Karina Torres
Founding Board Member & Head of School
Head of School & Founder of Intiwasi
Language is not just a tool for communication — it's a bridge for understanding, empathy, and global citizenship.
— Karina Torres
Meet Karina
Discover her story, her passion for bilingual education, and the vision behind Intiwasi
My Story — Karina Torres
Founder & Head of School, Intiwasi
A life dedicated to education
The Origins
Karina was born in San Bernardino, California, to Peruvian parents. She grew up in Lima, Peru, where she attended an English immersion school — an experience that sparked her lifelong passion for bilingual education and the transformative power of language.
Academic Background
She earned a degree in Anthropological Archaeology and Latin American Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. Her dream of becoming an archaeologist led her to travel throughout Central and South America, exploring diverse cultures and deepening her appreciation for human connection.
The Calling to Education
In 2008, Karina returned to Lima, where she began teaching English to children and adults. It was through this work that she discovered her true calling — education. She pursued a master's in Applied Linguistics and taught in several bilingual programs.
Career Journey
Returned to Lima. Began teaching English and discovered her calling in education.
Returned to California. ESL instructor at UC Bakersfield and community programs.
Relocated to Los Angeles. Tutoring, homeschooling, and enrichment programs.
Co-founded Kallpachay, a Spanish immersion program and summer camp.
Established Yachaywasi, a Spanish immersion preschool, and OLA Spanish Immersion. Completed certifications at UCLA Extension and MIT.
Founded Intiwasi, a nonprofit Spanish immersion and IB-inspired elementary school dedicated to making high-quality bilingual education accessible to all families.
Bilingual Education
Language is a window to the world. Two languages, a broader mind.
Inclusion
Every child deserves access to high-quality education, regardless of background.
Global Citizenship
Empathetic citizens who connect cultures and build bridges.
Education & Certifications
UT Austin
Anthropological Archaeology & Latin American Studies
Master's Degree
Applied Linguistics — Second Language Instruction
UCLA Extension
Advanced Early Childhood Education Certification
MIT
Launching Innovations in Schools
Meet the Intiwasi Team
Every member of our team shares the vision of accessible, inclusive, and transformative bilingual education.
Karina Torres
Head of School & Founder
Founder of Intiwasi. Passionate about bilingual education and inclusion.
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