Meet the Volunteer - Ivana Novak

Meet the Volunteer - Ivana

This issue we would like to introduce you to Ivana Novak, our Zharity Earth Coordinator.

An engineer with a degree in Physics,  I currently works for a company that provides control systems for large scientific experiments, such as particle accelerators and telescopes. While I love my job, I am interested in many things outside it, particularly the environment, animal welfare, biodiversity and climate.

What personal experiences drew you to charity work?

I have always felt that if we are able to help others, we should. I don't come from a privileged background, but perhaps that has given me a greater appreciation for the privileges that I do have and a strong urge to give back and do good where I can.

How did you get involved with Zharity?

Being a member of the Spooglers (Spouses and Partners of Google employees) community, I was aware of the work Zharity did and wanted to join for a while. I finally did in April 2021 when there was an opportunity to help with the collection of bicycles for the local refugees. I noticed there was a "branch" of Zharity which seemed to be inactive at the time but was of great interest to me: Zharity Earth. I became involved in the efforts to revive it and we have been organizing events ever since. 

What projects are you working on right now?

I always help with Collections and serve as one of the drop off points. With Zharity Earth, we are currently organizing an online event "The Impact behind Zero Waste". I am also organizing another Zero Waste Shopping tour which will happen on April 30.