Spring and fall bring our new science talk series to the Olympic Sculpture Park. Each session invites leading researchers to illuminate the natural world through dynamic conversations set against the park’s inspiring collection of sculpture and landscapes.
Finding Diversity in Environmental Restoration
Join Kenza Oualim and Sophia Netterfield from
EarthCorps to learn how diversity is a keystone in both environmental restoration and community work. In this family-friendly and interactive talk, you'll touch animal artifacts and play a game (or two) while reflecting on diversity.
Through their work at EarthCorps, a Seattle-based non-profit that envisions a world where all people and nature thrive together, Kenza and Sophia have seen how environmental factors affect all communities. In parallel with the way an ecosystem cannot thrive when threatened by monoculture, environmentalism becomes rigid and brittle without the diversity of people and thought.
About
Kenza Oualim, Community and Volunteer Team Lead, EarthCorps
Kenza has a background in marine science and environmental policy. Originally from New Jersey, she earned her B.S. in Marine Sciences and Biological Oceanography from Rutgers University and completed a Master’s at the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs. Kenza specializes in community‑centered approaches to climate resilience, blending science, policy, and stakeholder engagement. She views her role as a bridge, bringing science to the public. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor adventures around Seattle, creative hobbies, gaming, and time with her loved ones and her cat, Loki.
Sophia Netterfield, Community and Volunteer Coordinator, EarthCorps
In her current role, Sophia Netterfield connects people with places. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she built a diverse background working within the nonprofit sector. Her experience includes coordinating volunteers with the Wildlife Rescue Association of British Columbia and delivering environmental education programs as an Educator with Ocean Wise. In the summer of 2025, Sophia relocated from Metro Vancouver to the Greater Seattle Area with her husband (a handsome engineer) and pet snake (Mr. Crimson). Driven by curiosity about people and our relationship with the natural world, she is passionate about supporting community‑led efforts that strengthen climate resilience.