Change Makers

Miriam Purnhauser (she/her), Nami Dwyer (she/her),  Arianna Brown (she/her), Olivia Martland (she/her), Hannah Baron (she/they), Isis Burnett (she/her), Cora White (she/her), & Abbey Konik (she/her)

The Future Leaders Youth Council is a dedicated group of emerging leaders in the Bow Valley, committed to environmental action. Their focus for 2024 is on educating the community about sustainable lifestyle tips through tangible steps aimed at improving both quality of life and the planet’s well-being. At the heart of their leadership style is unwavering kindness and compassion towards others, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. 

This group of brave, collaborative, and compassionate young folks have contagious optimism. These youth are concerned for the future, and while they are outraged by ongoing social and environmental injustices, they always rise to the occasion, tirelessly advocate for change, confronting challenges, and addressing feelings of eco-anxiety. The female and non-binary youth of the FLYC exemplify a profound commitment to serving the community through their active involvement in various environmental initiatives and projects. 

Each of the FLYC members has participated in over a dozen learning and action projects. Not only do the youth learn about topics such as climate change, pollution, human-wildlife coexistence and sustainable energy, they apply this education to tangible action projects in their communities. This group’s ability to collaborate effectively with diverse groups and individuals fosters unity and empowers others to contribute their unique perspectives. Together this group has organized and lead 15 community projects including “Trash Talks”, an educational radio segment, the Rain Barrel Project, where they created and auctioned rain barrels locally, and the “Not the End of the World” event which brought together over 20 youth from the Bow Valley to connect, learn and celebrate Earth through workshops, dinner, open mic and a dance! 

Hannah radiates creativity, kindness, and inclusivity, enriching the Bow Valley community through her unwavering commitment to fostering spaces of belonging and creativity for all. As the founder of the “Art Coven,” a monthly art club held in her own home, Hannah creates a sanctuary where individuals from diverse backgrounds can express themselves freely and build supportive connections. Through initiatives like this, she catalyzes personal growth and community flourishing, embodying the spirit of generosity and passion that drives her work. 

Hannah’s impact extends across various dimensions of community enhancement. She has taught ASL (sign language) on social media, a project that fosters a welcoming, inclusive and accessible community, and regularly volunteers for organizations and programs in town, including artsPlace, Canmore Folk Festival, and the Bow Valley Connections program – where she works with children and teenagers with special needs and disabilities. Hannah is a key member of the Heart Burn committee, which is an annual event at artsplace that showcases local art, musicians, and performers.  

Hannah’s dedication to uplifting marginalized voices, including those of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and women/femmes, is evident in projects like the Beau Valley Circus, where performers of all backgrounds and abilities are welcomed and celebrated. Through her creative endeavors and volunteerism, Hannah continually demonstrates her commitment to building a more inclusive, accessible, and vibrant Bow Valley community where everyone is welcomed and celebrated.

Jessica embodies the qualities of a true leader, demonstrating remarkable passion, and kindness in her dedication to bettering the community. As the Executive Director of the Homelessness Society of the Bow Valley (HSBV), Jessica has taken on the challenge with determination and adaptability, building impactful relationships and fostering a deeper understanding of homelessness in our community. 

Beyond her role with HSBV, Jessica’s passion for community shines through her involvement in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those facing food and environmental insecurity such as the Bow Valley Food Alliance and the Biosphere Institute. Her natural drive to make a difference inspires those around her, fostering a culture of empowerment and growth within her team. Jessica’s kindness and mentorship have created a supportive environment where individuals can thrive, emphasizing the value of each person’s unique strengths and contributions. Through her commitment to service and inclusivity, Jessica is making meaningful strides towards creating a safer, more equitable community for all. 

Kiara is a passionate advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and safety, dedicating herself to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. As a forward-thinking individual, she not only addresses present challenges but also plans for a more inclusive future. Kiara’s leadership is self-driven, evident in her initiative to fill gaps in her community, whether it’s outdated education on gender and sexuality or the absence of drama classes in her school. Through her role in the Canmore Collegiate’s Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA), Kiara has been a beacon of support and advocacy for queer and gender-diverse youth, leading various initiatives to ensure their voices are heard and their needs met. 

In her commitment to fostering inclusivity, Kiara rewrote and delivered updated educational presentations on gender and sexuality to her school, challenging stereotypes and promoting empathy. Beyond her school, Kiara extends her advocacy to the broader community through her involvement in the Canmore Youth Council, organizing events and discussions to raise awareness and promote inclusive sexual education. Her tireless efforts, from advocating for the pride flag raising to co-creating a drama club, leave a lasting impact on women and gender-diverse individuals by creating platforms for expression, fostering mental well-being, and paving the way for systemic change. Kiara’s dedication to empowering others and fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding exemplifies her remarkable leadership and community engagement. 

Makaylah is a community-minded and compassionate leader, inspired by their lived experience and clear vision for a better future. From co-creating a Community Cares Framework as part of the Moving Mountains Initiative to leveraging Frankie D’s Donuts as a platform for social change, Makaylah is continuously seeking new avenues to effect positive change. Their strong commitment to building a more open, inclusive, and vibrant community is evident in their fearless advocacy and invitation to engage with a positive vision for collective well-being. 

Drawing from personal experiences of trauma and violence, Makaylah is determined to amplify the voices of those who feel unheard. Through their work and volunteerism, they strive to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness while fostering a sense of belonging in the community. Since founding Frankie D’s Donuts in 2020, Makaylah has continually given back to the community, using their business not only as a means of reducing loneliness but also as a platform for open conversations around mental health. Through initiatives like “Donuts and Conversations” and “Together Sundays” online check-ins, Makaylah prioritizes mental health and works tirelessly to create environments of empathy and connection. 

Makaylah’s contributions to projects like the Community Cares Framework exemplify their dedication to empathy-driven change. By advocating for marginalized groups, including women and gender diverse folks, through organizations like Canmore Pride and Bow Valley Safer Spaces, they continue to pave the way for a more inclusive community. Makaylah’s multifaceted approach to advocacy, business, and community engagement makes them a true leader, inspiring others to embrace authenticity, compassion, and social responsibility in their own endeavours. 

Avni Soma is a relentless advocate for justice and equity in the Bow Valley, driven by an unwavering commitment to fostering community well-being. Avni brings people along with her. She exemplifies the qualities of an innovator and a community champion, and she knows how to build change-inducing projects from the ground up, slow and steady, until they become a staple of the community. Her leadership shines through endeavors like the Canmore Community Garden, which she co-founded in 2011, not only to cultivate food but also to cultivate knowledge and connection among residents.  

At the heart of Avni’s work lies her dedication to food justice and decolonization. She spearheads projects like the hot lunch school food program at École Notre-Dame des Monts, integrating a values-based procurement model and has hired an Indigenous chef to nurture not just bodies but cultural heritage. Her involvement in organizations like the Bow Valley Food Alliance, Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council, Alberta Food Matters, and the Coalition for Healthy School Food amplifies her impact, advocating tirelessly for systemic change toward a more just food system. 

Avni’s influence extends far beyond the Bow Valley as she engages in a new research project exploring innovative approaches to non-profit governance that confront racism, colonialism, and neoliberalism. Avni is a doer, paving the way for a future guided by equity, inclusion, and genuine community connection. Through work and volunteerism, she demonstrates how all of us can live out our values and create change that permeates locally, provincially, and beyond.

Bridget is an Artistic Business Innovator, shaping the cultural landscape of the Bow Valley with her dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision. For the past 13 years, Bridget has curated thriving galleries in Canmore and Banff, serving as a beacon for local artists and enthusiasts alike. Her commitment to fostering artistic expression extends beyond the traditional gallery space, as she pioneers live theater experiences such as the enduringly popular “A Christmas Carol” collaboration with Fairmont Banff Springs, and the innovative MICRO theatre on Main Street, Canmore. 

As the creative director of three major artistic attractions in Banff, including the Art In Nature Trail and Santa’s Celebration of Lights, Bridget demonstrates her dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of the community. Her tireless efforts to promote inclusivity and celebrate diversity shine through in her commitment to supporting LGBTQ2S+ initiatives and Indigenous arts. Bridget’s philanthropic endeavors, including significant donations of public art to the Canmore Emergency Department, reflect her deeply ingrained values of community and compassion. Through her leadership, Bridget has not only transformed the artistic landscape of the Bow Valley but also paved the way for countless women, embodying the power of creativity, resilience, and philanthropy. 

Hannah radiates creativity, kindness, and inclusivity, enriching the Bow Valley community through her unwavering commitment to fostering spaces of belonging and creativity for all. As the founder of the “Art Coven,” a monthly art club held in her own home, Hannah creates a sanctuary where individuals from diverse backgrounds can express themselves freely and build supportive connections. Through initiatives like this, she catalyzes personal growth and community flourishing, embodying the spirit of generosity and passion that drives her work. 

Hannah’s impact extends across various dimensions of community enhancement. She has taught ASL (sign language) on social media, a project that fosters a welcoming, inclusive and accessible community, and regularly volunteers for organizations and programs in town, including artsPlace, Canmore Folk Festival, and the Bow Valley Connections program – where she works with children and teenagers with special needs and disabilities. Hannah is a key member of the Heart Burn committee, which is an annual event at artsplace that showcases local art, musicians, and performers.  

Hannah’s dedication to uplifting marginalized voices, including those of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and women/femmes, is evident in projects like the Beau Valley Circus, where performers of all backgrounds and abilities are welcomed and celebrated. Through her creative endeavors and volunteerism, Hannah continually demonstrates her commitment to building a more inclusive, accessible, and vibrant Bow Valley community where everyone is welcomed and celebrated.

Lucie is passionate about her community, consistently seeking opportunities to connect and uplift those around her to make Canmore a better place. Through her business ventures, Lucie provides a space for entrepreneurs, local workers, and organizations to thrive, fostering creativity, inspiration, and connection. 

As the Founder of CanMore Together, Lucie is dedicated to providing affordable space and resources to locals, local businesses, and non-profits, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder community engagement and collaboration. CanMore together is also kid friendly, offering a kid’s corner to help new parents who are juggling work and parenthood. Her initiatives, such as the Share Your Gift program and the CommUnity Fund, demonstrate her commitment to supporting others and fostering a culture of generosity within the community. 

Lucie’s approaches every interaction with honesty, integrity, and sincerity. Her focus on empowering women and promoting mindfulness, healing, and mental wellness inspires others to come together to create a supportive and inclusive Bow Valley community. 

Makaylah is a community-minded and compassionate leader, inspired by their lived experience and clear vision for a better future. From co-creating a Community Cares Framework as part of the Moving Mountains Initiative to leveraging Frankie D’s Donuts as a platform for social change, Makaylah is continuously seeking new avenues to effect positive change. Their strong commitment to building a more open, inclusive, and vibrant community is evident in their fearless advocacy and invitation to engage with a positive vision for collective well-being. 

Drawing from personal experiences of trauma and violence, Makaylah is determined to amplify the voices of those who feel unheard. Through their work and volunteerism, they strive to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness while fostering a sense of belonging in the community. Since founding Frankie D’s Donuts in 2020, Makaylah has continually given back to the community, using their business not only as a means of reducing loneliness but also as a platform for open conversations around mental health. Through initiatives like “Donuts and Conversations” and “Together Sundays” online check-ins, Makaylah prioritizes mental health and works tirelessly to create environments of empathy and connection. 

Makaylah’s contributions to projects like the Community Cares Framework exemplify their dedication to empathy-driven change. By advocating for marginalized groups, including women and gender diverse folks, through organizations like Canmore Pride and Bow Valley Safer Spaces, they continue to pave the way for a more inclusive community. Makaylah’s multifaceted approach to advocacy, business, and community engagement makes them a true leader, inspiring others to embrace authenticity, compassion, and social responsibility in their own endeavours. 

Brittany Laidman (she/her), Karli Fleury (she/her), and Penny Lawless (she/her)

Brittany, Karli, and Penny are the visionary founders of the Rundle Women’s Hockey League (RWHL), an organization with a goal of fostering inclusivity and community in hockey. What began as a recognition of the need for more opportunities for women to play hockey has blossomed into a thriving league that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels.  

The impact of the RWHL extends far beyond the ice rink, with Brittany, Karli, and Penny playing pivotal roles in cultivating a genuine sense of camaraderie and friendship among league members. Their efforts have created a safe and welcoming space where players can not only enjoy the sport they love but also forge lasting connections and experience personal growth. Through their dedication to the league’s success, including volunteer work, logistical coordination, and advocacy, they have inspired a sense of empowerment and belonging within the community. 

Brittany, Penny, and Karli’s innovative approach to building the RWHL has set a high standard for inclusivity and community engagement in sports leagues. Their leadership, vision, and commitment to the league’s values have made a profound impact on the lives of countless women in the Bow Valley, fostering a legacy of friendship, empowerment, and athletic achievement that will endure for years to come. 

Tracy is a pioneering force in the culinary landscape of the Bow Valley, reshaping the dining scene with her innovative “farm to fork” approach. Through her establishment, Sauvage, Tracy brings her vision of meticulously crafted, locally sourced cuisine to life, inspiring others to embrace sustainability and environmental stewardship. Tracy’s commitment to her craft extends beyond the kitchen as she orchestrates collaborations with local initiatives, curates themed events, and offers affordable private gatherings, all while giving back to the community through her involvement with organizations like Food & Friends and the YWCA Banff. 

As a trailblazer in her field, Tracy embodies resilience and determination, breaking barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her passion for sustainability and giving back to the community serves as a beacon of inspiration for women in the area, empowering them to pursue their dreams and challenge the status quo. Tracy’s close connection to nature drives her culinary creations and her advocacy for environmental conservation, making her a driving force for positive change in the Bow Valley and beyond. 

Avni Soma is a relentless advocate for justice and equity in the Bow Valley, driven by an unwavering commitment to fostering community well-being. Avni brings people along with her. She exemplifies the qualities of an innovator and a community champion, and she knows how to build change-inducing projects from the ground up, slow and steady, until they become a staple of the community. Her leadership shines through endeavors like the Canmore Community Garden, which she co-founded in 2011, not only to cultivate food but also to cultivate knowledge and connection among residents.  

At the heart of Avni’s work lies her dedication to food justice and decolonization. She spearheads projects like the hot lunch school food program at École Notre-Dame des Monts, integrating a values-based procurement model and has hired an Indigenous chef to nurture not just bodies but cultural heritage. Her involvement in organizations like the Bow Valley Food Alliance, Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council, Alberta Food Matters, and the Coalition for Healthy School Food amplifies her impact, advocating tirelessly for systemic change toward a more just food system. 

Avni’s influence extends far beyond the Bow Valley as she engages in a new research project exploring innovative approaches to non-profit governance that confront racism, colonialism, and neoliberalism. Avni is a doer, paving the way for a future guided by equity, inclusion, and genuine community connection. Through work and volunteerism, she demonstrates how all of us can live out our values and create change that permeates locally, provincially, and beyond.

Cassie Ayoungman embodies determination, courage, and love in her unwavering commitment to fostering community connection and inclusivity. As the founder of Soul of Miistaki, a grassroots organization established in 2022, Cassie has dedicated herself to providing inclusive outdoor programming for Indigenous youth and BIPOC participants in the Bow Valley. Despite the challenges of running such initiatives without operational funding, Cassie’s resilience and passion shine through as she tirelessly organizes and leads these transformative experiences, driven by her belief in the power of relationships with the land. 

Cassie’s courage is evident in her willingness to occupy spaces where Indigenous voices are often underrepresented, sharing her stories and advocating for community representation. Her loving spirit creates a welcoming and accepting environment for all participants, reflecting her deep commitment to community growth and empowerment. Through initiatives like the Women’s Cultural Climbing Camp, Cassie not only breaks down barriers to outdoor recreation but also provides a safe space for women to connect with themselves, each other, and the natural world. Cassie’s leadership and vision inspire others to embrace their own strength and resilience, making her an invaluable champion for inclusivity and empowerment in the Bow Valley and beyond. 

Cathy Geisler epitomizes the essence of community leadership, embodying qualities of determination and compassion that inspire those around her. Her unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration and driving meaningful change is evident in her leadership roles across various initiatives, where she advocates tirelessly for social justice and community well-being. 

As a visionary trailblazer, Cathy fearlessly tackles challenges and explores innovative approaches to address pressing issues facing the community. Her advocacy spans diverse domains, from education and sports to mental health and food security, reflecting her holistic approach to community development. Cathy’s ability to bridge silos and mobilize resources underscores her commitment to building a thriving and inclusive community where every member can flourish.  

Cathy’s legacy of impactful initiatives, such as the “Mountain Readers” program, now a staple in the school curriculum, igniting a passion for reading in countless students, and the innovative “What’s for Dinner” campaign which addressed heightened concerns about food security by providing essential meals to families in need during the pandemic, exemplify her dedication to making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Her compassionate nature and empathetic demeanor make her a trusted ally and supporter, particularly in spaces where marginalized voices are often overlooked. Through her relentless advocacy and leadership, Cathy continues to champion social change and inspire others to join in the collective effort of building a brighter future for all. 

Hannah radiates creativity, kindness, and inclusivity, enriching the Bow Valley community through her unwavering commitment to fostering spaces of belonging and creativity for all. As the founder of the “Art Coven,” a monthly art club held in her own home, Hannah creates a sanctuary where individuals from diverse backgrounds can express themselves freely and build supportive connections. Through initiatives like this, she catalyzes personal growth and community flourishing, embodying the spirit of generosity and passion that drives her work. 

Hannah’s impact extends across various dimensions of community enhancement. She has taught ASL (sign language) on social media, a project that fosters a welcoming, inclusive and accessible community, and regularly volunteers for organizations and programs in town, including artsPlace, Canmore Folk Festival, and the Bow Valley Connections program – where she works with children and teenagers with special needs and disabilities. Hannah is a key member of the Heart Burn committee, which is an annual event at artsplace that showcases local art, musicians, and performers.  

Hannah’s dedication to uplifting marginalized voices, including those of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and women/femmes, is evident in projects like the Beau Valley Circus, where performers of all backgrounds and abilities are welcomed and celebrated. Through her creative endeavors and volunteerism, Hannah continually demonstrates her commitment to building a more inclusive, accessible, and vibrant Bow Valley community where everyone is welcomed and celebrated.

Jade is adventurous, creative, and dynamic. She impacts the community through her creative initiatives and unwavering commitment to social justice. From her transformative experiences as a participant in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program in Thailand to her hands-on involvement in humanitarian projects like building stoves in Guatemala and homes in Mexico, Jade’s venturesome spirit drives her to make a tangible difference in the world. 

As the founder of Project A, Jade merges her passion for art and business to support emerging artists and foster community connections. Through her entrepreneurial journey, she has demonstrated resilience and creativity, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, where she found innovative ways to sell her products and support artists. Jade’s dedication to social justice is evident in her involvement in numerous fundraisers and community initiatives, advocating for causes like food security, indigenous rights, and women’s empowerment. 

Jade’s impact extends beyond her business endeavors, as she actively volunteers and serves on the boards of various organizations, advocating for small business owners and supporting vulnerable communities. Her commitment to mentoring emerging artists, promoting inclusivity, and empowering young entrepreneurs reflects her ethos of giving back and creating a supportive community where everyone can thrive. Jade’s remarkable journey from a young Artpreneur to a community leader exemplifies her transformative leadership and dedication to making a positive impact on the world. 

Jessica embodies the qualities of a true leader, demonstrating remarkable passion, and kindness in her dedication to bettering the community. As the Executive Director of the Homelessness Society of the Bow Valley (HSBV), Jessica has taken on the challenge with determination and adaptability, building impactful relationships and fostering a deeper understanding of homelessness in our community. 

Beyond her role with HSBV, Jessica’s passion for community shines through her involvement in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those facing food and environmental insecurity such as the Bow Valley Food Alliance and the Biosphere Institute. Her natural drive to make a difference inspires those around her, fostering a culture of empowerment and growth within her team. Jessica’s kindness and mentorship have created a supportive environment where individuals can thrive, emphasizing the value of each person’s unique strengths and contributions. Through her commitment to service and inclusivity, Jessica is making meaningful strides towards creating a safer, more equitable community for all. 

Lucie is passionate about her community, consistently seeking opportunities to connect and uplift those around her to make Canmore a better place. Through her business ventures, Lucie provides a space for entrepreneurs, local workers, and organizations to thrive, fostering creativity, inspiration, and connection. 

As the Founder of CanMore Together, Lucie is dedicated to providing affordable space and resources to locals, local businesses, and non-profits, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder community engagement and collaboration. CanMore together is also kid friendly, offering a kid’s corner to help new parents who are juggling work and parenthood. Her initiatives, such as the Share Your Gift program and the CommUnity Fund, demonstrate her commitment to supporting others and fostering a culture of generosity within the community. 

Lucie’s approaches every interaction with honesty, integrity, and sincerity. Her focus on empowering women and promoting mindfulness, healing, and mental wellness inspires others to come together to create a supportive and inclusive Bow Valley community. 

Makaylah is a community-minded and compassionate leader, inspired by their lived experience and clear vision for a better future. From co-creating a Community Cares Framework as part of the Moving Mountains Initiative to leveraging Frankie D’s Donuts as a platform for social change, Makaylah is continuously seeking new avenues to effect positive change. Their strong commitment to building a more open, inclusive, and vibrant community is evident in their fearless advocacy and invitation to engage with a positive vision for collective well-being. 

Drawing from personal experiences of trauma and violence, Makaylah is determined to amplify the voices of those who feel unheard. Through their work and volunteerism, they strive to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness while fostering a sense of belonging in the community. Since founding Frankie D’s Donuts in 2020, Makaylah has continually given back to the community, using their business not only as a means of reducing loneliness but also as a platform for open conversations around mental health. Through initiatives like “Donuts and Conversations” and “Together Sundays” online check-ins, Makaylah prioritizes mental health and works tirelessly to create environments of empathy and connection. 

Makaylah’s contributions to projects like the Community Cares Framework exemplify their dedication to empathy-driven change. By advocating for marginalized groups, including women and gender diverse folks, through organizations like Canmore Pride and Bow Valley Safer Spaces, they continue to pave the way for a more inclusive community. Makaylah’s multifaceted approach to advocacy, business, and community engagement makes them a true leader, inspiring others to embrace authenticity, compassion, and social responsibility in their own endeavours. 

Rachel is an inspiring leader who is dedicated to advocacy, empowerment, and sustainability. With a visionary approach, Rachel has spearheaded initiatives within Tourism Canmore Kananaskis (TCK) and beyond to promote environmentally responsible practices, showcasing her forward-thinking mindset and commitment to a better future. Her leadership fosters collaboration and innovation, driving meaningful progress towards a more sustainable community. 

Rachel’s advocacy for sustainability and inclusive tourism has inspired individuals and organizations to prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility.  Through her leadership at TCK and beyond, Rachel has left a lasting impact on the lives of women and gender diverse people, empowering them to pursue leadership roles and careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion ensures that everyone has a voice and a seat at the table, leading to greater representation and opportunities for all members of the community. 

Sandra is a dedicated Highland dance teacher and mentor who has not only nurtured her students’ talents but also their character, instilling values of kindness, integrity, and perseverance. She has been a pillar of support and guidance, shaping the lives of her students and their families for over three decades. 

Sandra has cultivated a sense of community and belonging, creating spaces where every dancer feels seen, respected, and celebrated for their unique strengths. Through cultural teaching and mentorship, Sandra imparts invaluable life lessons, fostering growth and resilience in her students as they navigate the journey from childhood to adulthood. Her dedication to her students’ well-being and personal development is unwavering, leaving a lasting legacy of love, compassion, and empowerment in the Bow Valley community. 

Sandra’s tireless efforts to organize events, trips, and performances demonstrate her deep investment in her students’ success and happiness. Sandra’s profound impact on her students and their families is a testament to her selfless dedication and enduring legacy of care and compassion.  

Tracy is a pioneering force in the culinary landscape of the Bow Valley, reshaping the dining scene with her innovative “farm to fork” approach. Through her establishment, Sauvage, Tracy brings her vision of meticulously crafted, locally sourced cuisine to life, inspiring others to embrace sustainability and environmental stewardship. Tracy’s commitment to her craft extends beyond the kitchen as she orchestrates collaborations with local initiatives, curates themed events, and offers affordable private gatherings, all while giving back to the community through her involvement with organizations like Food & Friends and the YWCA Banff. 

As a trailblazer in her field, Tracy embodies resilience and determination, breaking barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her passion for sustainability and giving back to the community serves as a beacon of inspiration for women in the area, empowering them to pursue their dreams and challenge the status quo. Tracy’s close connection to nature drives her culinary creations and her advocacy for environmental conservation, making her a driving force for positive change in the Bow Valley and beyond.