Dr Karen Felstead is a seasoned educator with a strong focus on early childhood education and its intersection with social justice. With over 17 years at Federation University, she has taught across various levels, from early childhood to postgraduate studies. Her extensive experience in both Australian and international classrooms, coupled with postgraduate qualifications in education and applied linguistics, has equipped her with a deep understanding of language acquisition, particularly for children from diverse backgrounds. Karen's research has centred on the experiences of vulnerable young mothers, exploring the systemic barriers they face. Her work employs qualitative research methods to illuminate the voices of these marginalized individuals. Currently, her research interests span social justice, diversity, inclusion, language development, and supporting children with language impairments.