Kayonne Christy
I am a qualitative sociologist working at the intersection of diaspora/ethnic return, migration, and digital media technologies.
What Shapes a Diaspora’s Vision of Home—and Their Decision to Return?
My current doctoral research examines how ideas about one’s ancestral homeland are constructed, legitimized, and contested within a diaspora —both through real-world actions and digital discourse — and how these narratives shape the voluntary return pathways of its young adults.
Researcher
I have over eight years of experience conducting qualitative research, spanning academic, policy, and community-based projects. My expertise lies in employing both primary and secondary qualitative research methods to explore and address contemporary social issues. I have conducted research across Canada, the U.S., and Jamaica, exploring topics such as urban and health inequalities, racism, medical education, the impact of COVID-19 on society, and, most recently, diaspora return.
My current doctoral research, which examines the return pathways of young adults of Jamaican descent, is generously supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).
Educator
I am an experienced educator with over five years of university teaching across Canada and the U.S.
I have designed and taught courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, have led faculty development and research workshops, and have delivered numerous guest lectures.
Rooted in critical pedagogy, my teaching seeks to foster engaged learning and to equip learners with the analytical tools they’ll need to examine and challenge systemic inequalities in their everyday lives.
