Our Team

Julie Middleton, PhD.

Co-Founder

Meet Julie Middleton, an engaging educator with a career spanning over 25 years. She’s been everything from an elementary school teacher to a private school principal, and now, she’s proud to be Co-Founder of BeKOA.

Julie is a lifelong learner, with a PhD. in education and various other certificates. Her most recent certification is mindfulness training. Julie is deeply passionate about diversity, inclusion, and belonging and she actively addresses issues of equity in education.

Julie loves the great outdoors and racquet sports. Whether she’s smashing a pickleball, rallying in paddleball, learning squash, hiking scenic trails, or exploring new travel spots, Julie loves doing it all with her family and friends by her side. Julie strives to embody the KOA way every day.

Email me: julie@bekoa.ca

Natalie Gendron

Co-Founder

Meet Natalie Gendron, a seasoned educator with over 25 years nurturing the minds of learners. She’s also a certified Yoga Instructor who specializes in trauma-informed practices for children and teens, and a Creative Mindfulness Practitioner as well.

Natalie has been spreading joy and mindfulness across Toronto and Mississauga with her lively workshops that blend play, nature, movement, and breath work. These workshops aren’t just for kids; adults get to join in the fun too!

When she’s not teaching, creating mindfulness-based content, or leading workshops, Natalie is all about spending quality time with her family and her dog in the great northern outdoors. Living by the principles of KOA, Natalie brings a touch of mindfulness to everything she does.

Email me: natalie@bekoa.ca

Beverley Anderson

Advisor

Beverley Anderson, M.S.W., RSW, CPF, is a seasoned professional in the mental health field, boasting 28 years of counselling experience. As a Registered Social Worker, she specializes in Perinatal Mental Health, providing invaluable support, resources, and strategies through an eclectic approach. Beverley’s expertise extends to Compassionate Bereavement Care, particularly for those grappling with Perinatal Loss. A deep presence and understanding mark her commitment to accompanying clients on their bereavement journeys.

Beverley proudly offers an LGBTQIA2S+ positive, inclusive, and culturally sensitive practice. To learn more about her and her services, visit www.mariposapsychotherapyservices.ca. Her services are not limited to in-person interactions; she is also registered to offer virtual counselling to residents of Ontario

Beverley consults with BeKOA Mindfulness to ensure that our curriculum and programs are trauma-informed. 

Suzanne Molitor, PhD. 

Advisor

Suzanne Molitor is an experienced educational researcher, consultant, and writer with over 30 years of dedicated service in education. She has worked as a secondary school English and ESL teacher, department head, resource teacher, and district instructional coordinator, focusing on teacher induction, leadership, and well-being. Suzanne earned her PhD from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto and has shared her research at numerous conferences and in educational publications. She has also served as a Senior Program Officer at the Ontario College of Teachers, reviewing provincial courses and leading educator teams across Ontario.

Suzanne is passionate about supporting teachers and fostering positive change in education through inquiry, collaboration, and professional development. She is currently advising BeKOA Mindfulness by researching how mindfulness-based SEL programs impact children, staff, and the school community. She is committed to advancing educator well-being, mentorship, and leadership, and she continues to contribute her expertise to projects that inspire meaningful growth and development in educational settings.