Amina Yousaf

Amina Yousaf is the Associate Head of Early Childhood Studies at the University of Guelph-Humber, where she teaches and provides academic leadership within the program.

She is an educator, academic leader, and doctoral candidate in Equity, Diversity, and Social Justice. Her research focuses on how post-secondary institutions can create more inclusive and responsive spaces for diverse student populations. Using intersectional and anti-oppressive frameworks, her research examines how institutional policies and practices impact belonging, representation, and access for marginalized students and offers strategies for systemic change. This research directly informs her approach to early learning by addressing how systemic inequities take root in the earliest stages of a child’s development. Early learning environments are foundational spaces where children form their sense of identity, belonging, and worth. Her research applies intersectional and anti-oppressive frameworks to examine how early childhood programs can either reinforce or challenge these inequities. This work supports educators in creating inclusive, culturally responsive, and affirming spaces where all children, particularly those from marginalized communities, can thrive from the very beginning of their educational journey.

Amina also holds a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology and Education and is an Ontario-certified teacher (OCT). In addition to her teaching and leadership in Early Childhood Studies, she supports initiatives for development and institutional change that prioritize accessibility, anti-oppression, and meaningful inclusion across post-secondary contexts.