JW Windland

JW Windland is a comparative mythologist and founder of the Encounter World Religions Centre, an internationally recognized educational organization designated as a "Gift Of Service To The World" by the Parliament of World Religions.

JW has more than forty years experience in the study, teaching and first-hand encounter of world religions. In addition to an academic background in religious studies, JW has genuine friendships with practitioners, joins in their rituals and introduces thousands of people to the distilled wisdom of diverse communities in the North American mosaic.

JW lectures internationally to universities, religious groups, and service and professional organizations.

Brian Carwana

Brian left a business career to pursue an interest in the study of religions. Through Encounter Brian has acquired a practical education in various traditions by listening to religious leaders, observing worship and visiting houses of worship. In addition to this practical experience, he has pursued academic studies having completed a Masters in Religion and Culture from Wilfrid Laurier University and currently working on a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto in the field of religion and politics.

Religion remains for Brian one of the most interesting facets of life whether trying to understand global politics, social protest or personal life.

Ryan Gingerich

Ryan Gingerich is a teacher with the Waterloo Region District School Board and is a lecturer for Encounter's Visiting Schools Program. At the University of Waterloo, World Religions, Inter-religious dialogue and Peace Studies emerged as important and formative areas of his study, and now charges his hope to see peace become practice.

It is his aspiration to convey to students that the Study of Religion is exciting and important, that it is the study of humanity and history and the diversity within that can build, and hopefully repair, relationships in our global community.

Kelly Wagner

Kelly is a part-time lecturer for Encounter’s Visiting Schools Program. She holds an Honours degree in Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University and is a business woman and entrepreneur by profession.

This fascination brought Kelly to Toronto in 2007 as a participant in Encounter’s “Exploring World Religions” program and provided her with an opportunity to become involved with Encounter’s school program. Kelly enjoys sharing her knowledge of the worlds’ diverse paths and traditions with students and it is her goal to help foster a sincere appreciation of the beautiful tapestry of our world.