Ishmael Mustapha

Ishmael Mustapha

Mathematics Educator and Coach

Malvern College Qingdao

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

About Ishmael Mustapha


Ishmael Mustapha is an educator and advocate for youth development, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Born in Treherne, Manitoba, in 1972, Ishmael moved to Winnipeg at a young age and attended schools in the western part of the city. He graduated from John Taylor Collegiate in 1990 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Bachelor of Education in Math Education from the University of Manitoba.

With over 25 years of experience teaching mathematics, Ishmael has taught a wide range of courses, including Calculus, Pre-Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Linear Algebra, and Physics. His teaching career spans various institutions, including Maples Collegiate and the University of Winnipeg Collegiate. Ishmael’s approach to teaching is characterized by his ability to make math authentic, challenging, and relatable to today’s global citizens. He has extensive experience with the UK IGSCE curriculum, as well as the IB and AP math curricula.

In addition to his teaching career, Ishmael has been actively involved in coaching sports, particularly soccer, basketball, and hockey. He has coached his sons’ teams and the University of Winnipeg Collegiate soccer team, leading them to several provincial and state tournaments. His dedication to youth development extends beyond the classroom and the field, having organized and facilitated over 60 youth camps across Manitoba, Ohio, and Indiana from 2003 to 2016.

Ishmael’s professional journey has not been without challenges. In 2018, he faced significant racial discrimination at the University of Winnipeg Collegiate, which ultimately led to his resignation. Despite these obstacles, Ishmael continued to pursue his passion for teaching and has since taught in the UAE and China. His resilience and commitment to equality and justice have been central to his personal and professional growth.

Ishmael’s expertise in mathematics education, combined with his dedication to youth development and advocacy for equity, makes him a respected figure in both local and international educational communities.

Areas of Focus


Mathematics EducationYouth CoachingCalculus & Pre-CalculusIB/AP/IGCSE CurriculaYouth Development Advocacy

Career Background


Malvern College Qingdao

Mathematics Instructor (A Level / IGSCE)

Qingdao, Shandong, China

2020 – 2023

Diyar International Private School

Head of Department (Math and Science / Grades 1 to 5)

Fujairah, UAE

2019 – 2019

University of Winnipeg / Faculty of Education

University Math / Education Instructor

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

2009 – 2018

University of Winnipeg Collegiate

High School Mathematics Instructor

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

2000 – 2018

Maples Collegiate

High School Mathematics Teacher

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

1998 – 2000

Education


Malvern College Qingdao

Qingdao, Shandong, China, September 2020 – August 2023

Mathematics Instructor (A Level / IGSCE)

Diyar International Private School

Fujairah, UAE, January 2019 – December 2019

Head of Department (Math and Science / Grades 1 to 5)

University of Winnipeg / Faculty of Education

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, 2009 – 2018

University Math / Education Instructor

University of Winnipeg Collegiate

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, 2000 – 2018

High School Mathematics Instructor

Maples Collegiate

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, September 1998 – June 2000

High School Mathematics Teacher

Media


Press


Mathematics and Critical Thinking: Teaching Students to Navigate the Age of Information Overload by Ishmael Mustapha

Educator Ishmael Mustapha highlights the need to blend math and critical thinking in teaching. This mix boosts students' problem-solving skills and helps them judge information wisely. By encouraging questions, using real-life examples, promoting group work, and reflecting on learning, teachers can build these key skills in students. This approach prepares them for smart decision-making and active participation in society.

Read the full article ›

Ishmael Mustapha Featured in Exclusive Interview on Inspirery

In an exclusive Inspirery interview, educator and coach Ishmael Mustapha shares his 25-year journey from teaching math in Winnipeg to coaching and teaching internationally in the UAE and China. He emphasizes passion, lifelong learning, and strong student relationships, while reflecting on balancing professional and personal growth.

Read the full article ›

Ishmael Mustapha, the Inspirery Interview

In this interview, mathematics educator Ishmael Mustapha discusses his journey from teaching in Canada to coaching and educating students in the UAE and China. He shares insights into the challenges and rewards of his career, the importance of combining academic and athletic development, and the strategies that have contributed to his success and financial stability.

Read the full article ›

Awards & Recognition


Head Coach of the Year Award (Athlete Institute Basketball Academy)

Recognized for outstanding coaching performance and contributions to the development of the basketball program.

Excellence in Teaching Award (University of Winnipeg)

Awarded for exceptional teaching and dedication to student success in mathematics.

Service Recognition Award (University of Winnipeg)

Honored for long-term commitment and service to the university community.

Boards & Memberships


Head Coach of the Year Award (Athlete Institute Basketball Academy)

Recognized for outstanding coaching performance and contributions to the development of the basketball program.

Excellence in Teaching Award (University of Winnipeg)

Awarded for exceptional teaching and dedication to student success in mathematics.

Service Recognition Award (University of Winnipeg)

Honored for long-term commitment and service to the university community.

Frequently Asked Questions


What does Ishmael Mustapha do?

Ishmael Mustapha is a Mathematics Educator and Coach currently at Malvern College Qingdao. He has over 25 years of experience teaching subjects like Calculus, Pre-Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Linear Algebra, and Physics.

What is Ishmael Mustapha known for?

Ishmael is known for making mathematics authentic and relatable, with extensive experience in the UK IGCSE, IB, and AP curricula. He is also recognized for his youth development work, including coaching soccer, basketball, and hockey and organizing over 60 youth camps across Manitoba, Ohio, and Indiana.

Where is Ishmael Mustapha based?

Ishmael Mustapha is based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

Where did Ishmael Mustapha study?

Ishmael earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Bachelor of Education in Math Education from the University of Manitoba, after graduating from John Taylor Collegiate in 1990.

Who does Ishmael Mustapha work for?

Ishmael Mustapha works for Malvern College Qingdao, where he serves as a Mathematics Instructor.

Last updated February 20, 2026