2026 YMCA Fitness Leadership Conference: Inspiring Wellness Through Leadership
At YMCA Calgary, we know that creating a welcoming and supportive fitness community starts with people who bring our programs to life. From encouraging members to try something new to helping others work toward their wellness goals, our fitness instructors play an important role in making the YMCA a place where everyone can feel welcome and connected.
On October 24 and 25, we had 160 fitness instructors come together at Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton for our annual Fitness Leadership Conference. Through workshops, fitness sessions and opportunities to connect with fellow instructors, participants came together to learn, share ideas and celebrate the people who make our fitness community stronger.
This year also marked the third year of hosting the YMCA Fitness Leadership Awards ceremony, continuing a tradition of recognizing the dedication of our incredible staff and volunteers who make a meaningful impact on our fitness community.
Celebrating our Fitness Leadership Award Recipients
YMCA Shine On Member's Choice Award
This award recognizes fitness leaders who are nominated by members and exemplifies the YMCA's core values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility through outstanding contributions to their branch and community. Their commitment to these values inspires others with their energy and enthusiasm, fosters positive relationships and creates a culture of inclusivity.
Yarelis Lizardo (Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton)
Kellie Donohue (Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton)
Mohammed Feroz Uddin (Remington YMCA in Quarry Park)
Janet Kurka (Saddletowne YMCA)
Ken Longeway (Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot)
Vandana Vora (Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge)
Pam Wenzel (Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge)
Tania Stan (Shawnessy YMCA)
YMCA Fitness Volunteer Team Spirit Award
This award celebrates fitness volunteers who exhibit a collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication to supporting their teammates. Recipients foster a positive and inclusive environment, creating a strong sense of belonging for all and actively enhance the capabilities of their team through mentorship and support.
Jane Humble (Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton)
Amy Rasmussen (Remington YMCA in Quarry Park)
Vu Thuy Ha (Saddletowne YMCA)
Valerie Flood (Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot)
Alka Goyal (Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge)
Amber Wilford (Shawnessy YMCA)
YMCA Staff Team Spirit Award
This award recognizes staff members who demonstrate collaboration and commitment to branch success. They foster an inclusive environment, encourage and support peers and nurture potential within others.
Jose Bustamante (Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton)
Maryam Norouzi (Remington YMCA in Quarry Park)
Janna Platt (Saddletowne YMCA)
Allyson Hill (Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot)
Auston Oleksiw (Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge)
Jenna Lalonde (Shawnessy YMCA)
YMCA Personal Training Excellence Award
This award celebrates personal trainers who support members as they work toward their individual health and wellness goals. They uphold the highest standards of professionalism and commitment to member success, demonstrate exceptional technical expertise and build lasting relationships that empower clients to achieve their personal fitness goals.
Dominic Nunez (Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton)
Julie Supple (Remington YMCA in Quarry Park)
Vishal Kumar (Saddletowne YMCA)
Dalia Zaya (Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot)
Natalia Fotter (Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge)
Jenna Lalonde (Shawnessy YMCA)
Congratulations to all our award recipients! Thank you for the care, dedication and enthusiasm you bring to your roles and for the positive impact you make across YMCA Calgary.
As we reflect on this year's conference, we celebrate not only the achievements of our award recipients but also the collective efforts of our entire fitness community. Every class led, goal supported and connection made, helps create a stronger, healthier and more connected community.