Irene van der Zande

Irene van der Zande is the Founder and Executive Director of Kidpower Teenpower Fullpower International, a global nonprofit leader dedicated to protecting people of all ages and abilities from bullying, violence, and abuse by empowering them with knowledge and skills. Since, 1989, Kidpower has served over 2.5 million children, teenagers, and adults, including those with special needs, through its positive and practical workshops, extensive free online Library, and publications.

Irene has authored numerous books and articles about child protection, positive communication, and violence prevention, including: The Kidpower Book for Caring Adults: Personal  Safety, Self-Protection, Confidence  and Advocacy for Young People; Bullying – What Adults Need to Know and Do To Keep Kids Safe; the Relationship Safety Handbook for Teens and Adults; and the cartoon-illustrated Kidpower Safety Comics Series and Introductory Curriculum for Educators.

Irene is supporting  PCA by sharing her expertise in child protection practices and policies, including partnering with PCA to create our Protecting Youth Athletes from Sexual Abuse videos and handouts.