John Barnes is a Lecturer in the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). He holds a Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from Acadia University and a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in History and English Literature from Queen's University. Additionally, John is certified by Cambridge University, UK to teach English as an additional language. His areas of expertise include English as a second language, sociolinguistics, intercultural relations, and cultural anthropology. John has taught numerous courses in academic writing, English literature, cultural studies, intercultural relations, linguistics, and professional communication at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He specializes in helping students develop academic reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that are essential for success in university. Notably, he created a new undergraduate course titled 'Skateboarding: A Cultural Bridge', and he has been awarded the 2025 Slobodan Drakulic Cross-Disciplinary Faculty of Arts Teaching Award for his innovative teaching efforts. In addition to his teaching, John has also contributed to various publications, including freelance work featured in the Globe and Mail. He continuously strives to inspire and support his students and colleagues throughout his academic career.