Margaret M. Zou (she/her)
Executive Director
Hello, my name is Margaret and I am the Executive Director at KWIC. I grew up at the intersection of different cultures, which has fueled my passion for exploring issues related to the environment, health, and justice. I hold a Bachelor of Science with Honors (BScH) in Life Sciences from Queen's University (Canada) and a Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Management and Assessment from the University of Liverpool. I also hold a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), specializing in Environmental Health. My research focused on the impacts of environmental change on health, with a particular emphasis on climate change.
I believe in supporting community-led initiatives, creating safe spaces for youth engagement, and
mobilizing local communities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I began my career in the nonprofit sector in 2016, starting with the World Resources Institute (WRI), the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS), and most recently, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE). During this time, I worked on various projects and programs aimed at protecting the environment both globally and across Canada. In my spare time, I volunteer with Global Health Mentorships (GHMe), a nonprofit dedicated to providing equitable and accessible mentoring worldwide. I also enjoy traveling, eating good food, and basking in the sunshine.
I am excited to continue the vital work of connecting youth with global issues through local
initiatives while strengthening community engagement and fostering activism. You can reach me
at margaret@kwic.info.
Bethan Bates (she/her)
KWIC Administration Coordinator - Finances and Resource Development
Siwmae! My name is Bethan and I am the Administration Coordinator for Resource Development and Finances here at KWIC.
I am an immigrant to Canada having come initially on an exchange year from Prifysol Abertawe (Swansea University). Since graduating with a BA in English Literature and History in 2022 I have been working in the non-profit sector. I was drawn to KWIC due to my interest in social justice and intersectionality and have previously been involved on the Board of Directors and Programming Committee. I am passionate about education and how education can look beyond the classroom and into the community. In my spare time I enjoy reading (especially romance fiction), watching hockey, and cuddling with my cat Smokey.
You can reach me at bethan@kwic.info or finance@kwic.info!
Sarah Forrest (she/her)
KWIC Program and Outreach Coordinator
Aaniin, hello! I’m Sarah Forrest (she/her), the Program and Outreach Coordinator at KWIC. I’m thrilled to enhance KWIC’s role in fostering a sense of common unity around global issues through local initiatives, including discussions, workshops, and partnerships.
With a background in education, administration, and community engagement, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with diverse individuals from around the globe. These experiences have shown me the profound impact of community and how safe, welcoming spaces can cultivate a genuine sense of belonging for everyone.
I hold a Food and Beverage Management diploma from The School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at George Brown College, a BAH in Indigenous Studies from Trent University, and am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies at the Frost Centre, Trent University.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about KWIC’s programs and outreach, please feel free to reach out to me at: sarah@kwic.info.
I look forward to connecting with you!
Chloé Lapensée (she/her)
Resource Centre Facilitator
Hi there! My name is Chloé, and I am the Resource Centre Facilitator at KWIC. I'm in my fourth year of Global Development and Environmental Studies at Trent University. I am passionate about environmental and social justice and am grateful that I have the opportunity to explore its numerous intersections through my work at KWIC. I enjoy being outdoors and exploring new hiking trails in my spare time!
I am thankful to be part of this team for a third year and excited to continue our work on global issues here in our community. If you have any questions or want to learn more about our KWIC E.Y.E Centre (ESC B101 at Trent University), please email me at chloe@kwic.info.
Mauricio Interiano (he/him)
TEACH Outside the Box Program Coordinator
Hi everyone! My name is Mauricio (he/him) and I am the TEACH Outside the Box Social Justice Certificate Program Coordinator. Originally from Honduras, I immigrated to Canada at the age of 16. I hold a Bachelor's degree in International Development and Sociology from Trent University, as well as a Master's degree in International Development with a specialization in Migration from the Graduate Institute of Geneva in Switzerland.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have been deeply committed to community development, research, communications, and outreach. With a diverse range of experiences, I am eager to apply my skills and knowledge as the TEACH Program Coordinator.
Outside of my professional endeavors, I find joy in simple pleasures. I enjoy coffee, cooking, reading, walking, and traveling with my friends and family. If you want to learn more about the TEACH Program, e-mail teachpeterborough@gmail.com.
Trent Oxfam Coordinator
Sustainable Trent Coordinator
Madison Laurin (she/her)
Bookkeeper: Sustainable Trent, Trent Oxfam, TRACKS
Hi there! My name is Madison (she/her) and I am a settler-Canadian of British, French, Hungarian and
German descent living in Nogojiwanong. I am grateful to have lived and learned here for over three years,
during which time I have worked with TRACKS Youth Program and KWIC in various capacities. Currently,
I am the bookkeeper for TRACKS and two of the levy groups supported by KWIC, Sustainable Trent and
Trent Oxfam. I pursue this work on the side of a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Community
Development from the University of Toronto.
Updated: October 2024