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Kristen Perry
Project Manager of Urban Agriculture and Food at Club populaire de consommateurs de Pointe-St-Charles
Professional Background
Kristen Perry has cultivated a profound passion for environmental justice and community building, integrating these values into all aspects of her professional and personal life. With a solid foundation in Environmental Science, Kristen is not just an advocate for sustainable practices but also a dedicated practitioner actively engaged in community-focused initiatives. Currently, she serves as the Project Manager for Urban Agriculture and Food at Le Club populaire des consommateurs de Pointe-Saint-Charles, where she manages collective gardens aimed at enhancing food security. In this role, Kristen employs popular education methods to foster social connectivity, increase community autonomy, and ensure access to fresh produce. Her commitment to supporting others in their endeavors is evident as she continues to inspire those around her to engage in the pursuit of environmental justice.
Kristen's extensive experience in organizing has been instrumental in shaping her career. Over the years, she has planned campaign strategies and tactics, advocated for social justice, and developed structures and strategies for community groups. Kristen’s efforts are not limited to professional settings; she has dedicated time and energy to creating community spaces that encourage exchange and collaboration, showcasing her belief in the power of collective action.
In addition to her professional commitments, Kristen emphasizes the importance of nurturing spaces that foster connection, healing, and growth. She actively seeks opportunities to mobilize resources in support of social movements, particularly those led by Black and Indigenous people and people of colour (BIPOC). This dedication to inclusivity and equity is a guiding principle in all her endeavors.
Education and Achievements
Kristen Perry’s educational journey equips her with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges posed by climate change and food insecurity. She graduated from Midland Secondary School, where she earned her Ontario Secondary School Diploma, setting the groundwork for her future studies. Kristen then pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science with a focus on Renewable Resource Management, complemented by a minor in Management, from the prestigious McGill University. This academic background not only deepened her understanding of environmental issues but also honed her leadership and management skills, preparing her for a career dedicated to fostering sustainable practices and community resilience.
Throughout her career, Kristen has held a variety of roles that highlight her commitment to environmental advocacy and community engagement. As the former Coordinator of Mobilization and Associative Development at the Association for the Voice of Education in Quebec, she played a pivotal role in enhancing educational opportunities and promoting equitable access to resources for marginalized communities. Her earlier positions, including as a Garden Installer at Urban Seedling and an Environment Commissioner at the Students' Society of McGill University, provided Kristen with valuable hands-on experience that would shape her approach to urban agriculture and community organizing. Additionally, she has engaged with the Georgian Bay Rowing Club as both a Club Manager and an Assistant Club Manager, showcasing her versatility and ability to lead in diverse environments.
Kristen’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to create and manage Kristen's Kreations, where she expressed her artistic talents as a jewellery artist and vendor. This experience not only nurtured her creative skills but also underscored her belief in the importance of supporting local economies through small businesses and artisan work. Moreover, her time as a Garden and Market Intern at Karma Project allowed her to develop practical skills in sustainable gardening and food distribution, amplifying her dedication to food security.
Achievements
Kristen Perry’s career is marked by numerous achievements that speak to her commitment to environmental justice and community development. Her leadership in managing collective gardens at Le Club populaire des consommateurs de Pointe-Saint-Charles has established a model for community-driven food security initiatives, demonstrating the impactful intersection of education, environmental sustainability, and social connection. Through her innovative use of popular education, Kristen has successfully engaged community members, empowering them to take charge of their food systems and advocate for greater access to healthy, sustainable produce.
Moreover, her role as Coordinator of Mobilization and Associative Development at the Association for the Voice of Education in Quebec has solidified her reputation as a leader in educational equity. By developing strategies that advocate for underserved populations, Kristen has helped create pathways for success and inclusivity in educational settings. This work resonates strongly with her personal vision of fostering a more equitable society.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kristen's passion for nurturing healing and growth in her community reflects her holistic approach to advocacy. By prioritizing resources for BIPOC-led movements and initiatives, she is actively contributing to dismantling systemic inequalities and promoting social justice.
Kristen Perry exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and compassion. Her diverse career path serves as an inspiration to those looking to make a positive impact in their communities and underscores the importance of environmental stewardship, social activism, and community resilience. As she moves forward in her career, the impact of her work will undoubtedly continue to ripple through her community and beyond.