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.
Zwena Gray (she/her/they/them)
Program Assistant
Kiana Opper (she/her)
Programs & Events Coordinator
Hi! My name is Kiana (she/her) and I am the Program & Events Coordinator as well as the TEACH Outside the Box Social Justice Certificate Program Coordinator. I have been a member of the Peterborough community since 2019 when I moved to Canada. I graduated from Oregon State University (go beavs!) with an Honors Bachelor of Science (H.B.S.) in Public Health with a focus on Health Promotion & Health Behavior and an H.B.S. in Human Development & Family Science.
Throughout my work, I’ve always been passionate about empowering creative and ambitious learners through open conversation. I believe that as we open ourselves to listening to diverse perspectives our lives and learning will be enriched greatly.
In my free time, you will surely find me at my sewing machine, serving in my church’s youth program or hanging out with my family.
If you want to learn more about the KWIC’s Programs & Events, including TEACH e-mail me at: kiana@kwic.info and teachpeterborough@gmail.com
Paula Torres -Izarnotegui (she/her)
Trent Oxfam Coordinator
Hello! My name is Paula (she/her) and I'm the Program Coordinator for the Trent University Oxfam Chapter. I’m currently in my 4th year studying Psychology, and I’ve been a part of the Trent Oxfam team for the past two years.
When I moved to Canada from Peru in 2014, I got to experience firsthand the impact a welcoming, passionate community can have on making people feel seen and supported. This inspired me to join the fight for social justice as well as help work towards creating more spaces where anyone can feel heard and be empowered to take action. As the coordinator for Trent’s Oxfam chapter, I organize initiatives to raise awareness on issues like gender justice, climate justice, and food and housing insecurity. Our program has included free meals, clothing swaps, exam care packages, and distributing free period products across campus.
If you want to learn more about or even get involved with Trent Oxfam, email trentoxfam@gmail.com or find us on Instagram at @trentoxfam!
Hi there! My name is Abi, and I’m thrilled to be returning for a second year as the Sustainable Trent Coordinator at KWIC. I’m currently in my third year at Trent University, majoring in Water Science with minors in Environmental Resource Science and Biology. I’m deeply passionate about environmental sustainability and feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate, educate, and inspire others to live more eco-consciously. Whether it’s organizing impactful events or sharing knowledge, I’m committed to making a positive difference through KWIC’s outreach and programming. Outside of work, you’ll often find me outdoors—hiking,
swimming, and soaking in the beauty of nature. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about KWIC’s programs and outreach initiatives, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’d love to connect!
If you're interested in getting involved, email: sustainabletrentu@gmail.com or find us on Facebook and Instagram @sustainabletrent!
Updated: October 2025