Philip Kelly

Philip Kelly is a Professor in the Department of Geography at York University's Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, where he also serves as Associate Dean for Research, Graduate & Global Affairs. He holds a PhD in Geography from the University of British Columbia, an MA from McGill University, and a BA (Hons) in Geography from Oxford University. His academic work centers on migration, transnationalism, and economic geography, with a focus on the Filipino diaspora in Canada and Southeast Asia.

• PhD in Geography, University of British Columbia
• MA in Geography, McGill University
• BA (Hons) in Geography, Oxford University

Professor Kelly’s research explores the intersections of migration, labor, and social justice, particularly in urban labor markets. His work investigates transnational economic practices, caregiver programs, and intergenerational mobility among immigrant families. He emphasizes community-engaged research, collaborating with organizations such as Gabriela-Ontario and Migrante-Canada.

His recent publications reflect a strong focus on labor migration, gender, and urban change. Articles analyze topics such as the Live-In Caregiver Program, Filipino youth transitions, and migrant labor in global fisheries. The research spans disciplines including geography, sociology, migration studies, and development, with recurring themes of inequality, integration, and transnational networks.

He has been recognized with the Canadian Association of Geographers' Julian M. Szeicz Award. His ongoing SSHRC-funded projects include studies on Canada-Philippines transnational economies and labor relations in global fishing industries.

Philip Kelly supervises graduate students in Geography and contributes to curriculum development through community partnerships, such as the PASSOC Project with the Toronto Catholic District School Board. He has co-authored influential texts including Economic Geography: A Contemporary Introduction and edited volumes on labor and capital mobilities in Asia.

He is affiliated with the York Centre for Asian Research and leads collaborative research involving institutions in Canada, the Philippines, and the United States. His work bridges academic scholarship with community mobilization and policy engagement.