Meet Our Staff!
Ms. Inayat Unissa Bergum
Founder, Head of School,
Director & Montessori Mentor, International Montessori Academies of Canada & USA
My calling began shortly after obtaining a superb Montessori training in Paris, France in 1962, and it was to unite children from all aspects of life in the United States, Canada, as well as Mexico through the Montessori way of education. All of my educational training has led me to understand that I inherited my passion for children by way of my aunt, Noor Unissa. In 1962, I took part in assisting Tom Laughlin (an actor and director in the movie, Billy Jack) to start the first Montessori in Southern California. It was named the Sophia Montessori of Santa Monica. In 1964, I opened the first Montessori in Costa Mesa, California, known as the Montessori Centre. Throughout the years, I have trained numerous teachers using Montessori methodologies and have opened many Montessori's throughout the Orange County area in Southern California. In 1982, I launched the International Christian Montessori Academies for the expressed purpose of celebrating among children to have them learn to appreciate and to understand the importance of having tolerance of different religions united with an attitude of Love, Harmony and Beauty. My later travels brought me to beautiful Vancouver Island where I founded International Montessori Academies of Canada.
Ms. Carrie
Director, Canada
My name is Carrie Gendreau, I was born in Quebec and moved to Vancouver Island in 1995. I spent 10 years in my first centre with a wonderful mentor. She helped me to improve my skills and gain my credential as an ECE. Since then, I've had the privilege of working with many extraordinary educators in many different types of settings including public school, Strong Start programs, private preschool, and play based daycares. I've held a range of positions including a one-one with children with complex medical needs and challenging behaviours, lead teacher, language teacher, and director. These experiences have helped shape my practice. Along my professional journey, I have sampled many different styles of learning and ways of teaching and have since completed my IT designation as well.
When I was introduced to the Montessori philosophy, it aligned with my values and respect for children’s abilities and I knew I wanted to be a part of a school that was giving every student an opportunity to explore and excel in the classroom. And with a group of teachers who are equally as passionate in creating a learning environment filled with care and room for exploration. I completed my first 0-3 Montessori class and look forward to many more.
Now as the Executive Director of IMACI strive to find teachers with that same passion and dedication to each students learning journey.
Ms. Zarah
Executive Secretary, Cowichan Station
cowichanstation@@intmontessori.ca
Born and raised in the Philippines, Zarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Financial Management. She brings over a decade of professional experience, including three years in Finance Management and seven years in Operations Management. Before relocating to Canada and joining IMAC, she served as an Operations Manager for one of the Philippines' largest shopping mall organizations, where she played a key role in overseeing daily operations, welcoming and supporting new retail brands, fostering strong relationships with merchants and suppliers, coordinating with various departments, and ensuring an exceptional customer experience. Her diverse professional background has provided her with extensive expertise in administration, organizational management, customer service, and operational excellence.
Transitioning into the field of education has been a rewarding and meaningful chapter in Zarah's career. Entering the Montessori environment opened her eyes to the beauty of child-centered learning, where independence, curiosity, and respect for each child's unique pace of development are celebrated. Witnessing how children naturally explore, discover, and grow within a prepared environment has deepened her appreciation for the Montessori philosophy.
As a member of the IMAC family, Zarah is inspired each day by the dedication of the staff, the curiosity of the students, and the trust of the families. She is passionate about creating a welcoming, organized, and supportive environment where children can thrive and families feel genuinely valued. She believes that every interaction, whether behind the scenes or face-to-face is an opportunity to make a positive difference and contribute to a caring and collaborative school community.
Outside of work, Zarah enjoys spending quality time with her family, exploring new places through travel, and creating meaningful memories with friends. She believes that every new experience is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build lasting connections.
Our Lead Teachers
Mr. Christian
Elementary Teacher, Cowichan Station
Originally from Ontario, Christian Lee holds an Honours degree in Classical Studies from Western University and the University of Leeds in the UK. He furthered his education at Althouse Teacher's College at Western University, earning a Bachelor of Education in Primary/Junior Education. He also completed a Master of Education, specializing in Classroom Specialist, at Queen's University.
Christian's teaching career began in Seoul, South Korea, where he taught elementary students at a private school. He then spent nine years at the Canadian International School of Hefei in China with his wife, who is also a teacher. During his tenure at CISH, Christian worked as an IB Primary Years Programme Homeroom Teacher, an Academic Coordinator for Elementary and Kindergarten, Vice-Principal, and ultimately Principal for Elementary and Kindergarten.
His career has also provided him opportunities to attend numerous educational conferences and workshops across Asia, from Singapore to Hong Kong to Japan to India, where he was able to engage with many leading thinkers in international education.
In his spare time, Christian enjoys spending time with his family, writing children’s stories, studying philosophy, traveling, and being outdoors.
Ms. Joy
Toddler, Cobble Hill
I studied Electronic Engineering and Child Studies in Korea. Before becoming an Early Childhood Educator, I worked in electronic product development for over 20 years.
After moving to Canada, I began my career in early childhood education. I hold ECE Infant/Toddler and SN certifications and have over three years of experience working with toddlers and preschool children in Canada. I am currently teaching at IMAC, where I continue to learn about the Montessori approach.
I enjoy helping children learn through nature, play, and everyday experiences. I believe the early years are one of the most important stages in a child's development. I have a special interest in understanding children's behaviour and enjoy observing each child to better understand their individual needs. My goal is to support every child with patience, respect, and encouragement while continuing to learn and grow alongside them.