Dr. Sheila Christie is an Associate Professor of English and Drama at CBU. Her research and artistic practice includes dramatic literature, fanfiction, stage management, and applied theatre (particularly theatre for social change). She is dedicated to helping students, community members, and fellow researchers develop the skills and experiences they need to make the world a better place and foster hope in the face of local and global challenges. As of July 1, 2021, Dr. Christie left her post (a three-year term) as Associate Director at The Centre for Sound Communities to take on a new role as Chair of the…

DARENE ROMA YAVORSKY • Communications, Editing & Creative Design Art, literature and music were the lens through which Darene began to see the world from an early age, and the focus intensified into a passion and synchronous occupation as her career has unfolded. Production management for an advertising agency and a software-writing firm; newspaper and magazine editing; freelance work for government, industry, educational institutions and charitable organizations ~ leading to her formation of The Word & Image Studio where creative pursuits have made her an affiliate of Access Copyright, The Canadian Copyright Licensing Agency under three categories: writer, publisher and…

Eric Escudero has collaborated as a research assistant with Dr. Marcia Ostashewski and The Centre for Sound Communities on various projects since 2020, including his role as project manager for the release and promotion of Bala, Lassana Diabaté’s CD of balafón music recorded and produced at The Centre for Sound Communities. As currrent Research, Engagement, and Education Lead, Eric’s responsibilities encompass research and asset creation, curation, and dedicated support of community-engaged projects and educational initiatives. Originally from São Paulo, Brazil, Eric attained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Multimedia from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo. Subsequently,…

“I am Selina Kibanda, a lab and research assistant at The Centre for Sound Communities. Recently, I participated in the CSC’s African workshop that was taking place around Sydney. As part of my role, I was able to film, take pictures, teach, and choreograph for others to learn. I also had the opportunity to participate in the CSC’s Tea with the Elders event, helping with the preparations, and engaging in conversation with lovely people. I am working on a Bachelor’s degree in Community Studies at Cape Breton University. I’ve always been passionate about the arts, particularly in theatre and performance. I’ve…

Amira Monsiba Wusa Manga is a dedicated Administrative and Finance Officer at The Centre for Sound Communities, where she excels in managing project budgets and streamlining office operations for efficiency. Currently a student at Cape Breton University, Amira is pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management, building on her Bachelor of Science in Administration with a specialization in accounting from the University of Ghana Business School. Originally from Ghana, West Africa, Amira brings a rich blend of international experience and a deep commitment to fostering community through her studies and work.

    Research Assistant Tugi Ngochi is a Bachelor of Business Administration student, majoring in Marketing at Cape Breton University. Tugi is a passionate dancer and singer with a background in ballet, now focusing on contemporary, Afrobeat and traditional dance. Tugi is an experienced performer, a choreographer, and teacher of dance for children. She is also skilled in videography and content creation.

Mark Lenini Parselelo is an Ethnomusicology Ph.D. Candidate at Memorial University, Newfoundland and Labrador. His research interests are in Dance and Music. Mark has been involved in curation, performing, and artist management in the Nairobi music industry. Since moving to Newfoundland for his studies he has been actively involved in the Newfoundland music industry, performing East African folk tunes at festivals and events around the province. He is also been part of juries for music awards and grants in Newfoundland. Mark is currently the LAB Manager and Project Co-ordinator at The Centre for Sound Communities.

Ana Luísa Ramos, an award-winning Brazilian singer-songwriter and Administrative Officer at The Citadel House, now serves as Social Media Manager at The Centre for Sound Communities. With a Bachelor degree in Music Education and a Graduate degree in Vocal Artistry, Ana infuses her artistic expertise into over 15 recorded albums, spanning Bossa Nova, Jazz, Classical Music, and North American Folk. Ana is a dedicated community advocate serving at the Planning Committee for the BIPOC Creators Collective NL and was a member at the MusicNL Member Task Force.  

Ulises Garcia Figueroa is originally from the city of Toluca in Mexico. He has a BA in Communication Sciences from Tec de Monterrey and an MA in Ethnomusicology from Memorial University of Newfoundland. He is interested in Latin American popular music and how its expressions are related to society and culture. Racism, new masculinities, and gender issues are also among his research concerns. His professional career includes executive production of TV shows, a research assistantship at the Research Centre for the Study of Music, Media, and Place at MUN, and higher education teaching in Mexico and Canada. In addition to music research,…

Leim Joe is a student at Cape Breton University with a concentration in ethnomusicology. This past summer Leim finished the requirements for the BA program and will graduate in November 2024. He has recently been enrolled into St. FX University for the Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey Cohort Bachelor of Education program, a part-time program with a focus on Mi’kmaq educational perspectives and learning. Leim also serves in the Canadian Forces as a reservist with the Cape Breton Highlanders Infantry Unit where he has taught multiple courses, including the Black Bear program, a Basic Military program for Indigenous youth in Atlantic Canada. At…