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Nanaimo Innovation Academy
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A unique educational program to inspire life-long learning.
CHILD CARE FACULTY
At Nanaimo Innovation Academy, we hire professional, experienced ECE and ECEA teachers that are young at heart, excited about teaching and learning, and are creative with how they engage students. Our teachers imagine the future of our students and work with them through trusting relationships that bring out growth and achievement.
Please read more below about our current teachers and their passions...
If you are interested in joining our team, please email your cover letter and resume to admin@nanaimoinnovation.org
Keely - Executive Director admin@nanaimoinnovation.org
Keely Freeman is the founder and Executive Director of Nanaimo Innovation Academy. Education has long been a passion of hers. Keely is most interested in innovative teaching methods and practices, especially those involving hands-on learning in nature.
After completing her degree in Anthropology at the University of British Columbia in 2004, she taught overseas in Korea, Taiwan and throughout South America. She has visited and lived in over 50 countries and can’t wait to explore more.
When she first moved to Nanaimo in 2015, Keely worked supporting the enrollment efforts at Island Oak High School, a Waldorf School in Duncan, BC. She also supported the fundraising and community involvement efforts at the Nanaimo Women’s Centre (NWC). It is at the NWC that she was able to hone her grant writing skills.
Before she moved to Nanaimo, she was one of the founding staff members who worked alongside Dr. David Strangway to create Quest University Canada, in Squamish BC. During her 14 years at Quest, Keely was responsible for admissions, enrollment, financial aid, and marketing. Prior to Quest, she worked at an experimental high school in Burnaby, BC, a community school in Whistler, BC and with educational groups at the Delta Museum and Archives in Delta, BC.
Throughout her career, she has been on the following boards:
• 2019-2023 Board of Directors for PacificCare- Nanaimo, BC
• 2017-2020 Board of Directors for Cedar Beach Resort- Salt Spring Island, BC
• 2015-2019 Planning Committee Member for the NACAC Vancouver International Universities Fair- Vancouver, BC
• 2012-2016 Board of Directors for Casa Guatemala- Orphanage in Río Dulce, Guatemala
Keely is happy and proud to call Nanaimo her home. She has two children, Bodhi and Zane, who have employed her in her most challenging and rewarding profession yet – motherhood.
After completing her degree in Anthropology at the University of British Columbia in 2004, she taught overseas in Korea, Taiwan and throughout South America. She has visited and lived in over 50 countries and can’t wait to explore more.
When she first moved to Nanaimo in 2015, Keely worked supporting the enrollment efforts at Island Oak High School, a Waldorf School in Duncan, BC. She also supported the fundraising and community involvement efforts at the Nanaimo Women’s Centre (NWC). It is at the NWC that she was able to hone her grant writing skills.
Before she moved to Nanaimo, she was one of the founding staff members who worked alongside Dr. David Strangway to create Quest University Canada, in Squamish BC. During her 14 years at Quest, Keely was responsible for admissions, enrollment, financial aid, and marketing. Prior to Quest, she worked at an experimental high school in Burnaby, BC, a community school in Whistler, BC and with educational groups at the Delta Museum and Archives in Delta, BC.
Throughout her career, she has been on the following boards:
• 2019-2023 Board of Directors for PacificCare- Nanaimo, BC
• 2017-2020 Board of Directors for Cedar Beach Resort- Salt Spring Island, BC
• 2015-2019 Planning Committee Member for the NACAC Vancouver International Universities Fair- Vancouver, BC
• 2012-2016 Board of Directors for Casa Guatemala- Orphanage in Río Dulce, Guatemala
Keely is happy and proud to call Nanaimo her home. She has two children, Bodhi and Zane, who have employed her in her most challenging and rewarding profession yet – motherhood.
Shivangi - Community Nutrition Manager
Nutrition@nanaimoinnovation.org
Hello! My name is Shivangi, and I’m so grateful to be part of the incredible team here at Nanaimo Innovation Academy. I work as both an Early Childhood Educator and the Community Nutrition Manager—a combination that allows me to care for the whole child: their minds, their hearts, and their bellies!
Working with young children is something that brings me true joy. I believe that early childhood is a magical time, and I feel honored to support children as they discover the world, build friendships, and grow into their unique selves. I love creating calm, engaging classroom spaces where each child feels seen, valued, and excited to learn.
In the kitchen, I pour the same care into every meal and snack. Food is such an important part of childhood—not just for nutrition, but for connection, independence, and joy. Whether it’s helping a toddler explore new tastes or involving preschoolers in simple food routines, I love watching kids build confidence and curiosity around what they eat.
At NIA, I’ve found a place where my love for children and passion for healthy, meaningful food come together in the best way. I’m proud to be part of this nurturing community, and I look forward to getting to know you and your little ones as we grow and learn together.
Working with young children is something that brings me true joy. I believe that early childhood is a magical time, and I feel honored to support children as they discover the world, build friendships, and grow into their unique selves. I love creating calm, engaging classroom spaces where each child feels seen, valued, and excited to learn.
In the kitchen, I pour the same care into every meal and snack. Food is such an important part of childhood—not just for nutrition, but for connection, independence, and joy. Whether it’s helping a toddler explore new tastes or involving preschoolers in simple food routines, I love watching kids build confidence and curiosity around what they eat.
At NIA, I’ve found a place where my love for children and passion for healthy, meaningful food come together in the best way. I’m proud to be part of this nurturing community, and I look forward to getting to know you and your little ones as we grow and learn together.
Joana - Pre-K Manager
prek@nanaimoinnovation.org
Hello! My name is Joana Gorjao and I am the Oak Pre-K manager. I’ve had the pleasure of being
an ECE since 2015 and have loved to grow and learn alongside the children ever since! I love to
bring in items and books that spark the children’s curiosity and imagination and lead to in-
depth conversations.
I feel thrilled to work at NIA where a love for the outdoors is so clearly present in all of our
spaces and routines.
In my free time I enjoy learning more about the fauna and flora of Vancouver Island, hiking with
my cat and photographing my adventures.
an ECE since 2015 and have loved to grow and learn alongside the children ever since! I love to
bring in items and books that spark the children’s curiosity and imagination and lead to in-
depth conversations.
I feel thrilled to work at NIA where a love for the outdoors is so clearly present in all of our
spaces and routines.
In my free time I enjoy learning more about the fauna and flora of Vancouver Island, hiking with
my cat and photographing my adventures.
Vanessa- IT Manager it@nanaimoinnovation.org
My name is Vanessa and I have been working at Nanaimo Innovation Academy since June 2022. I graduated from the VIU ECEC program in 2017, but most of my life has been spent working with children. I started babysitting as soon as I could and volunteered to help in Sunday School at a young age. I have also worked as both a behaviour interventionist and as a home caregiver for a child with muscular atrophy. I believe every child is unique and has the right to quality care. I do my best to ensure that every child in my care feels cared for, honoured and respected each and every day. I wholeheartedly love spending my days getting to play and learn alongside children, and having the opportunity to see the world through their eyes is such a wonderful experience.
Misty - Forest Manager forest@nanaimoinnovation.org
This field has really turned out to be my "find something you love to do and you'll never have to work a day in your life." As someone who has been engaged with the outdoors since a young age, the Forest Programs here at NIA are my happy place. After 21 years as a graphic designer, the call to make the world a better place saw me switch careers and move to Vancouver Island with my family. My husband and I have two cats named Barley and Nitro. I enjoy camping, sewing, crafting, roller skating, art, volunteering with Girl Guides of Canada, cheering on the Canucks, walking in the rain, and sitting by a campfire in the snow. I'm also a fan of banana slugs! I'm currently in a course through the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada to become a certified Forest School Practitioner. I look forward to sharing and learning about the world around me with both the "smalls" and the "talls" :)
Lea -Office Manager
info@nanaimoinnovation.org
I grew up in a small town in Northern Alberta. I have lived on the island for 10+ years and have enjoyed many career paths, but working with children and their families is the most rewarding.
I enjoy spending time exploring, volunteering with many programs for youth and the community, most of all time with my son.
I am looking forward to working with and getting to know everyone at NIA
I enjoy spending time exploring, volunteering with many programs for youth and the community, most of all time with my son.
I am looking forward to working with and getting to know everyone at NIA
Alex - ECEA Teacher
Alex has been with N.I.A going on 4 years. After floating between different programs, she is now invested with the Forest Program and Forest Explorers. Her passion for being in nature, and seeking new knowledge has grown alongside the children in these programs. Alex has a background in music, theatre, puppetry, and yoga, and very much enjoys sharing these art forms with the N.I.A community. She is currently an E.C.E.A. who drives the bus, and is working towards her full E.C.E.
Terri - ECE Teacher
Hello, my name is Terri. I feel so fortunate to be part of the NIA team! Originally from England I have now lived on Vancouver Island for the past 18yrs and have loved every minute of it. I recently graduated from Vancouver Island University with my ECE Diploma. Before my journey into early childhood education I volunteered for numerous child focused programs and found my passion lay with advocating for every child to have the education and care they all deserve.
When I’m not working I can be found with my own family, exploring this beautiful island. Me and my children love hiking with our dog Duke, paddle boarding, kayaking, playing board games or just simply enjoying what time we are lucky to have together.
When I’m not working I can be found with my own family, exploring this beautiful island. Me and my children love hiking with our dog Duke, paddle boarding, kayaking, playing board games or just simply enjoying what time we are lucky to have together.
Lisa - ECE Teacher
My name is Lisa, and I am thrilled to be a team member at Nanaimo Innovation Academy! I recently graduated from the North Island College ECE program and plan to continue my education in order to complete a child and youth care degree. Previously I have worked alongside children with diverse abilities as a behavioural support worker. I love to recognize and celebrate each child’s unique spirit and strengths. I value building positive and mutually respectful relationships with the children and families I work with.
I believe every child is a gift and that providing a quality environment for them to play, be curious, explore, problem solve and work in cooperation helps to build their sense of belonging and confidence in their own abilities. Children hold boundless potential and I feel honoured to work in collaboration with them and guide their learning and discovery.
I grew up in the Okanagan and New Zealand and moved to beautiful Nanaimo when I was a teenager. I feel so lucky to call this incredible island home and love to explore its endless opportunities for adventures alongside my husband and our daughter Emerson. I enjoy expressing my creativity through quilting, pottery, painting and gardening.
I believe every child is a gift and that providing a quality environment for them to play, be curious, explore, problem solve and work in cooperation helps to build their sense of belonging and confidence in their own abilities. Children hold boundless potential and I feel honoured to work in collaboration with them and guide their learning and discovery.
I grew up in the Okanagan and New Zealand and moved to beautiful Nanaimo when I was a teenager. I feel so lucky to call this incredible island home and love to explore its endless opportunities for adventures alongside my husband and our daughter Emerson. I enjoy expressing my creativity through quilting, pottery, painting and gardening.
Larissa - ECE Teacher
Hello, I’m Larissa, an ECE at NIA! I attended the ECE diploma program at VIU where I achieved my ECE with infant/toddler and diverse abilities specialties. Through my time at NIA, I have gained much experience in nearly every program NIA has to offer. Throughout my teen years, I spent my time teaching CanSkate through Skate Canada, swimming lessons through RedCross and babysitting. Through these experiences, I was inspired to go into the childcare field. When I’m not at NIA, I enjoy spending my time playing sports. Some of my favourites are baseball, soccer, hockey and figure skating.
Lily - ECE Teacher & Kitchen Assistant
Avneet - ECE Teacher
Hello, My name is Avneet Kaur, I was born and raised in India. In 2019, I moved to Canada to pursue higher studies. I graduated from Northern College of Arts and Technology Pures campus (Toronto, Ontario) with an ECE certification in December 2021. I knew coming into my practicum that I wanted to become an ECE. Because during that time, I realized there is no better feeling in the world than doing something that actually makes a difference in young lives that you enjoy and are proud of. I worked with both Preschool and Infant/toddler age groups for almost 2 years in Ontario. While employed as an RECE in the toddler room with Upper Canada, I also assumed the post of Assistant (designated supervisor). Last year I moved to Vancouver Island with my spouse. I am really excited for all new learnings, and I am grateful that NIA gave me a great opportunity to be a part of their team. I am looking forward to discovering and getting to know everyone.
Katie - ECE Teacher
Hi my name is Katie, I’m so excited to be re-joining the amazing team at Nanaimo Innovation Academy. I entered the childcare field in 2010 as an assistant then went on to obtain my ECE in 2017.
I’ve always had a passion for early learning, learning through play, and celebrating uniqueness. I believe the most effective guidance comes from respect and understanding, while we explore, learn, and grow together!
I was born and raised on this beautiful island. In my spare time I love spending time with my family, being outside, and exploring with my dog Oliver and partner Chris.
I’ve always had a passion for early learning, learning through play, and celebrating uniqueness. I believe the most effective guidance comes from respect and understanding, while we explore, learn, and grow together!
I was born and raised on this beautiful island. In my spare time I love spending time with my family, being outside, and exploring with my dog Oliver and partner Chris.
Junko - ECE Teacher
Hello, my name is Junko. I feel very lucky to work with such amazing educators at NIA. I was born and raised in Kawasaki, Japan and came to Canada as an exchange student in high school. I loved the vast nature of Canada so much that I decided to stay permanently. I obtained an Environmental Science degree from Carleton University in Ottawa but did not pursue a career in the field. Instead, I found my passion for early childhood education when I moved to Vancouver Island in 2016. I see children as capable and competent beings who have amazing curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm for life. They teach me how to be in the present moment and look at ordinary things with fresh eyes everyday. I have a genuine interest in helping children build confidence and self-esteem by providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can explore, pursue their interests, and construct their own learning experience. I want them to love being who they are while respecting and celebrating each other’s uniqueness. I also feel very passionate about helping children cultivate curiosity and excitement in learning about our natural world and develop appreciation and kindness towards all living things.
Nick - ECE Teacher
Hi there, I'm Nick Larsen, an enthusiastic educator and mentor originally from Regina,
Saskatchewan. My wife and I moved to the Island in April of 2020, and we've been
awe-inspired by the area ever since, spending as much time as we can exploring and
camping.
In 2017, I graduated from the University of Regina with a Bachelor's of Education. Since
then, I've had the privilege of working with children in various settings such as
elementary schools, daycares, and preschools. I'm passionate about helping young
people develop confidence and overcome challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem,
and negative self-talk.
After dedicating nearly a decade to studying personal growth, psychology, and human
behavior, I became a consultant with the Proctor Gallagher Institute and started my own
coaching/consulting business. It's been an incredibly rewarding journey, helping
individuals bring out their best selves.
I firmly believe that every child has greatness within them and an infinite flow of creative
potential waiting to be expressed. That's why I'm grateful to be an educator at Nanaimo
Innovation Academy, where I can support preschoolers in their learning, wellbeing and
self-understanding as they embark on this beautiful school called life.
I look forward to getting to know you!
Saskatchewan. My wife and I moved to the Island in April of 2020, and we've been
awe-inspired by the area ever since, spending as much time as we can exploring and
camping.
In 2017, I graduated from the University of Regina with a Bachelor's of Education. Since
then, I've had the privilege of working with children in various settings such as
elementary schools, daycares, and preschools. I'm passionate about helping young
people develop confidence and overcome challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem,
and negative self-talk.
After dedicating nearly a decade to studying personal growth, psychology, and human
behavior, I became a consultant with the Proctor Gallagher Institute and started my own
coaching/consulting business. It's been an incredibly rewarding journey, helping
individuals bring out their best selves.
I firmly believe that every child has greatness within them and an infinite flow of creative
potential waiting to be expressed. That's why I'm grateful to be an educator at Nanaimo
Innovation Academy, where I can support preschoolers in their learning, wellbeing and
self-understanding as they embark on this beautiful school called life.
I look forward to getting to know you!
Nandani - Kitchen Assistant
My name is Nandani Arora, and I am proud to be part of Nanaimo Innovation Academy. I enjoy creating nutritious, delicious meals and snacks that help children stay healthy, happy, and ready to learn. I love bringing creativity, care, and attention to every meal I prepare, making the daycare kitchen a welcoming and safe space for the children.
Outside of work, I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, exploring the outdoors, and finding fun ways to stay active and learn new skills. I believe that patience, positivity, and a nurturing approach—whether in the kitchen or in life—make a lasting difference in children’s well-being, and I am excited to contribute to their growth every day at the academy.
Outside of work, I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, exploring the outdoors, and finding fun ways to stay active and learn new skills. I believe that patience, positivity, and a nurturing approach—whether in the kitchen or in life—make a lasting difference in children’s well-being, and I am excited to contribute to their growth every day at the academy.
Talia - ECE Teacher
Hello!
Here is a little “get-to-know-me”
Looking forwards to meeting everyone!
“My name is Talia, and I have over six years of experience in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field. I completed my education at Camosun College in Victoria, where I developed a strong foundation in child development and early learning practices.
I was born and raised in Cuba in a large, close-knit family, which instilled in me the importance of connection, care, and community from a young age. I’ve wanted to become an ECE ever since I can remember; as I find great purpose in supporting and nurturing the growth of young minds. The relationships I have made along the way will be lifelong.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places, crafting, and spending time with my pet bunny. I’m also a coffee enthusiast and love discovering new local cafés.
I’m excited to be here and look forward to getting to know everyone!”
Here is a little “get-to-know-me”
Looking forwards to meeting everyone!
“My name is Talia, and I have over six years of experience in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) field. I completed my education at Camosun College in Victoria, where I developed a strong foundation in child development and early learning practices.
I was born and raised in Cuba in a large, close-knit family, which instilled in me the importance of connection, care, and community from a young age. I’ve wanted to become an ECE ever since I can remember; as I find great purpose in supporting and nurturing the growth of young minds. The relationships I have made along the way will be lifelong.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places, crafting, and spending time with my pet bunny. I’m also a coffee enthusiast and love discovering new local cafés.
I’m excited to be here and look forward to getting to know everyone!”
Riley- ECE Teacher
Hello! My name is Riley, and I am so excited to be part of the team at Nanaimo Innovation Academy. I grew up in Nanaimo and feel grateful to be working in the community I call home. After completing my Early Childhood Education certification at Sprott Shaw College in 2023, I gained experience working with children ages 3-5 in a private early learning setting. My passion for early childhood education is deeply rooted in my belief that children thrive in a supportive, engaging, and creative environment. As a parent myself, I understand how important it is for children to feel safe, valued, and encouraged to learn and grow at their own pace. I love incorporating movement, music, and visual arts into my teaching to spark curiosity, build confidence, and make learning a joyful experience.
Outside of work, I enjoy painting, baking, camping, and always looking for new ways to be creative. I also love exploring nature, whether it’s hiking local trails, discovering interesting plants and wildlife, or simply spending time outdoors.
I am so happy to be joining the NIA community, and I look forward to building strong relationships with the children, families, and fellow educators. I can’t wait to share in the joy of learning, play, and discovery together!
Outside of work, I enjoy painting, baking, camping, and always looking for new ways to be creative. I also love exploring nature, whether it’s hiking local trails, discovering interesting plants and wildlife, or simply spending time outdoors.
I am so happy to be joining the NIA community, and I look forward to building strong relationships with the children, families, and fellow educators. I can’t wait to share in the joy of learning, play, and discovery together!
Cassandra – ECE Teacher
I'm a proud mom to a curious and energetic 3-year-old! After years in Ontario, I made the move to beautiful BC to embrace a lifestyle closer to nature and the mountains. With over 8 years of experience as an Early Childhood Educator in the school board, I’ve recently discovered a new passion working in the daycare setting, where each day brings joy, laughter, and learning.
I’m passionate about photography, obsessed with LEGO (the more pieces,the better!), and always planning my next travel adventure. I believe children are incredibly resilient—and that resilience is built through play, problem-solving, emotional regulation, social connection, and a strong sense of self-worth. With the loving support of the ‘big people’ in their lives, children can develop the confidence and coping skills they need to navigate life’s ups and downs. It’s a gift to help nurture that growth every day.
I’m passionate about photography, obsessed with LEGO (the more pieces,the better!), and always planning my next travel adventure. I believe children are incredibly resilient—and that resilience is built through play, problem-solving, emotional regulation, social connection, and a strong sense of self-worth. With the loving support of the ‘big people’ in their lives, children can develop the confidence and coping skills they need to navigate life’s ups and downs. It’s a gift to help nurture that growth every day.
Jocelyn – ECE Teacher
Hi my name is Jocelyn , I was born in Richmond and moved to Vancouver island when I was 3 and am now 21 . I started my ECE schooling at Sprott Shaw college and finished with my certificate in 2023. I never knew growing up that this would be my career but I am so glad it is. I am so looking forward to work with all the amazing people at Nanaimo innovation academy!
Some facts : I am one of the youngest of seven siblings, I am very outgoing and energetic, growing up I was very sporty playing most sports such as lacrosse , football, basketball and more. I enjoy travelling and hope I can do more of it one day , having already been to England , Mexico and Alaska. I am a big artist love to Color/ draw and create.
Some facts : I am one of the youngest of seven siblings, I am very outgoing and energetic, growing up I was very sporty playing most sports such as lacrosse , football, basketball and more. I enjoy travelling and hope I can do more of it one day , having already been to England , Mexico and Alaska. I am a big artist love to Color/ draw and create.
Anne - ECE Teacher
Hi! My name is Anne and I have always loved working with children. Before becoming an ECE, I spent 5 years working as a Social Worker in Germany, managing a community centre, including coordinating activities for children and families and bringing the community together. Having experienced Waldorf Schooling in Kindergarten - Grade 6 of my own School life brought me to NIA after having gathered Childcare experience in a couple of different centers. I look forward to getting to know all the children and families at NIA.
Sarah - ECE Teacher
Hi! My Name is Sarah! I have Passion for working with children, especially Infants and Toddlers. In my free time, I love being outside or playing a game of Hockey!
Moninder - Kitchen Assistant
Hi! My name is Moninderjot and I work in the kitchen making food for the kids! I currently hold my ECEA certificate and I am working towards getting my ECE certification soon. I enjoy working with the kids and love cooking:)!
Gaith - Kitchen Assistant
Hello, my name is Ghaith. I am a current student at Vancouver Island University studying for my Bachelor of Science. I enjoy hands-on work, solving problems, and learning new skills. I’m excited to join the NIA team and contribute to a safe, fun, and nourishing environment for children.
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