Dr. Julie Cairnie

Biography

Julie Cairnie specializes in Southern African literature, focusing on the cultural exchanges and complexities surrounding Zimbabwean literature and Canadian Indigenous-Settler relationships. Her career began at Mutorashanga Secondary School in Zimbabwe, where she integrated her research with teaching, fostering a deeper understanding of Afro-centric narratives. Her dissertation, which examined the involvement of poor whites in philanthropy within white South African and Zimbabwean literature, was published as 'Imperialists Broken Boots: Poor Whites Philanthropy Southern African Life Writing' by Cambridge Scholars Publishing. Additionally, she co-edited 'Moving Spirit: Legacy of Dambudzo Marechera in the 21st Century,' showcasing interpretations of Marechera's impactful works. Cairnie's interest in sport is reflected in her writings, particularly an article titled 'Reading Running,' which discusses the complexities of running culture in Africa, especially in Kenya. Her research also investigates Canadian hockey masculinities and draws parallels with Southern African narratives, aiming to understand the formation of ethical relationships among people.

Research Interests