicator.
I speak 4 languages and am passionate about fostering creativity and critical thinking in children. I am committed to building strong partnerships with families to support each child’s unique development. Outside the classroom, I enjoy going for walks and hikes with my 2 rescued dogs and exploring new educational resources to enhance my teaching practice.

A picture of a woman standing in a blue shirt and a blue flurry skirt that reaches to her toes

Anudeep Makker (NS)

“The loop of learning: a story of hopes and aspiration”

My name is Anudeep Makker, I go by a short name, Anu. I am an Early Childhood Educator at the Child Study Centre, Mount Saint Vincent University. I immigrated to Canada from New Delhi, India in 2020. I am passionate about early childhood education and consider myself fortunate to be able to teach with, ‘two hearts’, Indian and Candian. This thought stems from my belief in collaboration, inclusion, respect for diversity and admiration for children.

I was born in New Delhi, India and lived in an extended family with parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts throughout my childhood. I live in Halifax with my family. I recently became a Canadian citizen.

I completed my high school education in Delhi and then took admission into University of Delhi to pursue a degree in Early and elementary education. After finishing school, I began working with a nongovernmental organization to create teaching and learning materials for small public schools to promote play based teaching of numeracy and literacy in early years. I took to full time teaching in preprimary in 2009 and went back to studies in 2016 to do my master’s in English literature.

Picture of a woman in a redshirt and a grey skirt smiling into the camera

Amanpreet Kaur (PEI)

“Together we can do great things”

My name is Amanpreet Kaur, and I studied at CDI College in Montreal. In August 2022, I moved to Prince Edward Island, where I now work at Little Blessings Childcare Centre, supporting young children’s growth and development.

I am passionate about early childhood education and fostering a nurturing learning environment.

2023 Storytelling Series (Recordings and more!)

Final Report

Meet our storytellers below!

Culturally Responsive Programming Storytellers (May 10th, 2023)

Nicholas Phillips (NS)
‘Mi’kmaw ECE program in Mi’kma’ki’
Nicholas (Nik) Phillips is a Treaty Education Policy Analyst for the provincial department of Office of L’nu Affairs, and a faculty member of the Nova Scotia Community College, teaching Early Childhood Education and the Poqji-kina’masulti’kw tel-kina’mujik mijua’ji’jk (Mi’kmaq Early Childhood Education) program. He is a member of Mulin Sipu (Millbrook Mi’kmaw Nation). As a young two-spirited knowledge holder, Nik embodies the practice of Etuaptmumk (two-eyed seeing), bringing a wealth of Indigenous and Western knowledge to his life and work. He holds the belief that reconciliation is imbedded in our ability to share, listen, and understand one another. He is a well rounded person who believes in supporting others in their own places of knowing. Nik holds a BA (Honours) and MA (Child and Youth Study) from Mount Saint Vincent University. He is an active member of community who advocates for language, culture, inclusivity, and equity.

Email: Nicholas.Phillips@nscc.ca

Debbie Ingram (NL)
‘Embracing and celebrating diversity: implementing cultural programming into our everyday practices’
Debbie is the Child Development Coordinator with First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre. With roots in Mi’kmaq ancestry, Debbie is dedicated to sharing her heritage with the community and is particularly passionate about immersing the children in indigenous culture teachings. Outside of work, Debbie is a devoted mother to her 17-year-old daughter from China, who is the pride and joy of her life. She is also a well-known local fibre artist, known for her traditional granny square creations in the community.

Email: debbie@firstlightnl.ca

Dr. Gabriela Arias de Sanchez (PEI)
‘Show me your ways: The entanglement of family literacy through play’
Dr. Gabriela Arias de Sanchez is an assistant professor at the University of Prince Edward Island Faculty of Education specializing in early years pedagogies. Her current research focuses on the revitalization of play pedagogies in formal education systems. Gabriela cannot resist Latino music. She will dance until the last song is played.

Email: gsanchez@upei.ca

Emily Cook McDonald (PEI)
‘Show me your ways: The entanglement of family literacy through play’
Emily Cook-McDonald is a UPEI MEd student specializing in arts education and multi-literacies. Emily leads the UPEI Literacy and Numeracy Outreach Project, providing play-based educational opportunities for children and families throughout Prince Edward Island. When not at work, you can find her enjoying beach walks or cheering on her kids from the sidelines of a soccer field.

Email: ecook@upei.ca

Kristin Dawson (NB)
‘Honoring linguistic cultures of New Brunswick Children and Families’
Kristen has over 15 years of early childhood experience. Her career has expanded over the years through many pathways, including pedagogical research, program and curriculum development, and supporting ongoing professional learning and reflective practice. Within her current role as a program consultant, with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, Kristen is dedicated to strengthening the early childhood workforce by providing access to innovative ECE training and professional learning opportunities across the province.

Email: Kristen.Dawson@gnb.ca

Stacey Arbuckle (NB)
‘Honoring linguistic cultures of New Brunswick Children and Families’
Stacey works as an Early Learning Consultant for the Dept. of Education and Early Childhood Development. She currently facilitates the 90-hr Introduction to Early Childhood Education online course and is passionate about supporting new educators as they learn about the New Brunswick Curriculum Framework for Early Learning and Childcare-English and Best Practices in the field of Early Learning and Childcare.

Email: Stacey.Arbuckle@gnb.ca

Anti-oppression Storytellers (May 24th, 2023)

Adam Braye (NL/NS)
‘Life outside the lines: Supporting gender diversity in the early years’

Adam, originally from St. John’s, Newfoundland has worked with children and youth in various capacities and contexts for over 15 years. Currently, he is a consultant/instructor at the Jane Norman College. He actively advocates for the transgender community and offers workshops on Supporting Gender Diversity in the Early Years.

The core of his practice is creating a healthy community through positive relationships. They believe creating a connection between people, allowing people to feel seen, heard and valued is the foundation to success.

Email: adam.braye@janenorman.can

Pam Whitty (NB)
‘Gender fluidity as equitable practice’

Pam has had the pleasure and privilege of working in Early Childhood Education for almost 50 years. She recently retired from 30 years as a professor Early Childhood and Critical Studies at UNB.

She lives on the unceded lands of the Wolastoqey Peoples in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Currently, she is working on ECE projects in gender-expansiveness and digital literacies.

Email: whitty@unb.ca

Moashella Shortte (NS)
‘Making Room for All in the Circle of Change’

Moashella is a mother, educator, author, and child and youth advocate. She spent her formative working years in the field of ECE in one of Nova Scotia’s largest Black communities. She currently serves as lead faculty for the Africentric Cohort of the ECE program at the Nova Scotia Community College.

Moashella defines her mission as providing learners with exceptional learning experiences that will help them build a strong, positive foundation for learning for life!

Email: moashella.shortte@nscc.ca

Accessibility and Inclusion (June 7th, 2023)

Megan Griffith (NB)
Human Rights and Accommodation in Early Learning

Megan has held several roles within the Government of New Brunswick, with responsibilities for information privacy, legislative affairs, and policy. In her current role as Registrar for the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, Megan focuses on compliance and process improvement, as well as increasing the awareness of rights and responsibilities regarding human rights across the province.

Email: hrc.cdp@gnb.ca

Jill Shaw (NB)
Loved, Heard & Respected

Jill Shaw is the Director at Centreville Child Care, a non profit designated centre located in Centreville, NB. She has been in the child care field since 1982. Starting out in her home in Royalton, moving on to preschool educator and then establishing Centreville Child Care in 2005. She currently manages 3 locations, 21 employees, and 82 childcare spaces. Along with the board of directors, she is currently working on a new facility expansion project in her community to help meet the need of the current child care crises.

She has been married to Ronnie for 41 years and has 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. She is an active member at her church and loves to also work with the children there. Jill’s passion is that all children will feel loved, heard and respected within her centres and throughout her community.

Email: jlshaw@bellaliant.com

Jennifer Nangreaves (PEI)
The tools we need

Jenn is the Executive Director of the Early Childhood Development Association of PEI, she has been with the ECDA since March of 2020, prior to that she held a variety of roles within the Early Learning and Childcare Sector, both in PEI and Alberta. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts with a Major in Sociology, a Bachelor of Education specializing in Indigenous Studies and Literacy in the Early Years, as well as a Certificate in Early Childhood Education from NBCC. Jenn was born and raised in the Valley, but has settled her life in Hazelbrook with her dog Molly.

Megan McPhee (PEI)
The tools we need

Megan is the Professional Learning Coordinator/Assistant Executive Director of the Early Childhood Development Association of PEI, she has been with the ECDA since November of 2019, prior to that she spent her time creating beautiful messes with three and four year old children for 12 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in English from UPEI as well as a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education from Holland College. She is an Island girl through and through, and lives in the country with her partner and 6 pets.

Dr. Shanon Phelan (NS)
Pursuing Inclusion in Early Learning & Childcare: Stories from Mothers of Children Experiencing Disability

Dr. Shanon Phelan, is an Associate Professor in the School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health, and is cross appointed to the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, at Dalhousie University. Shanon’s research aims to understand and improve inclusion, belonging, and well-being for children who experience disability and their families.

Colleen Diggins (NS)
Pursuing Inclusion in Early Learning & Childcare: Stories from Mothers of Children Experiencing Disability

Colleen Diggins is a MSc Occupational Science student, School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, and an occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience in pediatrics. Her research aims to understand the invisible work mothers do in pursuit of inclusive early learning and childcare for their children who experience disability.

Rhea Dale (NFL)Rhea Dale (NFL)
Inclusion not guaranteed: The battles of a mom and child care advocate

Rhea has lived in Labrador since 2009. Rhea has three young children and they love being active outdoors, going to the cabin and spending time together. Rhea also has two dogs and a cat. Rhea works in the field of Child Development and Autism Services as well as a past long term member of the board that runs their local daycare. Rhea is passionate and an advocate for inclusion in the field of early childhood education.

Email: rhea_manning@hotmail.com

Fireside Chat Storytellers (October 3rd, 2023)

Moashella Shortte- Fire Side Chat Moderator

Moashella Shortte is a mother, educator, author, and child and youth advocate. She currently serves as lead faculty for the Africentric Cohort of the ECE program at the Nova Scotia Community College. She spent her formative working years in the field of ECE in one of Nova Scotia’s largest Black communities.

Moashella defines her mission as providing learners with exceptional learning experiences that will help them build a strong, positive foundation for learning for life!

Debbie Ingram- Fireside Chat Story Teller

Debbie Ingram is the Child Development Coordinator with First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre. With roots in Mi’kmaq ancestry, Debbie is dedicated to sharing her heritage with the community and is particularly passionate about immersing the children in indigenous culture teachings. Outside of work, Debbie is a devoted mother to her 17-year-old daughter from China, who is the pride and joy of her life. She is also a well-known local fibre artist, known for her traditional granny square creations in the community.

Nathalie Nadeau- Fireside Chat Storyteller

Nathalie Nadeau serves as the Executive Director of CHANCES Inc., a non-profit and charitable organization. With a mission centered on delivering holistic child development and parental support programs, CHANCES Inc. is unwavering in its commitment to diversity, serving as a pillar of strength and support for countless families.

Before her tenure at CHANCES Inc., Nathalie held the position of Executive Director for Child, Family, and Community Wellness within the Government of the Northwest Territories. Her vast experience spans over 17 years in pivotal leadership roles, predominantly working with vulnerable populations. Nathalie’s dedication lies in early childhood development and learning, coupled with a deep-rooted belief in family-centered care and services. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Business Administration, both from Université de Moncton.

Danielle Larry- Fireside Chat Storyteller

Danielle Larry is Mi’gmaq of the Bear clan from Esgenoopetitj First Nation. She has over 15 years’ experience learning and working as a Support Worker, Educational Assistant, Early Childhood Educator and an instructor in the ECE program at NBCC. She has recently taken on a new role as Indigenous Curriculum Specialist for Early Learning for the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development in New Brunswick.

She is a strong advocate for proper First Nation representation and equity in education; for all children. She hopes to help consult and create new resources that will better serve Early Childhood and the province of New Brunswick on ensuring “Everyone at their best”.

Tayitu- Fireside Chat Storyteller

Tayitu is a supervisor of our largest ECE center for the Care for Newcomer Program at ISANS. She has been in the field of Early Childhood Education since 2000 in varies capacities. As an Immigrant and a mother of four children, working with newcomer children and their families is her great passio

Promoting Equity in Early Childhood: A Storytelling Series to Build Atlantic Connections