I am Lul Yusuf, a mother, educator, writer, and advocate for equity and belonging. I was born and raised in Kenya, in a Swahili speaking home, shaped by many cultures, languages, and histories that continue to guide how I lead, teach, and live.

As a Black African Muslim woman, my voice was not always heard in the spaces I moved through. But every part of my journey, including the struggles, the silence, and the small acts of kindness, has shaped the work I now do.

Growing up multilingual, speaking Swahili, English, and more, I learned early how powerful language can be, and how deeply systems can overlook you. I was placed in school too early, labeled as slow, and nearly left behind. But what others saw as delay, I have come to understand as depth. I was observing, listening, creating meaning, and becoming.

It was my mother’s belief, my younger sister’s insight, and a few kind teachers who helped me begin rewriting my story.

Since 2008, I have worked in schools across Maryland and Colorado as a teacher, coach, and district leader. I now serve as an advocate and consultant supporting multilingual learners and the educators who work with them.

I partner with schools and systems to offer coaching, professional learning, and the design of literacy and language programs that center student identity, build belonging, and move beyond compliance toward meaningful change.

My work is guided by a belief in both heart and strategy. I believe equity work must be sustainable, rooted in community, and responsive to the lived realities of students and educators.

I hold a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, a Principal License, and am completing a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Denver.

Beyond classrooms and offices, I lead from passion and purpose:

• Author of books on exploring motherhood, language, spirituality, and healing
• Founder of MALBA, a nonprofit supporting multilingual girls in Kenya through mentorship, education, and empowerment
• Writer and curator of a personal blog and newsletter on language, leadership, and reflective living

Each project begins with the same question:
What does it mean to create space for those who have been left out of the story?

My vision is to influence how education is imagined, written, and led, not just in schools, but in policy, research, and community spaces. I want to help shape systems that are grounded in equity, informed by lived experience, and responsive to the languages and identities of every learner. Whether through writing, advocacy, or building alongside others, I am committed to creating a more human, just, and joyful future in education.

This site is more than a portfolio. It is a space to connect, reflect, and imagine new ways forward. Whether you are an educator, a leader, a reader, a parent, or a student, you are welcome here. Let’s build something better, together.