Nitara Sara Renji
Studio Assistant + Camp Supervisor
Nitara is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at uOttawa. She has over three years of experience working with children in various childcare settings as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE).
Nitara finds her zeal in watching children explore the world around them, discover new things, and grow in confidence. She truly believes that children are capable of amazing things when given the opportunity to learn, create, and express themselves.
Alexa Rigakis
Youth Energy Exchange Program (EEP) Volunteer
Alexa comes to ZEAL weekly in the EEP program to learn about running a pottery studio. She could be making ornaments for non-profits, reclaiming clay, or helping with special events. On the potter's wheel, she would like to improve her skills to make taller pots.
Alexa finds her zeal by achieving a challenge, spending time with friends (furry ones, too), and adventuring with family.
Jarrod Dijkema
Maintenance Manager
Jarrod (Kate's husband) is in the process of transforming the studio; he's made the outbuilding structurally sound, stapled bed sheets up for temporary walls, and has been instrumental in the ZEAL Pottery Shed project. You might see him managing the water hoses, boxes of clay, or helping us wax or sand the bottoms of pots.
Jarrod is trying to find his zeal with the slab roller!
Jessica Gaulin
Interior Decorator
Jessica has been designing the ZEAL Pottery Shed since March 2026. It's big reveal was on September 19, 2026. The project isn't done yet, though. The next phase is figuring out how the space will work for the winter months. Follow Jessica @hazelnuthomeinteriors on Instagram.
Jessica finds her zeal by creating cohesive, functional spaces that feel like home.
Kate McNamara
Owner + Creator
Kate started this creative studio in 2023 and has big plans to keep expanding its offerings! She's got a professional background in marketing and communications, and is a community-taught photographer and potter.
Kate finds her zeal creating art, experiences, and memories for herself and others.