Elaina Gonsalves
Hello! I am pursuing a major in French with a double minor in Health Humanities and Anthropology. I wish to continue my studies at OISE, following their Master of Teaching program to become a French Immersion high school teacher. I recognize the value of having strong black role models in the classroom in fostering positive identity development, inspiring confidence, and promoting a sense of belonging for impressionable black youth. I am passionately dedicated to empowering black students both on and off campus, through mentorship and tutoring, supporting their personal and academic growth.
I am a first generation Canadian born to Barbadian parents but relate more closely with my Caribbean identity. I love to dance and have been doing so since I was three years old. I have explored various dance genres, but always preferred hip hop. I was inspired by the sounds of Missy Elliott, Timbaland, and Busta Rhymes. Dance provided me with an outlet to express myself when words couldn’t do any justice.