Katerina is a Psychology and Social Development Studies student at the University of Waterloo whose work sits at the intersection of mental health, equity, and community care. Across nonprofit, public-sector, and campus-based spaces, she is driven by a commitment to building programs and systems that are accessible, responsive, and rooted in the lived experiences of youth and equity-deserving communities.

She currently serves as a Peer Moderator and Bilingual Youth Resource Specialist at Kids Help Phone, supporting youth mental health through crisis-informed digital engagement, resource development and data base management, and peer support. Beyond this role, Katerina has contributed to a wide range of organizations across the nonprofit sector, including sexual violence support services, youth mental health and peer-led advocacy organizations, climate action initiatives, health promotion programs, and emergency response and humanitarian organizations. Her experience spans crisis intervention, student and survivor support, policy and accessibility initiatives, communications, climate and health education, digital outreach, and nonprofit storytelling— reflecting a strong understanding of how different sectors intersect to support community well-being.

Kat is honoured to contribute to the Women’s Nonprofit Network as a member of the Awards Committee, where she is passionate about recognizing and amplifying the leadership of women and gender-diverse changemakers whose impact is too often overlooked. She believes in the power of visibility, storytelling, and collective recognition to strengthen the nonprofit sector and advance equity.

Outside of her work, Katerina finds joy in tending to her ever-growing plant collection, experimenting in the kitchen, staying active through pilates and hikes, and hosting cozy dinners that bring people together.