Jacquie Fenske
Maxine Reichstein
Jacquie Fenske
Jacquie has worn many hats throughout her life. As a child, when asked what she wanted to be, she responded: a teacher, a lawyer, and a spy. Her journey so far has included roles as a junior and senior high teacher, a municipal councillor, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Additionally, she was asked to serve as the interim leader
Jacquie has worn many hats throughout her life. As a child, when asked what she wanted to be, she responded: a teacher, a lawyer, and a spy. Her journey so far has included roles as a junior and senior high teacher, a municipal councillor, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Additionally, she was asked to serve as the interim leader for a provincial political party.
Today, Jacquie calls herself an entrepreneur. She is a managing partner in her family’s restaurant business and the president of two companies that promote rural and agricultural initiatives. Committed to building community, she actively practices what she preaches by taking initiative and volunteering on several boards, committees, and community-building projects.
Jacquie shares her extensive knowledge and life experiences through speaking engagements and mentoring groups and individuals. With over 13 years of teaching experience and a career in politics similar to law, she continues to embody her childhood aspirations. And as for the spy? Well, they say older women make the best spies. Stay tuned—her journey is far from over.
Contact Jacquie:
Facebook: Jacquie Fenske
Linkedin: Jacquie Fenske
Instagram: Ruralroutes
Dee Ann Benard
Maxine Reichstein
Jacquie Fenske
Dee Ann Benard is the first female Director of UBC Botanical Garden. She earned a B.Sc. and M.Sc. from Simon Fraser University.
With extensive experience in executive leadership, Dee Ann has a proven track record of starting and growing not-for-profit organizations. Her strengths include organizational and financial management, board gove
Dee Ann Benard is the first female Director of UBC Botanical Garden. She earned a B.Sc. and M.Sc. from Simon Fraser University.
With extensive experience in executive leadership, Dee Ann has a proven track record of starting and growing not-for-profit organizations. Her strengths include organizational and financial management, board governance, advocacy, and program development.
For 20 years, she served as a CEO, including 14.5 years with the Rural Development Network, where she led a successful rebranding and expansion, transforming it from a small provincial entity into a national organization.
Dee Ann has also contributed to numerous boards.
Contact Dee Ann:
LinkedIn: Dee Ann Benard
Maxine Reichstein
Maxine Reichstein
Maxine Reichstein
Maxine was raised on a farm, her German heritage rooted in her grandfather’s journey to Canada. Once a quiet, shy girl, she’s now known for her spirited determination—fueled whenever someone said, “You can’t!” Whether you call it stubbornness or strength, Maxine always found a way. Retirement has been more of a suggestion than a reality
Maxine was raised on a farm, her German heritage rooted in her grandfather’s journey to Canada. Once a quiet, shy girl, she’s now known for her spirited determination—fueled whenever someone said, “You can’t!” Whether you call it stubbornness or strength, Maxine always found a way. Retirement has been more of a suggestion than a reality, as she embraces new adventures, travels, and cherishes time with her four grandchildren. Her journey reflects resilience, joy, and an unwavering love for helping others, proving that life is best lived with humour, determination, and an open heart.
Contact Maxine:
Facebook: Maxine.Reichstein
Facebook: FunkyMangoFoodTruck
Instagram: Maxine.Reichstein
Adam Walker
Maxine Reichstein
Maxine Reichstein
Born and raised in Edmonton, and spent some time in Ontario, I am a true and proud Alberta boy. I love to engage in conversation, meet new people and learn what journey they are on. I have had some successes and failures in my career, always jumping ship to find the next best thing. With a long resume and feeling uninspired in 2020, and
Born and raised in Edmonton, and spent some time in Ontario, I am a true and proud Alberta boy. I love to engage in conversation, meet new people and learn what journey they are on. I have had some successes and failures in my career, always jumping ship to find the next best thing. With a long resume and feeling uninspired in 2020, and with the strong support of my loving wife (who was expecting our first child), I started a giftware business and haven’t looked back. I enjoy each ripple or rapid that life puts in front of me.
Contact Adam:
Connie Kobylko
Donna Lynne Erickson
Connie Kobylko
Meet Connie Kobylko, a Joy Guide who doesn't just weather life's storms – she teaches others to dance in the rain with a splash of sass. As a SuPEARLative Award recipient and Life Celebrant, she transforms life's tough moments into stepping stones for growth, believing authentic connection is the heartbeat of transformation. Whether she
Meet Connie Kobylko, a Joy Guide who doesn't just weather life's storms – she teaches others to dance in the rain with a splash of sass. As a SuPEARLative Award recipient and Life Celebrant, she transforms life's tough moments into stepping stones for growth, believing authentic connection is the heartbeat of transformation. Whether she's volunteering at music festivals, exploring European villages, or guiding others through profound transitions, Connie radiates her signature blend of wisdom and whimsy. Her mission? Living vibrantly until 102 while helping others rediscover their inner light. Because as Connie says, "We can't choose life's music, but we can choose how we dance to it."
Contact Connie:
connie.kobylko@gmail.com
Facebook: @conniekobylkoconsulting
Instagram: @connie.kobylko
Linkedin: Connie Kobylko
Geoff Stewart
Donna Lynne Erickson
Connie Kobylko
Geoff Stewart is the president and founder of Rig Hand Distillery, Edmonton’s first craft distillery. Having a background in chemistry from the University of Alberta and illicit experience in moonshining, Geoff was interested in making the jump to legitimate distilling once legislation in Alberta changed to allow craft distilleries. He
Geoff Stewart is the president and founder of Rig Hand Distillery, Edmonton’s first craft distillery. Having a background in chemistry from the University of Alberta and illicit experience in moonshining, Geoff was interested in making the jump to legitimate distilling once legislation in Alberta changed to allow craft distilleries. He enrolled in formal training at Artisan Craft Distilling Institute in Seattle, Washington. Upon completion of this course, he felt that he needed more hands-on training, so he arranged an apprenticeship and Stillwrights bourbon distillery in Fairborn, Ohio.
Contact Geoff:
Donna Lynne Erickson
Donna Lynne Erickson
Donna Lynne Erickson
A self-confessed Baby Boomer, this prairie born woman, Donna Lynne Erickson brings a burst of energy into the room—hosting an event, facilitating her Facing Loss seminars, or entertaining corporate comedy gigs. Her guide to love, loss, and laughter is her passion project whether that be in her writing, speaking, or entertaining. “I had
A self-confessed Baby Boomer, this prairie born woman, Donna Lynne Erickson brings a burst of energy into the room—hosting an event, facilitating her Facing Loss seminars, or entertaining corporate comedy gigs. Her guide to love, loss, and laughter is her passion project whether that be in her writing, speaking, or entertaining. “I had no idea how soon I would droop, dribble, and dry up all at once—from arm candy to a wrist donut overnight! Life is too short to live with regret and bitterness. Keep listening, learning and laughing with forgiving hearts—especially to yourself.”
Contact Donna:
Kingsley Leung
Donna Lynne Erickson
Donna Lynne Erickson
Kingsley’s tombstone would read: “He Did It His Way”. As a second generation Chinese Canadian, Kingsley’s parents met in Ottawa after immigrating from China but then all called Edmonton home since the mid-70s.
Now, you can find Kingsley doing community theatre from stage plays to musicals to film and music videos, whilst building his br
Kingsley’s tombstone would read: “He Did It His Way”. As a second generation Chinese Canadian, Kingsley’s parents met in Ottawa after immigrating from China but then all called Edmonton home since the mid-70s.
Now, you can find Kingsley doing community theatre from stage plays to musicals to film and music videos, whilst building his brand as a foreign exchange broker and “changing money into MONEY!”
Kingsley’s three kids would say he’s the best dad ever, and the love of his life would simply say he’s different, but she still likes him a lot. He can smile at this, but good luck getting a “normal” picture of him.
Contact Kingsley:
Dr. Wendy Coburn
Dr. Wendy Coburn
Dr. Wendy Coburn
A daughter, sister, wife, mother, chiropractor, speaker of life, business owner & athlete.
She is someone who works on speaking life into others to share hope and vision for their health and their families - especially her own. Her children would say her answer to everything is drink more water and everything will be good.
After working a
A daughter, sister, wife, mother, chiropractor, speaker of life, business owner & athlete.
She is someone who works on speaking life into others to share hope and vision for their health and their families - especially her own. Her children would say her answer to everything is drink more water and everything will be good.
After working as a chiropractor for 25 years she loves it more this day than her first day and all the days in between. Wendy loves seeing lives transformed and families seeing what is possible through empowerment and understanding that they can have control.
If you can’t find her, check out her offices – the hockey rinks, basketball courts, hot yoga studios, sometimes in the pool or on the road either cycling or running preparing for a triathlon.
Contact Wendy:
onevillagechiropractic@gmail.com
Instagram: @onevillagechiro
Bryanna Kumpula
Dr. Wendy Coburn
Dr. Wendy Coburn
Bryanna is a dynamic facilitator, community builder, and entrepreneur with deep roots in agriculture. Raised on a mixed farm in Northern Alberta, she developed a lifelong passion for food and farming. She is the founder of Bar OA Farms, a regenerative flower farm offering locally grown flowers and immersive on-farm experiences. Committe
Bryanna is a dynamic facilitator, community builder, and entrepreneur with deep roots in agriculture. Raised on a mixed farm in Northern Alberta, she developed a lifelong passion for food and farming. She is the founder of Bar OA Farms, a regenerative flower farm offering locally grown flowers and immersive on-farm experiences. Committed to strengthening regional food systems, Bryanna focuses on projects that enhance food access and security through local food and horticulture initiatives. Her work blends innovation and sustainability, helping communities thrive through agriculture and connection to the land.
Contact Bryanna:
Troy Wason
Dr. Wendy Coburn
Troy Wason
Troy, born in Regina, spent most of his life in Calgary, where he built a career in politics, research, and community service. He pursued his passion for history at the University of Calgary, achieving both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. His professional path features significant leadership roles, including Executive Director of t
Troy, born in Regina, spent most of his life in Calgary, where he built a career in politics, research, and community service. He pursued his passion for history at the University of Calgary, achieving both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. His professional path features significant leadership roles, including Executive Director of two major political parties in Alberta. Dedicated to independent research, he founded an information consulting firm in 2014, providing valuable research, analysis, and strategic guidance. Now residing in Medicine Hat with his wife, Lisa Mackintosh, Troy is committed to making a positive impact in their community and beyond.
Contact Troy:
Grant Berg
Dr. Wendy Coburn
Troy Wason
Grant Berg - Artist, stone sculptor creating tree sculptures that speak to the resiliency of his Indigenous ancestors. Creator of five public sculptures.
Current City Councillor of Grande Prairie. Previously on the Premier’s Council for Culture, past Chairman of the AGGP, plus volunteer roles that elevate quality of life.
Owner of a com
Grant Berg - Artist, stone sculptor creating tree sculptures that speak to the resiliency of his Indigenous ancestors. Creator of five public sculptures.
Current City Councillor of Grande Prairie. Previously on the Premier’s Council for Culture, past Chairman of the AGGP, plus volunteer roles that elevate quality of life.
Owner of a commercial art gallery representing 55 artists. Award winning business and past nominee for a Business Award of Distinction from Alberta Chamber of Commerce.
Former Broadcaster of 29 years. Started in TV producing Question Period at the Alberta Legislature. Radio jobs ranged from announcer to marketing executive to General Manager.
Storyteller – self-published author.
Contact Grant:
Be Badass: Affect Change to Effect Change
This book launched September 11, 2024 in Edmonton, Alberta. Buy the paperback & e-book on Amazon Kindle today!
Meet the authors of the first book
Jacquie Fenske
Jacquie Fenske
Jacquie Fenske
Jacquie has worn many hats throughout her life. As a child, when asked what she wanted to be, she responded: a teacher, a lawyer, and a spy. Her journey so far has included roles as a junior and senior high teacher, a municipal councillor, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Additionally, she was asked to serve as the interim leader
Jacquie has worn many hats throughout her life. As a child, when asked what she wanted to be, she responded: a teacher, a lawyer, and a spy. Her journey so far has included roles as a junior and senior high teacher, a municipal councillor, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly. Additionally, she was asked to serve as the interim leader for a provincial political party.
Today, Jacquie calls herself an entrepreneur. She is a managing partner in her family’s restaurant business and the president of two companies that promote rural and agricultural initiatives. Committed to building community, she actively practices what she preaches by taking initiative and volunteering on several boards, committees, and community-building projects.
Jacquie shares her extensive knowledge and life experiences through speaking engagements and mentoring groups and individuals. With over 13 years of teaching experience and a career in politics similar to law, she continues to embody her childhood aspirations. And as for the spy? Well, they say older women make the best spies. Stay tuned—her journey is far from over.
Contact Jacquie:
Facebook: Jacquie Fenske
Linkedin: Jacquie Fenske
Instagram: Ruralroutes
Clinton Beck
Jacquie Fenske
Jacquie Fenske
From the gritty streets of one of Canada’s most impoverished neighbourhoods, Clinton Beck, CEO, Antique & Jewellery Appraiser, Auctioneer, has charted an extraordinary journey. Escaping his challenging early life at 15, Beck transformed his fate through sheer determination and a passion for the world of antiques and treasures. Today, he s
From the gritty streets of one of Canada’s most impoverished neighbourhoods, Clinton Beck, CEO, Antique & Jewellery Appraiser, Auctioneer, has charted an extraordinary journey. Escaping his challenging early life at 15, Beck transformed his fate through sheer determination and a passion for the world of antiques and treasures. Today, he stands as a titan in the Canadian antique industry, with his conglomerate – encompassing Beck Antiques & Jewellery, Beck Auctions, and Dragons Breath Security – boasting annual revenues of $15 million. His empire extends to specialized ventures like Beck Numismatics Rare Coin Dealers, Beck Diamond Brokers, and Beck Gemological Laboratory.
His entrepreneurial acumen was recognized when he was a finalist for the Canadian Young Entrepreneur of The Year and his leadership skills shone through as the Executive of The Year for The Fraser Valley Executive Association.
Contact Clinton:
Mathew Preston
Jacquie Fenske
Mathew Preston
Mathew is a fifth-generation Albertan and a first-rate believer. He’s held many jobs but has always simply considered himself a writer and a doer. From farming to fighter planes, there’s little he hasn’t had to spend some amount of time professionally or personally obsessed with.
Mathew is driven by the belief that ideas matter, but only i
Mathew is a fifth-generation Albertan and a first-rate believer. He’s held many jobs but has always simply considered himself a writer and a doer. From farming to fighter planes, there’s little he hasn’t had to spend some amount of time professionally or personally obsessed with.
Mathew is driven by the belief that ideas matter, but only in relation to human nature, emotions, and empathy. How we see ourselves, how we see our world, and how we communicate that vision drives action.
He loves his wife, his dog and his cats, in that order.
Contact Mathew:
Shirley Jolly
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Shirley Jolly
Shirley Jolly is a strong believer in contributing to the well-being of her community by staying active and being involved especially where she can make a difference in people’s lives. Her artistic and innovative skills are often in great demand and not one to say no, this energetic young lady of advanced years can be counted on to help f
Shirley Jolly is a strong believer in contributing to the well-being of her community by staying active and being involved especially where she can make a difference in people’s lives. Her artistic and innovative skills are often in great demand and not one to say no, this energetic young lady of advanced years can be counted on to help family or friends when they need a hand. While her decorating style may be considered eclectic, she is not fond of anything symmetrical, fancies the colour lime green, and collects anything with bees on it. This creative thinker is often considered picky but sees herself as selective; she does not view herself as bossy as much as aggressively helpful and has learned there is no such thing as a dumb question.
Though her children are always close to her heart, Shirley considers her greatest accomplishment was being elected to Strathcona County Council for five terms. She credits being flexible, spontaneous and having a positive outlook with what has inspired her to live the life she wants. Currently enjoying retirement in Leduc County, where she and her husband operated a cow/calf farm, Shirley cherishes time spent with her three grown sons and their families, all of whom hold a special place in her heart.
Contact Shirley:
Laura Bodell
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Shirley Jolly
A fourth-generation entrepreneur, Laura Bodell will tell you that all the dirt from the hard-working hands of her farming and ranching ancestors made the grit that runs through her veins. She is driven by a core desire to help others succeed as they pursue their own dreams. This manifested first as a boutique advertising agency and now as
A fourth-generation entrepreneur, Laura Bodell will tell you that all the dirt from the hard-working hands of her farming and ranching ancestors made the grit that runs through her veins. She is driven by a core desire to help others succeed as they pursue their own dreams. This manifested first as a boutique advertising agency and now as a sales platform for Albertan artisans and small businesses from the beautiful mountain town of Canmore. Laura believes life is granted to us for our soul’s growth and evolution and to leave this world a little better than we found it.
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelo.
Contact Laura:
@albertasownmarket
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Leila’s relationship with Grace is woven through her life like a tapestry. With Grace, she has come through darkened moments of loss, rejection, abandonment and health crisis. Grace became her bridge to healing outcomes. A breast cancer survivor, meditation and shamanic energy student, master hairstylist, entrepreneur and creatrix.
Leila
Leila’s relationship with Grace is woven through her life like a tapestry. With Grace, she has come through darkened moments of loss, rejection, abandonment and health crisis. Grace became her bridge to healing outcomes. A breast cancer survivor, meditation and shamanic energy student, master hairstylist, entrepreneur and creatrix.
Leila began the creation process and dream to become an entrepreneur in 2008. In January 2009, “Awear Style Co.” Opened its doors with a focus on Canadian design and made Women’s fashions. Leila enjoyed a 10-year run with Awear Style Co., teaching clients how to dress, style, and adore their bodies. In the same year, another blessing was born. Leila and Geoff (husband) welcomed their son, Ethan, into the world. In 2019, Awear Style Co. Closed its doors in divine timing before COVID-19.
The years since have been filled with being her son’s biggest fan on and off the hockey rinks and baseball diamonds. Immersion in the healing arts of meditation, studying Shamanic energy medicine, creating semi-precious intentional jewellery and continuous learnings from books, mentors, inspiration, and holding space for herself and others.
Contact Leila:
Instagram: @luminosa_yeg
Karl Hauch
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Leila Doran-Gumpinger
Karl Hauch has 17+ years of valued municipal/work leadership experience. A public and private sector leader, he has a profound understanding of legal, economic, political, technical, and social issues, applying outside-of the-box thinking and has 25+ years of leadership experience in private sector work as a Master Planner/Scheduler. Exam
Karl Hauch has 17+ years of valued municipal/work leadership experience. A public and private sector leader, he has a profound understanding of legal, economic, political, technical, and social issues, applying outside-of the-box thinking and has 25+ years of leadership experience in private sector work as a Master Planner/Scheduler. Example of Karl’s leadership – major contributor/team player for coordinating Shell’s - largest major turnaround in 2010 at Scotford.
Hauch is passionate about volunteering, the outdoors, family/friends, and his faith.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.” - African proverb.
Contact Karl: