David Firang

Dr. David Firang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work at Trent University, where he also holds appointments in the M.A. Sustainability Studies (MASS) and PhD IDSR programs. He previously served as Assistant Professor (Ltd) at the University of Windsor’s School of Social Work, focusing on curriculum leadership in advanced social policy and community practice. With over 13 years in child welfare at Toronto’s Children’s Aid Society and experience in community advocacy, Dr. Firang bridges academic and practical social work expertise. His research emphasizes Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), immigrant transnationalism, environmental sustainability, and Afro-Canadian issues. He has led projects funded by SSHRC, Theall Research Grant, and the Symons Foundation, contributing to over a dozen peer-reviewed articles since 2018.

Education:

• PhD and MSW, University of Toronto
• M.A., University of Saskatchewan
• Post-Diploma, British Columbia Institute of Technology
• B.A., University of Ghana

Research Focus: Dr. Firang’s work explores transnational immigrant practices, housing inequities, and the intersection of race and environmental justice. Recent studies analyze Ghanaian diasporic housing strategies, pandemic impacts on international students, and anti-Black racism in policing. His advocacy spans Black communities, international students, and African diasporas in Toronto.

Grants & Awards:

• SSHRC Research Grant
• Theall Research Grant
• Symons Research Foundation Grant
• SSHRC Insight Development Grant (IDG)

Leadership & Community Engagement: Dr. Firang has led equity initiatives for marginalized communities, including grants management for Toronto’s Access & Equity Division. His roles in the Ghanaian Methodist diaspora and African community advocacy reflect his commitment to social justice.