MEET THE AMAZING
POWER UP TEAM
Kerri Isham, Founder
Hi, I’m Kerri Isham and I am a CHILD SAFETY CHAMPION! I believe that childhood should be a magical time in someone’s life…free of abuse and exploitation. For many children this has never been a reality. I’ve committed my life to changing that. How? By writing books, by offering workshops, and by teaching in public/private schools and in Indigenous communities.
I have always loved working with children and youth. In fact, I have been working with children since I was 11 years old. All of the jobs I have ever had focused solely on children: babysitting, special needs support worker, lifeguard/swimming instructor, day camp leader, teacher and now a certified sexual health educator. Throughout this time, I heard disclosures from children and youth. In my teens and early adult years, I had no idea where my career would take me. These experiences helped me to understand my life’s calling… to do whatever I could to keep children safer in this world. In 2009, I decided to leave a full-time teaching job, my pension and 100 sick days to show up in the best possible way for all children.
Today, I train social workers, early childhood educators, teachers, educational assistants, foster parents, parents, and grandparents raising grandchildren in three main areas: creating a culture of child protection, sexual health education for children & youth with special needs, and information regarding the long-term impacts of pornography. Why? It will take an entire community’s focus to create this change for our most precious resource - our children. Will you take this journey with me?
2021 Nanaimo Business Awards
Coco Madari, Marketing & Sales Manager
Coco Madari (they/she) is a Marketing and Sales Manager with over 15 years of experience in sales and 10 years of experience in marketing strategy. They began their sales journey at just 15 and went on to lead a marketing department by the age of 23.
As a double-certified coach, Coco has supported more than 100 creative entrepreneurs in building thriving businesses. Their work has also consistently involved serving young people, reinforcing their belief that the next generation is our greatest investment.
Outside of their role, Coco is a multidisciplinary artist working as a visual artist, DJ, music producer, dancer, clown, model, and performer.
Lindsay Ford, Administrative Assistant
I first met Kerri back in 2017 when I was publishing my first book. She helped connect me with the local community, and over the years we’ve become friends and collaborators. One project we worked on together is The Things We Can’t Unsee, which Kerri sells in her bookstore. I had the joy of illustrating that book for her. That experience showed me the power of community, creativity, and supporting each other’s passions.
Now, as a BC-certified teacher, I’m thrilled to join the PowerUp Education team. I believe in alternative approaches to learning that go beyond the classroom — education as a tool to help children navigate the world, discover who they are, and empower others to do the same. Being part of a team that focuses on preparing kids for the future, helping them grow with confidence, and supporting their unique strengths feels deeply meaningful to me.
I’m happy to contribute my skills, creativity, and teaching experience to help empower children and ensure they have a brighter, more capable, and confident future.
Our Manifesto
At Power Up Education we focus on collaboration and community. Any long-term, impactful change must involve “the village”, led by knowledgeable guides. Our decades of experience, coupled with evidence-based research, allows us to deliver cutting edge education to kids, parents, caregivers, teachers, and professionals. I’ve dedicated my entire life to the safety and empowerment of children, youth and adults.
I am fuelled by every small success and positive interaction. I am engaged with my local community and with the wider community of sexual health professionals.
When I’m not working, I’m reading about sexual health, taking a course, talking with other professionals and advocating for the delivery of quality sexual health education every step of the way.
Schedule an initial consultation.
Success story
Kerri has been an incredible resource for my family, our school district and local community. She has provided endless amounts of knowledge and support. Kerri is a passionate and knowledgeable facilitator. I feel better prepared as a parent and in my work with post-secondary students because of her teachings and support.
— Kelly Muir, Parent of 4 and VIU Employee
