DISCOVER THESE MOUNTAIN RETREATS
A TOAST TO TOAST! APRIL HICKE AND MARISSA MCNEELANDS MAKE INROADS FOR WOMEN IN TECH
MUSIC & OPERA
THEATRE
INDIGENOUS ARTS
LITERARY ARTS
VISUAL ARTS
WALTER PHILLIPS GALLERY FILMS
True innovation begins with true inclusion.
Calgary is building the world’s first accessible arts learning campus, a home that will support Canadian artists, producers, technicians, and content creators living with disabilities in their learning and creation journey.
Learn more about how the National accessArts Centre presented by TD Ready Commitment is celebrating Artists First™.
by Calgary’s architectural heritage, this development community features beautiful executive homes, breathtaking views, walking and biking paths, as well as west Calgary’s premier shopping destination Aspen Landing Shopping Centre.
Homes By Us
Crystal Creek Homes
Homes By Us
Homes By Us
Crystal Creek Homes
Inspired
Aspen Landing Shopping Centre features top retailers and services in unique, locally-owned storefronts sprawled across a distinctive landscape in southwest Calgary. Whether you need a quick check-up, a mouth-watering lunch, or need to complete an extensive to-do list, you can get it all done at Aspen Landing! FREE INDOOR PARKING.
THE NEW CALGARY CHAMBER
With a diverse team, innovative member benefits and a goal of welcoming every local business into its dynamic network, the Calgary Chamber celebrates its 134th anniversary with renewed vigor and lofty goals.
For over 130 years, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce has been central to the city’s business community, adapting to Calgary’s evolving economic landscape. Founded in 1891 by 46 businessmen across a wide array of industries, the Chamber has grown into an integral, diverse organization that unites Calgary’s business community through events, networking and advocacy.
As Calgary’s economy has transformed, so has the Chamber’s reach and impact. In 2024 alone, the Calgary Chamber saw a surge in membership, attracting more than one new member per day of the year, hosting over 60 events and drawing more
than 6,000 attendees from every quadrant of the city.
As Calgary Chamber President & CEO Deborah Yedlin points out: Calgary has changed dramatically in the last decade. While the energy sector remains a dominant economic driver, the city’s fabric now includes many new companies in the cleantech, agtech and fintech spaces that contribute to the economic diversity of the city and make it more resilient.
Under Yedlin’s leadership, the Calgary Chamber has deepened its focus on building a welcoming business environment for all Calgary businesses, creating pillar
partnerships with local and national companies that reflect and support the city’s evolving needs. In the last year, the Chamber has established pillar partnerships for Small Business, Mental Health, Leadership, Truth and Reconciliation and Inclusion — all of which are integral to the growth and success of Calgary’s economy.
The Chamber is proud of its all-female leadership team, emphasizing that diversity is not just a goal, but a guiding principle for the Chamber’s work within Calgary’s business community.
“It’s often said ‘if you can see it, you can be it’ and that’s our goal from a leadership
standpoint,” says Yedlin. “It’s important that we reflect — and continue to reflect — on the growing diversity of the city. Calgary is the third-most diverse city in the country, yet most people aren’t aware of that.”
As the Calgary Chamber continues to evolve, its history is also marked by those who paved the way for the organization’s impact on the business community. The Hon. Lois Mitchell, former Lieutenant Governor of Alberta and past Board Chair of the Calgary Chamber, has long been an advocate for local businesses and for advancing women in leadership positions. Throughout her career, she’s lived the values of the Calgary Chamber, dedicated to strengthening community ties and passionately promoting vital areas such as education and community service.
“When I first started my career, women in leadership roles were far less common,” Mitchell says. “The path to leadership often required overcoming deeply ingrained biases.”
It also means having sponsors and mentors within the community and the businesses themselves, which is the role Mitchell has played for many women in Calgary. When Yedlin first landed in the city, it was Mitchell who quickly brought her onto the board of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Today, with a shifting business landscape in our city, Mitchell believes that adaptability and the importance of looking forward, not backward, has been essential to Calgary’s business successes.
“To address the challenges Calgary’s business community faces, business leaders must embrace innovation and support emerging industries, while recognizing our traditional strengths,” says Mitchell, emphasizing the Calgary Chamber’s critical role in advocating for policies that foster a thriving business environment in a rapidly changing market.
Looking ahead, the Calgary Chamber remains committed to ensuring businesses have the support they need. By continuing to champion small businesses, advocate for inclusivity and build meaningful connections, the Chamber ensures that Calgary’s future is one where everyone, from every sector and community, has the opportunity to succeed.
For more information, visit calgarychamber.com.
“
To address the challenges Calgary’s business community faces, business leaders must embrace innovation and support emerging industries, while recognizing our traditional strengths.”
— HON. LOIS MITCHELL
Hicke (left), chief
officer,
Marissa McNeelands, CEO
PHOTO BY Jared Sych
TSERING ASHA
SENIOR EDITOR
tleba@redpointmedia.ca
I
n 2020, around the time we started publishing an innovation issue, I had just joined Avenue as an editorial intern. A month after I started, we hosted our first innovation event (hosted online, because of COVID-19 restrictions). In the last five years, a lot has changed — I’m no longer an intern, we can host events in person again, including our upcoming Innovation event on June 19 (you can get tickets at AvenueCalgary.com/InnovationEvent) and we launched an Innovation newsletter.
the library handled the hack without compromising any user data (read more on page 48).
We cover the fun side of tech, too, like Bow Valley College’s debut of a major new esports program. What even are “esports,” you ask? That’s the same question I had. Writer Riley Fonger defines it for us and tells us about this new program, which includes a look at a new futuristic-looking arena, varsity esports teams and an accompanying business degree in his piece, "Burst Into Esports" on page 50.
SPOTLIGHT ON INNOVATION
Calgary’s innovation ecosystem is no longer an aspirational idea in a global context, thanks to a handful of organizations, venture capital funders and supporters. Read Amarachi Amadike and Olivia Piché's stories about those organizations. The City of Calgary’s Wave Tech Centre, which opened in 2024, is a creative space for municipal employees to experiment with new ways to solve everyday problems in planning, transportation and other municipal issues. Ximena González tells us more in her story "A New Wave of City Building" on page 47. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing tech professions in Canada. Last October, the Calgary Public Library’s team showed us how important these professionals are when they successfully stopped a sophisticated hack attempt. This was one of my favourite news stories because this had a win for the good guys. Coincidentally, it unfolded while someone I know was taking a cybersecurity boot camp and we followed the library’s updates constantly. Despite the coverage, I wanted to hear what happened from the folks with boots on the ground. Marcello Di Cintio’s story digs into how
There are thousands of people doing unique and cool things in the city, but, if you want a primer on standout innovators, read our inaugural Innovators of the Year feature, born from expanded innovation coverage in Avenue’s Innovation newsletter (sign up at avenuecalgary. com/newsletters).
We profile 10 locals who are improving jobseeking journeys for newcomers and women, making veterinary care more accessible, using AI in the process of home building and buying, improving the outcomes of chronic wound care, creating a community in Calgary’s burgeoning tech industry, and providing access to advanced pay for employees.
All eyes will be on Calgary and local innovators as the city welcomes Inventures in May, and the G7 and the Rotary International Convention, both in June. It's the perfect time to take our innovations to a global scale and invite the world to see the magic already happening here.
Correction: In the March/April issue, the story "A Room of One’s Own" was mistakenly credited to Alyssa Hirose, but should have been credited to Karen Ashbee. We regret the error.
PHOTO BY JARED SYCH
TACKLING THE TABOO AROUND
MEN’S SEXUAL HEALTH
When men are in control of their sexual health, life gets better for them and their partners.
The truth is, sexual wellness is essential to an individual’s overall health. However, for men in particular, issues surrounding sexual health can often be a daunting and uncomfortable topic.
Precision Sexual Health Clinic for Men is helping to change that.
Clinic founder, Dr. Meyer Schoeman explains why: “Like any sexual health issue, it often affects someone else, so it’s important to address.”
Even more than that, everyone deserves to feel their best, and sexual health isn’t just about what happens in the bedroom. It’s about confidence, energy, relationships and quality of life. Yet, too many men suffer in silence, thinking things like erectile dysfunction or low testosterone are just part of getting older.
Not enough people know their options or are even having a conversation about men’s sexual health.
What can low testosterone look like?
“If you, or your partner, are always tired, grumpy, have a low libido, and have lost muscle mass, developing what’s known as a dad bod, and are often feeling low energy and not excited about making plans, it could be your testosterone level,” explains Schoeman.
Symptoms of testosterone deficiency can materialize in sexual, physical and cognitive ways, including reduced sexual drive or erectile function, loss of body hair and muscle mass, and poor memory or concentration.
Testosterone is an essential male hormone responsible for several functions, including fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, sexual drive and sperm production. The Canadian Urological Association reports that an
LIKE ANY SEXUAL HEALTH ISSUE, IT OFTEN AFFECTS SOMEONE ELSE, SO IT’S IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS.”
CLINIC FOUNDER, DR.
MEYER SCHOEMAN
estimated 25 per cent of Canadian men between the ages of 40 to 62 are testosterone deficient.
So what’s a guy to do?
Testosterone replacement therapy is a common program offered by the clinic, guided by a symptom-based approach to create a tailored plan for each individual.
“Men’s sexual health issues like erectile dysfunction or testosterone replacement are extremely common, but no one wants to talk about it out of embarrassment,” says Schoeman. “People think that they’re the only ones affected, but that’s not the case.” Although the risk of these conditions may increase with age, Schoeman encourages men to explore treatment options that can help them adjust and improve their lifestyle.
Erectile dysfunction, another prevalent condition associated with age, can be due to a variety of factors that are physical, mental or a combination of
both. Likewise, there are a diverse number of treatment options and support available beyond just medication.
At Precision Sexual Health Clinic, Schoeman along with nurse practitioner Shannon Hutchins offer groundbreaking treatment approaches for erectile dysfunction including shockwave therapy, injection therapy and sex therapy. The former two are procedures designed to increase blood flow, while sex therapy entails counselling that can help address challenges driven by psychological factors like performance anxiety.
“We chalk these issues up to aging, but we don’t have to just accept it,” Schoeman says.
Dr. Meyer Schoeman and nurse practitioner, Shannon Hutchins
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Best Things to Eat
Best Neighbourhoods
BY JACQUIE MOORE
Earlier this year, Alanna Bluebird, a multidisciplinary Blackfoot/Dene artist, performed in Ghost River Theatre’s Echoes of the Land at the 2025 High Performance Rodeo. She did the mesmerizing thing she does with words and poetry, transporting audiences into a reflection of the universe and their connections within it.
Bluebird’s own relationship to Treaty 7 land is deep and rich. After leaving Calgary for a few years and enduring some tough times, she made her way back here, and has been on her healing journey ever since. Her grandfather, Bruce Starlight, is one of only a few fluent Tsuut’ina speakers left on Earth. Learning and using the Tsuut’ina language is of great importance to her and the Tsuut’ina people. So Bluebird spent time helping to revitalize it by developing literacy books for future learners.
Her art also keeps her steady and strong. “I channel my hurt and express myself through photography and poetry, and I use art to help others, too,” she says. Bluebird continues to learn more about herself to refine her superpowers of “talk[ing] too much, too fast, and to really focus when I need to.”
Moving proof of Bluebird’s devotion to language and art is the short film Cut Knife Creek, which she co-directed, produced and animated in collaboration with Making Treaty 7 Cultural Society, Tsúut’ínà Gunáhà Násʔághà and Quickdraw Animation Society. Eight minutes long, the film screened at the Smithsonian Institution’s Mother Tongue Film Festival this past February, plus a few other international screenings.
Right now, Bluebird is working on the biggest project of her career, but she can’t talk about it … yet. She’s hopeful it’ll run on a major streaming service, so stay tuned.
Meanwhile, Bluebird keeps practising Tsuut’ina and, she hopes, inspiring others to express themselves through words, pictures and performance. “When pain is transmitted through art it becomes beautiful,” she says.
Hello, My Name is...
Alanna Bluebird
THE SPOKEN-WORD ARTIST, WRITER, PHOTOGRAPHER AND FILMMAKER USES ART FOR EXPRESSION AND HEALING.
High Five
ALANNA BLUEBIRD’S HIGH FIVE
DRAWING FROM HER INDIGENOUS HERITAGE AND ARTISTRY, SHE SHARES FIVE THINGS THAT SHE LOVES.
1
Stephanie Eagletail
“One of my favourite Indigenous artists is the Dene/Cree fashion designer Stephanie Eagletail. She sews Pendleton coats. I love her style and she’s an inspiring symbol of resilience.”
2
Quillwork
“Quillwork is one of the oldest art forms in North America. My cousin taught me how to do it, and doing it keeps me calm.”
3Tall Hat
“This ‘tall hat’ makes me feel powerful. My ancestors would wear them. When I wear it, I feel I’m representing them during my shows and appearances.”
4 The Four Agreements
“Reading The Four Agreements really changed my perspective on dealing with cyberbullying and lateral violence in my community. It helped me navigate those experiences and reminds me not to take things personally, especially online. There will always be negativity, but it’s given me the tools to handle it better.”
5 Native Tongues
“I love Native Tongues Taqueria. I lived in New Mexico for a while, and Native Tongues is as close to that food as it can be in Calgary; they have the most authentic tacos.”
BY JACQUIE MOORE
how to be good
GRIEVING TOGETHER
BEREAVED PARENTS GET MUCH-NEEDED SUPPORT TO PROCESS THE DEVASTATING LOSS OF THEIR BABIES.
Three summers ago, Nieva Burns gave birth to her daughter, Esther, who died 22 days later from preterm complications.
“She was beautiful and tough, and, other than being tiny [1.2 lbs], she was perfect,” says Burns. Esther’s death was, and is, a shattering experience for Burns and her husband, Paul Rodgers. They struggled to cope with their grief. Eventually, the couple discovered the non-profit Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Centre (PILSC).
Founded by former social worker Aditi Loveridge, PILSC was spurred by Loveridge’s own grief: she miscarried several times before giving birth to her now 11-year-old son. Enduring the physical and emotional pain of those losses, Loveridge was driven to support couples grieving lost pregnancy, infant death or infertility. “Losing a baby is a unique type of loss and the nuances of grief are difficult for others to understand,” she says. “It’s not only the loss of a baby or a pregnancy, but a loss of trust in your body, and a loss of hopes and dreams.”
Following Esther’s death, well-intentioned folks sometimes made comments that unhelpfully dismissed the couple’s sadness. “People said things like, ‘At least you know you can get pregnant,’” says Burns.
As Loveridge explains, “it’s difficult for people in our society to talk about death, especially when it comes to a baby — we want to hurry grief along.”
For Burns, connecting with other lossparents via PILSC was enormously helpful. She says an art-therapy group helped her process emotions “in a gentle way when I wasn’t ready to face it all at once.”
As for friends and family searching for the “right” thing to say, Loveridge suggests going to the next thing you planned to say.
Burns agrees: “Just go straight to ‘I made you a casserole.’ That’s a good place to start.”
ADITI LOVERIDGE, FOUNDER OF THE PREGNANCY AND INFANT LOSS SUPPORT CENTRE
BY OLIVIA PICHÉ
shop talk
CALGARY’S ONE-STOP SPICE SHOP
THE SILK ROAD SPICE MERCHANT FEATURES HUNDREDS OF SPICE BLENDS, CHILES AND HERBS FOR YOUR NEXT SCRATCH-MADE MEAL.
Located on the main drag in the inner-city neighbourhood of Inglewood, The Silk Road
Spice Merchant flagship store welcomes all your senses into its space full of bright, fragrant, fresh and colourful spices.
The Silk Road originated in 2008, after owners Colin Leach and Kelci Hind struggled to find the spices, herbs and chiles they wanted, all in one place. The pair started The Silk Road as an e-commerce site, which quickly grew into an impressive storefront collection of spices.
“We just started to think about how interesting it would be to take spices and treat them like a star ingredient, rather than an afterthought,” says Leach.
Today, you’ll find everything you need online and in-store to create a delicious dish from scratch, from multiple types of cinnamon
and lime peel to a large variety of chiles. The Silk Road is unique in the spice blends it offers, which are created and developed by its team — all 100-plus of them.
Aside from versatility and range, quality is another Silk Road pillar. As much as possible, the spice shop grinds its spices and encourages customers to grind them at home to ensure fresh flavours.
“It’s meant to be a really approachable and welcoming full-service shop for anyone who is even remotely interested in cooking with bright and fresh flavours. Whether you’re a brand-new cook or a professional, our store is meant to be interesting and exciting for absolutely everyone,” says Leach.
1419 9 Ave. S.E., 403-261-1955, silkroadspices.ca, @silkroadspices
made here
SOME LIKE IT HOT SCOTCH FIRE HOT SAUCE
Vincent Fernandes-Miller and Prince Gray were introduced to the scotch bonnet pepper, a staple in Jamaican cuisine, when working as cooks and making hot sauce at Krazy Jerk Jamaican restaurant. Someone suggested they start a hot sauce company of their own. In 2020, they did.
Four-and-a-half years later, their company, Scotch Fire Hot Sauce, offers a range of scotch bonnet-based sauces, pulling inspiration from Caribbean flavours. The mango and original sauces fight for the title of bestseller, but spice lovers will find plenty of unique options, like scotch bonnet ketchup, chocolate hot sauce and a berry blend sauce.
“I wanted to tell everybody [that the] scotch bonnet pepper is not so scary. I thought, ‘What better way than creating a nice hot sauce with a lot of flavour?’” says Fernandes-Miller.
WHERE TO FIND IT Online at scotchfire.ca, @scotchfirehotsauce
MAVEN’S BREAKFAST IN MANILA
Maven is well known as one of the best brunch spots in the city, sporting a menu of homestyle, yet elevated, Asian dishes from owner Mish Hobbs’ childhood and culinary journey. Recently,
THE RICE
Chef Borrega grew up cooking this garlic fried rice with his mom, and everyone who tries it wants to know the recipe. Keeping it simple is best: start with garlic sautéed in garlic oil; add rice, soy sauce, more fried garlic chips and green onion to finish.
THE EGGS AND SLAW
Breakfast isn’t complete without eggs, so Borrega adds soft-scrambled eggs as well as a shaved red-and-green onion slaw to take the dish over the top.
Leroy Borrega took over the kitchen after a previous position overseeing Shokunin, and he’s bringing his own Filipino heritage to the menu, including fine-dining dinners. Here, Borrega
THE SAUCE
For more tang, add the calamansi and cane vinegar sauce that comes on the side.
breaks down one of his favourite brunch dishes showcasing Filipino flavours, Breakfast in Manila. 1006 17 Ave. S.W., 403-457-7898, mavenbrunch.ca, @maven_yyc
THE SAUSAGE
A take on Filipino longanisa, the sausage is made in-house and seasoned with (more) garlic, onion and some secret ingredients. The star of the show is the anato seed, which gives the sausage its red colour and umami-rich flavour.
Try this and other delicious dishes at Maven and its sister restaurants, Brekkie, @brekkieyyc and Sammie Cafe, @sammieyyc.
THE CONDIMENT
To cut through the richness, Borrega adds achara — papaya and carrots pickled with Filipino cane vinegar.
PHOTO BY CHRIS LANDRY
Your smile is a true work of art.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is associated with tooth loss, bad breath, infections of the mouth, loss of jaw bone, and other health problems. Periodontists are specialists in treatment of gum disease, and can help you restore your smile to the masterpiece that it is. Contact a periodontist today at albertaperiodontists.ca
Alberta Academy of Periodontics
The Fun-Things-To-Do List
MAY
Drink Up at Calgary International Beerfest
May 2 to 3
Alberta Beer Festival’s largest event makes its way back to Calgary. Get your tickets and sample beers, spirits, ciders, food and more from breweries and distilleries around Canada and internationally. albertabeerfestivals.com
Buy Some Books
Stock your shelves as high as you like by shopping at two huge book sales, the Calgary Reads Big Book Sale, May 9 to 19 (bigbooksale.ca) and RESET Society’s book sale, May 1 to 4 and 9 to 11 (resetcalgary.ca/calgarybooksale).
Go for a Run
Running enthusiasts can join the Servus Calgary Marathon (calgarymarathon.com), Canada’s longest-running marathon, on May 24 and 25. But, if you’re just looking for a casual running crew, Offline Wellness Club, YYC Run Crew and BIPOC Run Club are options to try.
Cheer on the Calgary Surge
Our homegrown basketball team has its first home game of the season against the Winnipeg Sea Bears at Winsport on May 25. calgarysurge.ca
JUNE
Attend Lilac Festival
June 1
The 4th Street festival helps kick off Calgary’s spring festival season, hosting more than 70 musicians, entertainers and performances across six stages, alongside more than 500 market vendors. lilacfestival.net
Raft Down the River
Grab your raft, life jacket and oars, or rent all of the above and start your summer season the Calgary way with a float down the Elbow or Bow rivers. Consult the City’s River Access map for start and end points. maps.calgary.ca/RiverAccess
Jam Out at Sled Island
June 18 to 22
Japanese punk foursome Otoboke Beaver, who perform at Sled Island on June 21 at The Palace Theatre, are the guest curators of the annual five-day music and arts festival. sledisland.com
Work Out at a City Fit Park
Take your workout outdoors to a City fitness park. Equipment varies, but can include chin-up bars, push-up stations and seated leg presses. calgary.ca/parks/outdoor-fitness-equipment
FOR A BETTER CALGARY
From cybersecurity, gaming and experimentation centres to job-seeking, home-building, funding new ideas and more, Calgary has a concentration of changemakers who are continually updating traditional processes with out-of-the-box innovations.
ILLUSTRATIONS BY MATEUSZ NAPIERALSKI PHOTOS BY JARED SYCH
10 INNOVATORS
OF THE YEAR avenue’s
From fintech and agtech to medical advancements and community building, these are amazing Calgarians making a significant impact on the city.
BY TSERING ASHA, MOFE ADENIRAN, KENDALL BISTRETZAN AND CHRIS LANDRY
Cultivating Community in the
When Philippe Burns was a customer experience team lead at Neo Financial in 2020, part of his job was to create a 50-person team to help onboard half a million new Neo/Hudson’s Bay Mastercard customers in just four months. After a promotion to talent marketing lead, Burns was helping Neo hire more senior-level tech staff when he noticed a lack of social and networking events for the tech community at large.
So, Burns created Tech Thursday, a weekly community networking event series. In July 2024, Burns left Neo (at that point, he was the lead, external relations) to co-found Tech Thursday as its own company, with Neo as the title sponsor for its events. Tech Thursday events currently run in both Calgary and Winnipeg.
In Calgary, Tech Thursday usually meets at The Pioneer and averages around 100 attendees per event. Each event focuses on one of four topic pillars: business, technical know-how, local trends and DEI. Past events have focused on innovations in hydrogen, the impact of AI and mental health tech, along with featured panels and fireside chats with various organizations. The company has city-specific steering committees that generate event and topic ideas. Around 65 per cent of the audience are senior-level tech managers, Csuite executives and founders, with the rest being mostly intermediate and junior tech workers.
“What we wanted to create is this environment where you could go meet with your peers, learn from what they were building and creating, and really showcase some of the awesome work being done in these two communities,” says Burns. —T.A.
WHAT’S NEXT? Tech Thursday plans to launch in Ottawa and Edmonton by mid-2025.
UNLEASH YOUR CURIOSITY
Dr. Nausheen Sadiq’s, PhD, research at Mount Royal University is revolutionizing how we test skin products — creating safer, more inclusive solutions for everyone. If you’re ready to explore, create and lead, there’s no better place to develop your innovative mindset than MRU.
Reducing the Struggles of Living
Paycheque to Paycheque
In his early 20s, Tate Hackert, flush from a commercial fishing gig, took it upon himself to offer short-term loans to strangers after seeing some struggle between paycheques. With that, in 2016, fintech company ZayZoon was launched.
ZayZoon is an earned-wage startup, meaning the company partners with small- and medium-sized businesses to help them provide a percentage of earned wage access to employees at any time, outside of traditional pay periods.
While founded by three individuals passionate about accelerating the tech scene in Calgary — CSO Hackert, plus Darcy Tuer, CEO, and
“Since the beginning, it’s always been our plan to be in Canada.”
Jamie Ha, CFO — ZayZoon was first adopted in the U.S. in 2017 after the trio decided, on a whim, to sponsor a payroll conference in the U.S. There, they met hundreds of individuals and companies interested and eager to adopt ZayZoon’s services.
ZayZoon has maintained a strong presence in the U.S. since, growing to more than 180 employees, raising US$68 million and partnering with or giving its services to more than 10,000 small- and mid-sized businesses across the U.S.
Last year, ZayZoon finally had its homecoming when it expanded to Canada, thanks to a partnership with Scotiabank.
“Since the beginning, it’s always been our plan to be in Canada,” says Hackert. “We know this product is needed here as much as it has been needed in the U.S.” —T.A.
Veterinarians and vet technologists are struggling. In rural or small urban settings, they are almost always on call, even when their clinics are closed. With limited work-from-home options, work-life balance is exceptionally difficult to achieve.
Animal HealthLink’s teletriage service is changing that. The company, co-founded in Calgary by registered vet technologist Leilani Mustillo and veterinarian Sean Neate, provides services to vet practices and their clients in remote and rural locations and urban centres of all sizes. Animal owners can call anytime and speak with experienced veterinary medical professionals for advice. “[Owners] have someone to talk to instead of just Dr. Google to determine if their animal is actually really sick,” says Neate, the company’s chief medical officer. Owners can then confidently decide if their animal needs to see a vet. The service also benefits vet clinics — 80 per cent of after-hours calls Animal HealthLink receives are not true emergencies, and can therefore be seen during regular business hours.
Last year, Animal HealthLink and Veterinarians Without Borders North America (with funding from PetSmart Charities of Canada) launched the first veterinary telehealth program for the remote communities of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, where very few veterinary practices exist. The program expanded to include the Jasper Veterinary Clinic to support its community during the Alberta wildfires.
ANIMAL HEALTHLINK CO-FOUNDERS LEILANI MUSTILLO , CEO, AND SEAN NEATE , CMO, ARE AS PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR ANIMAL PATIENTS AS THEY ARE CONCERNED FOR THEIR FELLOW INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS.
“In this day and age, there’s no reason not to use technology to our advantage to improve access to care in areas where there is little to no veterinary care,” says Mustillo. —T.A.
NEED TO KNOW Since 2021, Animal HealthLink has handled more than 400,000 calls for animal patients across Canada and the U.S.
Hong Phuc Nguyen grew up surrounded by female entrepreneurs. “In my hometown in Vietnam, most of the owners, shop runners, even we [who] run the country, run the household, are women,” says Nguyen. So, she didn't expect the struggle of landing a permanent job when she moved to Canada in 2020 — especially since she was armed with an MBA and international career experience. That spurred her to create a hiring solution to help newcomers and employers, alike.
In 2022, she launched Kibbi, a multilingual job board and app. Kibbi addresses numerous barriers newcomers face, ranging from location to language. There’s a map feature to see job postings near you, automatically generated cover letters tailored to job descriptions, an “invite to apply” feature for employers, AI-generated translations of job descriptions and chats, upskilling resources, and more.
“Our vision is a world where anyone, regardless of background, can effortlessly start contributing to and finding a sense of belonging in their new community from Day 1,” says Nguyen.
In Kibbi’s first nine months, Nguyen raised $875,000 from angel investors and venture capitalists. Additional funding support from organizations such as Alberta Innovates and the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program brought the total to more than $1.1 million. In 2023, Nguyen received Immigrant Services Calgary’s Immigrants of Distinction Award for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. In 2024, Kibbi expanded to more than 30 universities and colleges through a joint venture with Devant, an ondemand career service portal that helps international students seeking jobs in Canada. T.A.
NEED TO KNOW Since 2022, more than 48,000 job-seekers and 1,600 small businesses have used Kibbi
cea.bowvalleycollege.ca/making-it-happen
Advancing gender equity in Tech
In 2023, Avenue spoke to Toast co-founders April Hicke (chief growth officer) and Marissa McNeelands (CEO). That was shortly after they launched their organization, which supports the advancement of women in technology by helping job-seekers and hiring companies find and hire more women in tech. At that time, the duo had already secured 27 partnerships with organizations such as Helcim, AltaML and PurposeMed.
Today, Toast is part of the 1.9 per cent of women-owned businesses that have achieved more than $1 million in revenue. Toast has secured partnerships with more than 125 clients across Canada and the U.S., including some of the countries’ biggest tech companies. It’s welcomed more than 1,600 members (and added more than 10,000 women into their talent pool), and hosted more than 200 events. Bottom line, Toast has helped put more women into roles in the Canadian tech sector and change the conversation about bias in hiring.
In 2024, Toast expanded twice. First, Toast launched chapters in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago. In Canada, Toast launched Champions, a twice-yearly sponsorship program where male tech professionals are paired with Toast members whom they sponsor in the workplace through advocacy, support and guidance.
“The main difference between a mentor and a sponsor is that a sponsor is someone who raises your hand for you when you're not in the room,” says Hicke. “That allyship should cost [the sponsor] something — time, money, social capital. Whatever that means to show up as an ally, sponsors show up for you in that way.” —T.A.
NEED TO KNOW Toast won the Digital Talent Champion Award at the 2024 Start Alberta Tech Awards. REPORTS SAY THE GENDER PAY GAP IN CANADA'S TECH SECTOR TRIPLED FROM 2016 TO 2021. TOAST CO-FOUNDERS MARISSA MCNEELANDS AND APRIL HICKE ARE DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT.
Creating Affordable and Accessible
Wound-Care Technology
As we age, our body’s ability to heal weakens. That can lead to a host of issues including chronic health conditions, amputation and even death. Chemical and software engineer Julian Mulia lost both his parents to chronic health conditions, a challenging experience that inspired him to help others. In 2020, Mulia teamed up with his spouse, Megan Leslie, a former management consulting colleague, to launch NanoTess — a values-based social enterprise that creates affordable and accessible catalytic medical innovations.
Mulia explains that treating chronic conditions at home can drastically increase quality of life for people with limited access to hospitals. It also helps minimize the shame associated with these conditions. “It’s a silent pandemic because you’re not going around telling people [about your condition],” says Mulia. “It’s a very personal problem, which, left untreated, can cascade into worse comorbidities.”
NanoTess’s award-winning NanoSALV Catalytic advanced wound-care treatment matrix targets persistent skin wounds that are injured, inflamed or infected. Now used in Alberta’s health system, the salve has helped achieve a 46-per cent reduction in wound-care costs and a 56-per cent increase in healing rate for patients with chronic wounds that had not healed in almost two years.
Paramedics with Alberta Health Services’ Mobile Integrated Health division found that, when patients experiencing homelessness were given the salve, their wounds significantly healed within weeks.
“We design products for the 99 per cent, not just the one per cent,” says Leslie. “That means getting them into the hands of people who need them.” —K. B.
NEED TO KNOW NanoSALV Catalytic was used to successfully close a 13-year-old open wound.
Buying a new home that matches your tastes and budget can be challenging, expensive and time-consuming. But it doesn't have to be. That’s where ResVR comes in.
ResVR digitizes homebuilders' catalogues into virtual layouts and floor plans so that homebuyers can easily see what their house will look like when it's fully built. Using precise graphics technology detailing everything from the style of railings to the type of oven, a digitized catalogue lets prospective buyers tour homes virtually.
If buyers don’t see what they’re looking for when touring a show home, they typically move on to another builder, explains founder and CEO Nathan Nasseri, who has an extensive background and education in video game design.
Nasseri’s software allows buyers to see multiple house designs in one location and add customization and upgrades during the virtual tour.
“We’re taking the principle of character customization [from video games],” says Nasseri. “You customize the character based on how you want to resonate and engage with the game, except it’s for houses.”
Last year, ResVR raised $1.7 million in seed funding, and Nasseri was one of six winners at the prestigious Inventures 2024 Startup Pitch Competition, taking home $10,000. He has also completed nearly every tech catalyzer in Alberta, including Alberta Catalyzer, 500 Global, Plug and Play, and Creative Destruction Lab - Rockies.
The software officially launches this year in the Microsoft app store. Nasseri plans to expand ResVR to include home-exterior, condominium and whole-neighbourhood customizations. —C.L.
PLATFORM CALGARY
The history of Platform Calgary traces back to 1981 through Calgary Technologies Inc., but Platform as people know it today started in March 2019. Platform helps entrepreneurs bring their innovative ideas to life. Core services, like access to the Platform Calgary Innovation Centre, mentoring opportunities and community events, are free or low-cost. Membership options and paid programs are offered, too. The Platform Incubator helps highpotential startups grow over 12 months through structured guidance, coaching, peer learning and industry connections. Additional programs provide various stages of startups and founders with business know-how, connections and resources to scale up operations and access funding opportunities.
“The number of social connections that an entrepreneur has can predict how big, and how fast, they can grow,” says Platform Calgary president and CEO Terry Rock . “Simply, more connectivity is better for someone who’s building something.”
key connectors
OPPORTUNITY CALGARY INVESTMENT FUND
Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF) is a $100-million publicly funded entity established in 2018 by The City of Calgary and managed by Calgary Economic Development (CED). OCIF identifies and supports economic opportunities that benefit Calgary’s long-term economic future through investment, job creation and training opportunities in the private, non-profit and public sectors.
OCIF implements a “very strong metric” for receiving capital once a company is approved for funding, says Brad Parry, president and CEO of CED and CEO of OCIF. Applicants must show evidence of the business’ scalability and potential economic impact before funding can be released.
“Whether its job creation or ecosystem development, funds are milestone-based,” says Parry.
Calgary receives $9 back for every dollar invested by the fund, and OCIF activities have helped propel $800 million in economic activity.
ALBERTA INNOVATES
Alberta Innovates is a provincially funded agency that funds projects in industries like agriculture and forestry, emerging technologies, data science and clean tech. It also offers programs that aid entrepreneurs, like the Micro Voucher Program, Industry Commercialization Associates Program and the Scaleup Growth Accelerator Program.
Alberta Innovates also supports scientific research by providing applied research and testing services through InnoTech Alberta and C-FER Technologies’ labs. Clients can find out if services are available that would support testing and validating their technologies, such as high-pressure testing facilities, energy system simulations, carbon capture and storage validation, or agricultural technology.
“By having InnoTech and C-FER working within the industry, we have an end-toend platform that’s complementary to the entire innovation ecosystem,” says Doug Holt, former associate vice-president of capital development at Alberta Innovates. MEET SOME OF THE STRATEGIC ORGANIZATIONS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF CALGARY’S TECH ECOSYSTEM.
MORE INNOVATION
ORGANIZATIONS
Creative Destruction LabsRockies helps startups raise capital and provides mentorship.
The 51 Ventures Inc. helps women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs access capital.
Rainforest Alberta promotes an inclusive culture of innovation.
The A100 connects members to a community of knowledgeable entrepreneurs.
MRU Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship delivers communityengaged learning experiences to students.
THE CALGARY STAMPEDE IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE CHAMPIONS OF THE 2025 STAMPEDE CELLAR SHOWDOWN INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION, SHOWCASING THE BEST-OF-THE-BEST IN CANADIAN AND INTERNATIONAL WINE.
Sip, swirl and savour the top wines of the 2025 Stampede Cellar Showdown, with the best bites provincial restauranteurs have to offer, at Stampede Cellar Uncorked on May 31, 2025 and at the Stampede Cellar Champion Wine Experience at The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, July 4 – 13, 2025!
GRAND CHAMPION
CedarCreek Estate VQA Chardonnay 2021
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION Bodegas LAN Rioja Gran Reserva 2016
Digital Experience Design
Alberta’s only DXD major prepares you to lead the way in designing solutions for everyday life. Apply Now at MacEwan.ca/DXD
Discover the brand-new Savannah Crossing building and the newly refreshed Savannah Plains habitats in Destination Africa. Explore the dynamic new spaces, featuring new and enhanced viewing points, offering a closer look at where diverse species meet, interact, and share their world. In these mixed-species habitats, zebras, ostriches, and African grey crowned cranes live together, while the giraffe tower may also roam Savannah Plains (weather permitting).
Every ticket to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo supports conservation efforts. Visit CalgaryZoo.com to learn more.
BY XIMENA GONZÁLEZ
A New Wave of City Building
THE WAVE TECH CENTRE EMPOWERS MUNICIPAL STAFF TO LEARN ABOUT AND TEST NEW, CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES BEFORE ADOPTION TO CREATE ADAPTIVE PROCESSES FOR THE FAST PACE OF INNOVATION.
The days when experimentation and technological innovation took place in isolation are gone. Today, new technologies emerge all around us, and cities are best positioned to capitalize on this trend.
One of the latest additions to Calgary’s tech ecosystem is the Wave Tech Centre, which opened in October 2024. The City-led facility is a stark departure from the bureaucracy that characterizes governments.
“We want this to be a place where we have regular talks about emerging technologies, about what disruptors are happening and what we are ready for,” says Jason Cameron, program manager of storytelling, engagement and experimentation at The City of Calgary’s information technology business unit. Pointing at the critical role the 2023 Smart Calgary Strategy played in shaping the Wave Tech Centre’s vision, Cameron says that “we’re part of the spectrum of the digital transition of our city.”
Cloistered by the smooth concrete walls of the Andrew Davison Building in downtown Calgary, municipal staff, post-secondary institutions and professionals in the tech and innovation industry can test, pilot, experiment and collaborate at the Centre. Its cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, quantum computing and robotic fabrication, can help solve age-old problems like finding potholes that need fixing, improving accessibility in public spaces or gaining buy-in from neighbours in the face of a redevelopment proposal.
Currently, students from the University of Calgary’s School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape are testing the capabilities of a robotic arm for 3D concrete printing. The three-year project is looking to apply this to City applications like concrete jersey barriers, park benches, pavers and accessible ramps.
Jersey barriers are often used to protect roadconstruction work from passing vehicles. Producing them on-site reduces the high cost of transportation and storage and allows students to be part of city building.
But the impact of the Wave Tech Centre goes well beyond robo-fabrication.
A City team is also piloting virtual reality equipment to help train building inspectors and learn what to require in potential future requests for proposals (RFPs) for a VR-training service.
“What we’re doing is scalable,” Cameron says. “So, if we develop an AI bot for [City customer service line] 311, then we can share that with Okotoks or Cochrane. Sharing the experience, the opportunities and the learnings is a big piece of the Wave Tech Centre.”
The 2023 Smart Calgary Strategy lays the groundwork to accelerate the adoption of innovative tools that improve the lives of all Calgarians and has enabled the creation of several City-led initiatives, including the Wave Tech Centre.
How to Hold Off a Hack
IN OCTOBER 2024, THE CALGARY PUBLIC LIBRARY THWARTED A MAJOR CYBERSECURITY BREACH. THE WAY IT HANDLED THINGS COULD BE A ROAD MAP FOR OTHER PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. BUT WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENED?
Last year’s cyberattack on the Calgary Public Library (CPL) would have made a lousy heist film. After all, the hackers ended up with bupkis. The incident would have made an excellent training video, however. On what was arguably the institution’s worst day, the library did everything right.
The CPL’s digital guard dogs started barking on the afternoon of Oct. 10, 2024. Cybersecurity staff received a notification alerting them to a malware attack on the library’s computer network. “Malware is code that’s basically there to do harm,” says Jim Chisholm, the CPL’s chief technology officer and director of technology. “It enables a threat actor like a hacker to get into your system and start doing bad things.”
Libraries worldwide have faced a spate of such break-ins over the last few years. In October 2023, hackers attacked the British Library, the Library of Congress and the Toronto Public Library. Attackers hit Hamilton Public Library’s system the following February. Hackers target such public institutions in an attempt to steal personal information or hold control of the systems for ransom. The gang who attacked the British Library, for example, demanded 600,000 British pounds in cryptocurrency. When the library refused to pay,
the hackers published nearly a half million documents containing personal information on the dark web. It was a year before the British Library restored full access to its printed collections, and its sound archive and digital theses resources still haven’t been repaired.
The CPL’s cybersecurity apparatus remains constantly vigilant for such attacks. “We have systems that continually look for the signature
"It's less about 'if' an organization will be attacked, it's when."
Jim Chisholm, CPL chief technology officer
of malware code on our systems,” Chisholm says. He likens the library's cybersecurity systems to that of a bank. Just as a bank’s alarm will sound when thieves break a window or force open a door — long before they ever reach the vault — an automatic notification gets sent out to all the members of the library’s IT team the moment malware is detected. And this isn’t necessarily uncommon. Occasionally, a staff member might accidentally trigger something the system doesn’t understand and set the guard dogs off. For example, if an em-
ployee innocently clicked a link that silently redirected to a potentially malicious website, the cyberdefense systems would be alerted. “I’d say, almost 90 per cent of the time, you check and see it’s something minor,” Chisholm says.
Not this time. As soon as the alarms went off, Chisholm and his team assessed the severity of the attack and the significance of the threat actor. “Is this someone in their basement getting lucky, or are we being attacked by something more sinister and larger and sophisticated?” asks Chisholm. The complexity of the October hacker’s malware scripts revealed a worst-case scenario. “We were being attacked by a sophisticated professional organization, and up against something that has got some significant capability,” he says. Fortunately, the playbook for such an attack had already been written almost two years earlier — even before Chisholm joined CPL in March 2024. Businesses constantly face cyberattacks. This is the new reality. “It’s less about ‘if’ an organization will be attacked, it's when,” Chisholm says. Organizations need modern, sophisticated defences, along with plans for when the defences are breached. “These playbooks help reduce the confusion and anxiety during an attack and greatly reduce the time to recover,” Chisholm affirms.
CPL staff simply had to execute the plan that
6 WEEK
TIMELINE
OCTOBER 10
Calgary Public Library staff is alerted to an attempted hack.
OCTOBER 11
Staff across the city turn off every computer in every branch and close early to the public; investigators begin physically examining each of the thousands of devices in the CPL system.
OCTOBER 16
Libraries reopen with limited services, including no Wi-Fi; library staff start to check out books with pen and paper.
640,000
individual items checked out manually during the six weeks.
NOVEMBER 21
Members can access their accounts and locations begin to accept and process holds and returns.
was already in place. They didn’t hesitate. By Oct. 11, library staff across the city turned off every computer in every branch. They also informed patrons they had to leave and locked the doors behind them. The only surefire way to stop such an attack is to shut everything down.
In some ways, library staff had been there before. “We’re battletested,” says CPL CEO Sarah Meilleur. Many had worked during the 2013 flood when library branches needed to abruptly close. Many more employees worked during the pandemic, managing the multiple closures, openings and restrictions. “We became very adept at working to provide as much service to the community as we could within the restrictions that were available, and working to keep everyone safe,” Meilleur says. “Our teams are really committed to the work that we do to serve the community and [are] also flexible and resilient.”
Thanks to the quick work of CPL staff, the hackers never breached the library’s “vault” of information. No patron or staff data was compromised. The heist was a bust. But much work remained. The library needed time to ensure its system was secure and that malware wasn’t still lurking on a hard drive somewhere. Investigators physically examined each of the more than 2,000
devices in the CPL system. Every single public computer was wiped and rebuilt with a new operating system. Servers were assessed and cleaned. This process took several weeks.
In the meantime, the CPL system reopened five days after the alert, and served patrons as best they could. Services came back in cautious stages. No Wi-Fi was available at the branches at first. E-books were available, but, for physical books, patrons were asked to ignore due dates and avoid returning books.
With their computers down, librarians checked out books the old-fashioned way, by writing down library card numbers and bar codes in a ledger. According to Meilleur, 640,000 individual items were checked out during the six-week ordeal. By the end of December, a majority of library services had returned, but not all.
For Meilleur, the cyberattack revealed the library’s importance to its vast community. More than 818,000 Calgarians, or 57 per cent of the city’s population, according to CPL, are active library members. Meilleur feels nothing but gratitude towards them. “Love and thanks to Calgarians for their patience and support of their library,” she says. “And for showing all the library love.”
DECEMBER 11
Public Wi-Fi is available again at all library locations.
MID-TO-LATE DECEMBER
Full services return to branches in stages; libraries are up and running normally by the new year.
BY RILEY FONGER
Bow Valley College Bears Burst Into Esports
Esports, short for electronic sports, are video games played in a highly organized and competitive environment. The concept goes back to 1980 with the first official and registered event, a tournament for the 1978 arcade game Space Invaders, that attracted 10,000 players. As of 2023, Esports has grown into a US$1.72-billion market.
Esports has now found a home in Calgary at Bow Valley College (BVC), which is taking on this booming industry in a three-pronged approach: with the city’s first-ever esports arena, a variety of collegiate level Esports teams and an Esports Business Management Diploma.
“If we can get even a small part of the industry, then we’re going to create opportunities for people here,” says Misheck Mwaba, BVC’s president and CEO.
BVC’s 3,500-square-foot Esports arena is a physical space on campus equipped with 40 PC gaming stations, two racing simulators and 18 gaming consoles (including Xbox, Nintendo
"If we can get even a small part of the industry, then we're going to create opportunities..."
Misheck Mwaba, BVC president
and PlayStation). It’s also outfitted with adaptive gaming controllers and racing simulators that can be operated without pedals, a state-ofthe-art broadcast suite, and a varsity Esports training room for team practices.
The Bow Valley College Bears recently joined the National Association of Collegiate Esports, has established varsity teams for games such as Valorant and League of Legends and has plans for a Super Smash Bros. team. As interest grows, the school plans to add other competitive games like Fortnite, Rocket League, EA SPORTS FC 25 and Street Fighter
“We’ve been scrimmaging with Mount Royal University [and] the U of C team,” says Nick Olmstead, Bears Varsity Valorant coach
and Esports program student. “We’re trying to stay in the collegiate space.”
BVC has looked at leagues with which to establish relationships at the provincial, national and international level, says Eddie Sargent, associate dean, Chiu School of Business. “There’s a big interest in all of those pieces,”he says.
But Esports at BVC isn’t just an opportunity to sit around and play video games. There’s also the new Esports Business Management Diploma, a two-year program consisting of 14 business classes and six esports managementspecific classes geared toward careers in Esports, video games, video game business and technology companies.
A key component of the program is the Indie Ignition Accelerator, a mentorship and pitch program that funds entrepreneurs with innovative ideas in the Esports space.
“What we are hoping for is that we are paving the way, because we are supporting not only the students who come to get the skills, but we’re also supporting those entrepreneurs who have got desires of developing their own companies,” says Mwaba.
BOW VALLEY COLLEGE IS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF ESPORTS IN CALGARY WITH ITS STATE-OF-THE-ART ARENA, VARSITY TEAMS AND ESPORTS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT DIPLOMA.
BY OLIVIA PICHÉ
INNOVATION ECONOMY rolling the dice on alberta's
THESE ASSOCIATIONS, VENTURE CAPITALISTS AND STARTUP COMPANIES ARE WILLING TO GO ALL-IN ON OUR INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM.
Calgary is known for its driven entrepreneurs with world-changing ideas. It’s ranked among the top 50 ecosystems in the world for emerging start-ups. Still, it’s money that gets ideas up and running. Securing funding to make those ideas a reality can be a difficult feat. Enter venture capital (VC), early stage financing for start-up companies with longterm potential.
There are many reasons VC funding can come into play. Sometimes it’s because banks aren’t prepared to lend funds. Other times, highly established investors are wary of risk. Or, founders have raised all they can from friends and family. Venture capitalists look to take a chance on early ideas in the hope of a return on their investment. Alan Campbell, chair of the Venture Capital Association of Alberta (VCAA), says VC is often referred to as risk capital — a high-risk, high-reward asset class. As with most investments, venture capitalists take on some of that initial risk when they provide capital to early stage companies.
“Venture capitalists aim to find the most promising entrepreneurs who have deep domain expertise and a passion for their business,” says Campbell. “They back those entrepreneurs with both capital and valueadded support.”
CREATING THE RIGHT CONDITIONS FOR VENTURE CAPITAL DEALS
Partnering with the right venture capitalist is vital for entrepreneurs — they’re along for the ride for a long time. This is part of what the VCAA helps facilitate. It’s one of the many
different players in Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. VCAA helps companies connect with support and capital opportunities that will enable them to scale to their full potential and also helps founders and investors find the right partnerships.
“VCAA aims to make it easier for the right founders to connect with the right investors,” says Campbell. “We create curated opportunities for our members to learn about and meet with founders whose companies meet their investment thesis. This means matching by stage, sector and also fit.”
The association hosts networking events to
facilitate introductions between venture capitalists and entrepreneurs. It also has various programs to educate and expand its members’ knowledge of the current VC landscape and opportunities in Alberta. As VCAA celebrates 25 years, it’s hopeful that innovation will make for a better future in Alberta.
“We see the innovation ecosystem as a key way to build a more diverse economy in the province,” says Campbell. “Every aspect of the future everyone dreams of has an element of technological innovation, and Alberta has the right tools to be not only part of that positive change, but a driving force.”
SOME MORE MAJOR PLAYERS
VCAA also works closely with Alberta Enterprise Corporation (AEC). AEC was established in 2008 by the Government of Alberta to promote and provide more access to capital and investments in Alberta.
Unlike VCAA, AEC does some actual investing. As a limited partner, AEC invests in VC funds with proven track records of success and commitment to Alberta. AEC’s funds and its partners have invested more than $1.2 billion
"The relationship is one of the most important parts of the decision-making process for VCs."
JAMES LOCHRIE, THIN AIR LABS
into Alberta companies.
Another source of funding is the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), established in 2018 by The City of Calgary and managed by Calgary Economic Development (CED). The funding tool supports start-ups, entrepreneurs, VC firms and other ecosystem builders. OCIF has allocated more than $80 million to different projects and parties across the city, including Thin Air Labs, a venture capital firm that invests in local start-ups.
WHEN VENTURE CAPITALISTS MEET ENTREPRENEURS
Just as entrepreneurs pitch themselves to venture capitalists, VC firms also look for startups that fit their portfolios. “The nuance in this decision is typically a personal preference about the partnership between the founders and the VC,” says James Lochrie, managing partner of Thin Air Labs. “Since these investments can take up to 10 years to mature, VCs bet on founders they want to work with. The relationship is one of the most important parts of the decision-making process for VCs.”
Thin Air Labs, a member of the VCAA, invests in companies at pre-seed and seed stages (which means before and during the earliest round of funding, respectively). At these stages, start-ups have yet to solidly establish their business and come with a little more risk.
“It's okay to approach investors before you are ready to start developing a relationship,” says Lochrie. “But if an entrepreneur is meeting an investor for the express purpose of landing an investment from them, they better have everything in order, because the investment process is designed to weed out weak hands.”
TANGIBLE LOCAL IMPACTS
In 2022, Thin Air Labs received $4 million from OCIF to kick-start its Fund I. The $20-million
THE STATS ON THIS RISKY BUSINESS
Between 2021 and 2023, the tech sector contributed $8.1 billion in value to the Calgary economy.
In the first half of 2024, Calgary placed third among major Canadian cities for VC dollars and deals. This is the first time Calgary has surpassed Vancouver.
In 2024, Calgary secured $630 million across 63 deals.
In 2024, Calgary attracted 75 per cent of Alberta’s VC deals.
venture fund has now invested in more than 20 start-ups, about half of which are in the health sector.
Through Fund I, Thin Air Labs has invested in a handful of companies in the health sector like NanoTess, a start-up that developed advanced wound-care treatments (read more about NanoTess on page 40. “When someone is suffering from an ailment like this, they only have one dream in life — to be healthy,” says Lochrie. “When NanoTess’s product grants that wish, that person can be free to dream about anything they want. This is the type of impact we want to create with our investments, because we believe it will also create significant investment returns.”
CALGARY AS A GROWING HUB
It’s clear Calgarians benefit from a thriving innovation ecosystem, and it’s only growing. In the first half of 2024, Calgary placed third among major Canadian cities for VC dollars and deals. Notably, this was also the first time Calgary surpassed Vancouver.
“Rapid growth in the venture capital market is shaping Calgary’s future as a global destination for innovation,” says Brad Parry, president and CEO of CED and CEO of OCIF. “The recent surge in our investment landscape reflects strong confidence in our talent, infrastructure and Calgary’s limitless opportunities.”
Although Calgary is seeing a surge in VC investment growth and headlining deals, innovation and a trailblazing mentality have always lived here.
“Alberta is home to a population of resilient, hard-working, entrepreneurial individuals. It's in the DNA of the province,” says Campbell. “What's really special about Alberta, though, is the willingness and openness to support one another. The sense of collaboration and community has helped this province flourish, and we see that as one of the main drivers of the surging VC activity in the province.”
"Rapid growth in the venture capital market is shaping Calgary's future as a destination for innovation."
BRAD PARRY, CED AND OCIF
LEADERS IN
Innovation is all around us. From supporting the gravity-defying developments happening in the aerospace ecosystem and evolving holistic prostate cancer care to optimizing aging in senior residences and care homes through research and award-winning design, organizations in the city lead the way in forward-thinking to make critical advancements.
This incredible work is what makes Calgary an innovation centre to be envied. Read on to see how some of Calgary’s big thinkers forge new paths, locally and beyond.
BRINGING INNOVATION TO CONTINUING CARE
The Brenda Strafford Foundation’s research and innovation centre focuses on creating impact to support societal issues like aging well.
For 50 years, The Brenda Strafford Foundation (BSF) has been guided by its founding principle — giving back to the community to optimize well-being. Today, it continues to be a leader of innovation in the community through its senior living facilities and domestic violence shelter in the city, along with its international health programs at clinics in Jamaica, Haiti and Dominica. As the foundation enters its second half century, it’s redoubling its efforts to help solve some of society’s most pressing issues.
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
At the core of that mission is the foundation’s Dr. Barrie Strafford Centre for Learning Innovation and Quality (CLIQ). The centre opened in 2023 as a dedicated research and innovation arm to support the foundation’s various initiatives and facilities. CLIQ partners with academics, research institutes and businesses to drive innovation across the sectors BSF provides services for, including aging care, prevention of domestic violence and international healthcare.
“What makes CLIQ different from other organizations is our focus on innovation,” says Catherine Laing, CLIQ’s vicepresident. “We are truly the only group in Alberta, and probably even in Canada, that has such a large resource dedicated to innovation and research for these sectors.”
DEVELOPING BEST PRACTICES
The foundation operates four care homes in Calgary and one in Okotoks, allowing CLIQ to not just undertake research in an academic sense, but also to directly apply innovative ideas and technology that improve quality of life at those homes. The introduction of drum circles as an activity at BSF care homes, for example, has
provided numerous benefits to residents and staff. Laing and her team have studied the effects of drum circles and found they have helped foster a sense of community and help calm residents. CLIQ has since published a drumming toolkit with research findings, along with resources and tips for other organizations to use.
“Not only are we bringing this information forward for best practice for our sites, but we share this information with other organizations across Canada, and we've built a very good ecosystem that we share these best practices with,” says Laing.
COMING UP WITH SOLUTIONS
CLIQ has also partnered with Best Buy Canada on a project centred around smart condos and integrating technology into the living spaces of independent seniors to help them age in place longer. Laing points out that as the proportion of people residing in assisted living facilities or receiving in-home care goes up, questions of how best to support Canada’s aging population are more important than ever. That’s precisely why The Brenda Strafford Foundation carries out the work that it does — to help come up with effective solutions.
“We know that the population is aging, and that we won’t have enough spaces in continuing care by 2030,” says Laing. “The population is looking for innovation; they're looking for ways they can stay in their home longer, and how they can be as healthy as possible, for as long as possible.”
To learn more about BSF, visit thebsf.ca. For more about CLIQ, visit goinnovate.ca.
Catherine Laing
Celebrating 50 Years of Impact and Innovation
The Brenda Strafford Foundation is dedicated to advancing care, wellness, and social impact through Aging Care & Senior Living, Community Supports, International Healthcare, and Research & Innovation.
Learn more about our Aging Care & Senior Living services at BSFlifestyles.ca
CONTINUALLY PROVIDING IMPROVED PATIENT CARE
The Prostate Cancer Centre offers innovative and evolving comprehensive healthcare, all under one roof.
For the last 25 years, the Prostate Cancer Centre (PCC) has been one of Calgary’s best-kept secrets. Well, the secret is out. Located adjacent to the Rockyview General Hospital, the PCC is where prostate cancer patients receive world-class care and attention — and its vision to provide comprehensive and holistic care continues to shape the PCC into one of the most enviable urological care centres in the world.
The PCC has long prioritized bold forward-thinking when it comes to patient care, but three years ago, CEO Jeff Davison took that commitment further when he joined the PCC. A local businessman and former city councillor, Davison didn’t have a background in healthcare prior to joining the PCC, but he came with a passion for innovation and problem-solving as well as infectious positive energy.
“I’ve always found I’ve been good at bringing people together, finding
common ground and getting things done,” Davison says. “There were some large aspirations here at the PCC. And I said, ‘Yeah, let's do it.’”
And so they have. Davison’s leadership reinvigorated an already enthusiastic team, all passionate about developing new initiatives expanding the possibilities of men’s healthcare. “Our board had a vision, and Jeff was able to actually make things happen,” says Stacey Smith, the centre’s director of fund development. “Innovation is not just about the ideas. Creating that environment here at the Prostate Cancer Centre has allowed the rest of us to be creative and think differently as well.”
CENTRE EXPANSION AND IMPROVED ACCESS TO LIFE-SAVING CARE
Since men’s urological health can carry stigma, creating a welcoming centre where men feel confident coming in for treatment has been a key part of the PCC’s game plan. Last year, the centre opened a 9,000-square-foot expansion to make room for new prehabilitation and mental health services as well as the medical treatment, aftercare and educational pieces the centre has built its reputation on.
the operating room is across the street in the hospital,” Davison says. “Having the ability to be a one-stop shop is incredibly unique.”
Add to that, one element that is intentionally not physically present is the MAN VAN, the PCC’s successful mobile testing unit. Since early detection is crucial in prostate cancer prognosis, the PCC launched its third MAN VAN last year to better reach men across Calgary and rural Alberta to administer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) diagnosis tests.
GROUNDBREAKING RESEARCH
While it’s rare for regional care facilities to engage in research, the PCC participates in 20 to 25 clinical trials at any given time because trials can lead to new drugs and
“Having the ability to be a one-stop shop is incredibly unique.”
— Jeff Davison
“Every urologist in the city is in our office. EFW radiology is in the office. All the programming pieces are here, and
Jeff Davison
therapies. To further position itself as a leader in the prostate cancer space, the centre recently formed a partnership with the University of Calgary to undertake new scientific research initiatives under the PCC banner. “We are a place of excellence for urology care; this was the next step,” Davison says. “We want to
establish a footprint that says we're doing basic science as well as clinical research to offer wraparound patient care.”
A WORLD-CLASS PREHABILITATION CENTRE
The centre’s expansion was largely designed to accommodate its new prehabilitation or “prehab” centre. The prehab program — intended to get patients in the best possible shape prior to surgery — includes mental health supports as well as physical exercise sessions such as yoga as well as the introduction to other healthy habits. Davison believes the PCC initiative is the most comprehensive prehab program in the world, presenting an excellent opportunity to collect data on patient outcomes. “We’re piloting a program that will be applicable to other forms of cancer as well,” Davison says. “This could be game changing in healthcare.”
THE FUTURE OF PERSONALIZED CARE
Davison and his team also have their eyes on using emerging technology to ensure treatment plans can meet patients’ individualized needs. While these measures haven’t been implemented just yet, PCC experts are investigating artificial intelligence (AI) applications to work with genetic sequencing to develop predictive treatment to improve outcomes and quality of life.
“We’ve learned so much about the world in the last decade, in terms of genetics and AI tools,” Davison says. “We’d be remiss if we weren’t always looking to the future. We’re always looking at how we can continually do better.”
INNOVATIVE DESIGN OPTIMIZES AGING WITH GRACE
Riverwalk Retirement Residence offers an award-winning design, bustling location and life-enriching amenities.
Located in the vibrant and seniorfriendly Cliff Bungalow-Mission neighbourhood, Riverwalk Retirement Residence by Verve Senior Living is a haven for senior living. The team at
SETTING
Verve Senior Living designed a premier retirement residence with a continuum of care where residents can age with grace, having everything from independent living and personalized supportive care to assisted living and memory care.
“Riverwalk embodies Verve’s mission by providing a vibrant, engaging environment where residents can maintain the active lifestyle they are accustomed to while receiving the care they need when required,” says Joseph Gesualdi, vice president of development planning for Verve Senior Living. “With a variety of amenities, thoughtfully designed suites and multiple levels of care, Riverwalk ensures that
THE PACE IN AEROSPACE
Innovate Calgary is giving the city’s aerospace sector a shot in the wing with its new innovation hub.
As Calgary’s thriving aerospace sector continues to expand, a new initiative is helping to turbocharge that growth with premium facilities and millions of dollars in investment. Led by Innovate Calgary, the Aerospace Innovation Hub aims to foster and attract innovation and start-ups in the aerospace sector through collaborative partnerships with the Calgary Airport Authority, University of Calgary, WestJet and Chapter.AI.
START-UP, UP AND AWAY
Launched in spring of 2024, the hub recruits and onboards start-up companies and surrounds them with supports to maximize their chances of success. These start-ups develop a vast variety
residents can enjoy independence while having support readily available.”
Riverwalk’s amenities include dynamic dining options, a bistro and bar, a fulsome activity calendar and various communal spaces to enjoy, like a movie theatre, billiards room and a fitness centre. Verve designed Riverwalk with residents in mind, aiming to enhance quality of life and community connection, and the design reflects true innovation. In fact, Senior Housing News awarded Riverwalk second place in the Continuing Care Retirement Community/Life Plan Community category of its Architecture & Design Awards. These awards recognize cutting-edge design, excellence and innovation in senior living.
“Receiving this award highlights our commitment to excellence in design, service and senior living innovation, setting Riverwalk apart as a standout choice for retirement living,” affirms Gesualdi.
To learn more, visit verveseniorliving.com/riverwalk.
of innovative solutions from enhancing runway safety and wildlife management using unmanned aerial vehicles to sustainable aviation fuels and satellite technologies.
“The Aerospace Innovation Hub accelerates Calgary’s aerospace sector by uniting start-ups, industry leaders, and University of Calgary research and expertise,” says John Wilson, president and CEO of Innovate Calgary.
CUTTING-EDGE TOOLKIT
At the heart of the hub are tools such as prototyping labs for start-up companies to build and test their designs. The stateof-the-art labs include over $5 million in equipment such as a waterjet cutter, a metal 3D printer and precision milling tools. Incubated companies also receive support from a roster of over 100 advisors, discounts through Innovate Calgary’s partners and a community of like-minded start-ups.
The hub also hosts the Aerospace Accelerator Program aimed at fostering the next generation of Calgary-based aerospace businesses by offering $200,000 of non-dilutive capital and a robust curriculum. The program will fund six placements in total over three years.
“With cutting-edge labs, strategic partnerships and a dynamic accelerator program, we’re driving innovation, economic growth and real-world solutions that position Calgary as a global aerospace leader,” says Wilson.
Learn more at innovatecalgary.com/aerospace-innovation.
coming to Rangeview
July19th
ALL IN THE HOME
BY SEAN P. YOUNG ILLUSTRATION BY SAM ISLAND
A growing number of Calgarians are seeking, and finding, multi-generational housing to meet their families’ needs, including affordability, child care and aging in place.
For many Calgary homebuyers, how they're living and who they’re living with is changing. Shifts in Calgary's housing market, demographics and culture are motivating many homebuyers to opt for multi-generational living. This approach is a practical, and even preferred, solution for a growing number of Calgarians. Some buyers wrestle with affordability and changing family dynamics, while others find advantages in being all together under one roof.
Many different types of families are making the shift, including adult kids boomeranging back home, seniors moving in with their adult children and middle-aged homeowners caring for both children and elderly parents at the same time. Multi-generational households have special requirements, such as secondary suites, main-floor bedrooms, side entrances and flex rooms, and Calgary developers and city planners are busy working to evolve their offerings and policies to meet the needs of households spanning multiple stages of life.
“I’ve definitely noticed more of my clients looking to buy with family members,” says Sean Hasson, a realtor at CIR Realty. As Calgary home prices have steeply increased, Hasson's noticed more clients, especially younger people, looking to buy places where they can live with their parents and even their
extended family. “People moving here from other provinces are more used to it, because it’s just been a reality for them if they wanted to own a house in those markets. And even people who have lived here for a long time are choosing that option more,” Hasson says.
Hasson’s observation is supported by the most recent federal census, which revealed multi-generational households were the fastest-growing household type in Canada, increasing 50 per cent since 2001.
The biggest factor fuelling Calgarians’ decision to keep it all in the family is the considerable decline in housing affordability since the COVID-19 pandemic. Before 2020, Calgary was a real estate oasis in Canada — a big-city market where a family could afford a good-sized, single, detached home in one of the world’s most-livable cities.
“We’ve had it pretty good for a long time, where you could get into the market a lot easier than markets in B.C. and Ontario,” says Ann-Marie Lurie, chief economist at the Calgary Real Estate Board. “If you think about it, it was only two years ago you could get a home in the range of $500,000.” A rapid rise in interprovincial and international migration to Alberta has upset the balance of supply and demand for all types of housing in Calgary — apartment rentals, townhomes, condos and especially single-family homes, Lurie says.
Recent data on multi-generational housing in Calgary is scarce, says Lurie. The City of Calgary discontinued its civic census program in 2020 due to budget cuts, and now relies on
the federal census, taken only every five years, to understand population demographics. The most recent data is from 2021; that census was contactless due to the pandemic and did not ask the same detailed questions on household makeup as the civic census.
What Lurie can track is Alberta and Calgary’s explosive population growth and shifting demographics. According to Statistics Canada, Alberta added 202,324 residents in 2023 — the largest annual increase in the province’s history — with 55,107 of those new residents attributed to net gains from interprovincial migration, a national record. Calgary’s population ballooned from 1.52 million in 2020 to an estimated 1.78 million in 2024. The proportion of Calgarians who are seniors has increased from 10 per cent in 2013 to 13 per cent in 2023, and that figure is projected to rise to 15.5 per cent by 2029.
“Part of the challenge we’ve had over the past two years is we’ve had so many people come here, and we just didn’t have the housing supply, which takes a long time to adjust,” Lurie says.
The adjustment is happening slowly. In 2024, Calgary led six major Canadian cities in total housing starts, and Alberta’s population boom began to stabilize.
But many Calgarians are choosing multi-generational living by preference rather than out of financial necessity. “Helping new or even first-generation Canadians find homes has really been eye-opening to me,” says Hasson. “We do seem to be one of the only cultures that put our parents in old folks’ homes and then just visit them occasionally.”
A 2019 United Nations report showed that living with a child or with extended family members was the most common living arrangement among seniors in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. In Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand, by contrast, living with a spouse only was most common for seniors, followed by living alone. The 2021 federal census found that Canadian Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs) with the highest concentration of newcomers had the highest proportion of multi-generational households (Abbotsford-Mission, B.C., at 22 per cent of households and Brampton, Ont., at 28 per cent of households, for example).
“We do extensive amounts of research in
terms of the market and who the likely home buyer will be,” says Marvin Coronia, senior marketing manager at Hopewell Residential. Coronia says Hopewell’s analysis shows several communities in northeast Calgary are “winding down” when it comes to new home construction. That leaves an available market of South Asian buyers seeking multi-generational floor plans elsewhere in the city.
“We identified a huge opportunity in terms of a more diverse group of buyers than what we would traditionally have. South Asian purchasers are prominent in terms of multi-generational [homes],” Coronia says.
Hopewell has been attracting South Asian buyers to its southeast community of Hotchkiss, which opened in October 2022. The community, now in its fourth phase of construction, will welcome approximately 1,400 residents by the time it is complete.
“We’ve adapted some of our floor plans to accommodate multi-generational needs. Tweaks like adding main-floor suites with full bathrooms and four bedrooms within that space,” Coronia says. “But, on the upper floor, we’ll include a flex space to give the different generations separate spaces within the home where they can have time to themselves.”
Coronia notes that Hopewell is continually working to learn from customers in order to truly accommodate families of all types through design changes to its base plans. He points to the Tilsa floor plan — a 2,200-square-foot layout that can accommodate up to six bedrooms and has a front attached garage. “It has a ton of living spaces for different parts of a multi-generational family,” he says. “But we’ve had purchasers come in who have expressed different interests, like maybe they have a mother-inlaw who’s moving in who has mobility challenges, and we need to create [a special] space within the home ”
Coronia says the flexibility of the detached layouts in Hotchkiss is attractive to many buyers looking for multi-gen housing. “Every home in Hotchkiss is developed with a side entrance as part of the home. So, there is the opportunity to develop a basement suite with a separate entrance. You can do a full kitchen suite in the basement and get the home up to code,” he says.
It’s not just builders embracing the development of multi-gen homes. Calgary
was one of the first major cities in Canada to allow secondary suites, and city council has been pushing a progressive, and often-controversial, agenda to get them permitted and built for several years. In 2021, council decided to allow secondary suites as a discretionary use in all city districts. This removed the need for long and sometimes emotional council hearings to get a secondary suite permitted and approved. In 2023, The City of Calgary also introduced the Secondary Suite Incentive Program, which provides qualifying homeowners up to $10,000 to build and register a secondary suite on their property.
“Multi-generational housing is one example of people meeting their needs for housing in different ways,” says Stephen Pearce, senior planner with the City. “Part of our evolution as a city has been to provide flexibility in the type of housing that can be built and the ways that you can use that house.” Pearce says the City’s push for densification via secondary suites was initially met with backlash, mainly from inner-city homeowners, but has grown to become accepted, even valued.
“The option to create a space for your adult children or a grandparent makes sense for people as their lives change,” Pearce says. “Secondary suites provide a range of different ways of living together while still having their own privacy, and keeps caregivers close to their families.”
The City further increased homeowners’ ability to create secondary suites with the Rezoning for Housing Bylaw, which went into effect in August 2024. The bylaw allows homeowners to redevelop single-family detached homes into denser housing types, including row houses, duplexes or fourplexes, without having to obtain a land-use redesignation. It also permits both secondary and backyard suites on most residential properties in the city and removes parking requirements for secondary suites.
“It was a difficult policy decision and not popular, but it was super-important to the future of this city and adds a layer of adaptability and resilience in a housing system that is increasingly strained,” says Ward 12 Councillor Evan Spencer. Like Pearce, Spencer says the bylaw gives homeowners more options to add units to their properties
“M ULTI-
G ENERATIONAL
child often gives both added comfort, as well as a different view on independence.
More than 80 per cent of COVID-19 deaths occurred at nursing homes or retirement communities in Canada. Years of media coverage stressing those numbers, as well as the isolation and the conditions that were exposed at some of these facilities, have increased societal anxiety about ending up in senior care. A 2022 Retirement and Savings Institute survey of Canadians ages 50-69 found that 72 per cent said they are less likely to use a nursing home post-pandemic.
Seniors being cared for at home is a significant family resource benefit of multi-gen homes. Just as beneficial is the inverse — seniors providing care for their grandchildren. “The child-care component of multi-generational homes is often a big financial benefit for the parents, but also for the grandparents and the kids to spend more time with each other is a big plus,” says Gillian Bell with AURA Real Estate Team. “It’s more of the village raising your kids, rather than the parents alone ”
WAYS ."
H OUSING IS ONE E XAMPLE OF P EOPLE MEETING T HEIR NEEDS FOR H OUSING IN D IFFERENT
S TEPHEN PEARCE
and adapt their living situations as they age. He says he and his wife are currently whether to eventually add a secondary unit to their Mahogany property, with his two kids and retirement years in mind.
“Our kids are likely going to helicopter many times and take a long time to leave the nest,” Spencer says. “So, it makes sense to optimize the property for that and potentially last longer on this property as retirees if we’re getting a little bit of income off of it, as well.”
Caregiving — either for an aging parent or for young children — is often a consideration for those opting for multi-generational living. The growing senior population (nearly one in five Canadians are 65 or older) can live at home longer than previous generations due to advances in medical care, home care and assistive technologies. Living with an adult
Bell founded AURA in 2022 with friend and fellow realtor Ali Larsen. With a diploma in architectural technology and a decade as a realtor, Larsen knows what makes a multigenerational home purchase successful. She says it's important for the two generations buying a home together to clearly communicate expectations and really understand each other’s lifestyles.
“It’s usually the nuclear family living upstairs with all the natural light, while the grandparents are in the basement,” Larsen says. “Understanding that the grandparents still want to entertain and have their own lives is important. Finding a home with a walkout then becomes more of a priority.”
As Calgary grows towards a city of two million, multi-generational homes will play an increasing role in the evolution of its housing mix. They provide cultural vibrancy and affordability, and enhance Calgary’s communities by nurturing the character that makes the city exceptional.
“Character is a concept that is so hard to define, but, ultimately, it’s the people that live there,” says Pearce. “It’s not the buildings. It’s not even how the block is laid out or anything like that. It’s the people living there that make the community what it is.”
FOSTERING GAME-CHANGING LEADERSHIP
Attending Camp Chief Hector YMCA helped Olympian Haley Daniels advocate for women in sports internationally.
Haley Daniels grew up in a family that loved the outdoors — she never needed much convincing to get outside. Still, Camp Chief Hector YMCA exposed her to new outdoor activities, like riding horses and overnight hiking, while allowing her to lean into her love for canoeing and kayaking.
As someone who struggled in school, Daniels found encouragement in attending camp. “Once I was sent to an opportunity like camp, where I could learn in an experiential way with peers, I flourished and thrived, and that’s where I realized that sport was a really strong direction for me,” she says.
After a few summers at camp showed her paddling was a space where she could shine, she began practicing kayaking and canoeing at a competitive level, eventually competing in the debut of female canoeing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The leadership, accountability and discipline she learned at camp helped her reach that pivotal moment.
CONNECTING BY DISCONNECTING
For nearly 100 years, Camp Chief Hector YMCA has been where youth connect, learn and discover themselves. For many of the campers, it’s their first time away from their parents, giving them autonomy and responsibility as they head off on their adventures. At camp, the youth are completely disconnected from technology, removing outside distractions and allowing them to truly connect with the experience.
“We need to have these places where they don’t have phones, and they can be with humans. Camp is one of those few places,” says Daniels. “Camp allows the young people to learn how to collaborate, communicate and be leaders.”
LEADERSHIP ON THE BIG STAGE
Daniels did not have an easy road to getting to the Olympics, but she was determined to get there. She faced discrimination and disrespect while out on the water because of her gender as women couldn’t compete at the Olympics in canoeing. That is until she and a global group of female canoeists advocated for it for years.
“When you feel like something’s wrong, you need to continue to lean into that and continue to fight for that,” she says. “Being a leader is not just being a CEO of an organization or
championing something but pushing for something and speaking up for those who can’t speak for themselves. That’s what I learned from camp.”
And it’s what she did to help other female canoeists become Olympians. Daniels represented Canada at the Tokyo Games in the first-ever female canoeing category. When she attended the Paris 2024 Olympic Games as a broadcaster, so much had changed for the better.
“Those women didn’t see the discrimination that we saw. They were able to just be at the Olympics and be athletes and not have to fight for their rights because of their gender. It was a huge moment for me,” she says.
IMPACTING FUTURE GENERATIONS
To ensure youth continue to develop game-changing leadership like Daniels did, the YMCA launched Love, Camp to raise funds to help shape the future of Camp Chief Hector YMCA. The YMCA is on an ambitious mission to raise $17 million to sustain the camp’s legacy and continue to help future generations build confidence, gain leadership skills and make lasting memories.
“We need to invest in creating places outside for youth,” says Daniels. “It’s about investing in our future workforce, for them to be able to connect with [the environment] and each other on a human level.”
CONDO AND TOWNHOME LIVING
Calgarians have a variety of lifestyle needs, and condos and townhomes suit many of them. Whether you’re an empty-nester looking to downsize, a first-time homebuyer ready to stake your claim in real estate or an investor looking for a new property, Calgary’s condo and townhome market delivers. Singles, couples and families are all discovering how condos and townhomes can meet all of their needs in several different communities, in and around the city. Read on to see how one of these homes could be your next one.
ELEVATED TOWNHOME LIVING
With private elevators and rooftop patios, GUILD Townhomes offer luxury and comfort in the heart of University District.
Built where quiet luxury and convenience meet, GUILD townhomes by Crystal Creek Homes is one of the latest additions to the unique and burgeoning community of University District. Featuring 40 units spread across six buildings, the GUILD development includes two- and three-bedroom townhomes that place a concerted emphasis on elegance and comfort.
CONVENIENCE AND PRIVACY
The build-up-not-out nature of traditional townhomes often means lots of stairs, which aren’t always convenient or practical for empty nesters or retirees looking to downsize as they approach their golden years. GUILD addresses this dilemma head on, with a simple solution providing truly elevated townhome living. A private elevator in each and
every unit makes the entire home easily accessible at the push of a button.
“With the private garage leading you to your private elevator, you have immediate access to your home. No need to shuffle through large communal areas such as big parkades, lobbies and long hallways," says Crystal Creek area sales manager Andrea Irwin.
PART OF A VIBRANT COMMUNITY
Set in the bustling and ultra-walkable University District, GUILD Townhomes are located just steps from a grocery store, several restaurants, a bakery, wine boutique, coffee shop, multiple exercise studios and even a movie theatre. Upon completion, the easily accessible University District will feature approximately 7,100 residential units, 15,000 residents and 300,000 sq. ft. of retail along its main street.
All of the GUILD two- and threebedroom floorplans come in at a minimum of 2,000 square feet and feature meticulously designed interiors that prioritize spacious layouts and highend finishes, all combining to provide an indelible sense of home. These townhomes feel roomy and complete, making the downsizing transition seamless. Each unit boasts extended outdoor living spaces with main-floor
balconies and rooftop patios, the perfect places to unwind while overlooking the vibrant and growing community.
“GUILD provides the perfect balance of lifestyle needs for our homebuyers,” says Irwin. “The majority of them are downsizers and empty nesters who are looking for the convenience of the lock-and-leave lifestyle offered by condo living but still want the space, security and the feeling of a single-family home.”
SUSTAINABLY BUILT BY A TRUSTED BUILDER
The development is also expected to achieve BUILT GREEN Gold certification, an acknowledgment of GUILD’s use of sustainable building practices and emphasis on energy efficiency. Combined with the vast number of modern amenities and necessities located right in the community, GUILD offers impressive access to environmentally conscious living.
With more than 20 years of experience building homes across Calgary, Crystal Creek prides itself on well-built homes that combine beauty and comfort to provide an elegant and seamless living experience. GUILD at University District offers a unique opportunity to experience elevated townhome living in one of Calgary’s most complete and exciting new communities.
A NEW URBAN IDEAL
GUILD townhomes are situated in University District, a vibrant, walkable community rich in amenities. Each home features private elevators, rooftop patios, and double-car garages, offering both luxury and convenience. The interiors are meticulously designed with high-end finishes, ideal for a lock-and-leave lifestyle. You can choose from 2 or 3 bedroom layouts, each with expansive main floors and versatile flex rooms. Explore these exceptional townhomes today.
5 COMMUNITIES FOR PERFECT TOWNHOME LIVING
Discover the advantages of townhome living in the ideal community for you by Melcor Developments.
When considering a purchase as significant as your next home, you must consider affordability, value, price point, location and quality of life. With townhome living, you get a leg up with budget-friendly options, thoughtful designs to maximize space and an enhanced sense of community. Plus, Melcor Developments offers townhomes ideally located in its master-planned communities.
“Whether buyers are looking for scenic views in Cochrane, family-friendly environments in Airdrie or modern urban living in Calgary, there’s a townhome option to suit different lifestyles,” says Erin Cripps, sales and marketing manager of community development, Calgary region at Melcor Developments.
Here are five Calgary and area communities where you can find the right townhome for you.
COBBLESTONE CREEK, AIRDRIE
Located in a quiet corner of southwest Airdrie, Cobblestone Creek provides relaxation and tranquillity. Residents can enjoy the outdoors with its various parks, paths and green spaces, and get active with state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and basketball courts. Plus, a brand-new recreation centre is set to open in 2028, just across from the community. Currently in early stages of development, Cobblestone Creek has a variety of show home models available for viewing, so you can find the design that perfectly suits your needs. liveincobblestone.com
SORA, CALGARY
Located in southeast Calgary, Sora offers peaceful suburban living. Nature awaits residents outside their doorstep with park space, wetlands and seating along the water’s edge. Enjoy various restaurants and shopping services nearby, too. Lots are available for purchase, with expert builders ready to design and build your townhome. In particular, check out the net-zero energy show home by Homes by Avi. liveinsora.com
LANARK LANDING, AIRDRIE
A pump track, skating rink, outdoor amphitheatre, gardens, baseball diamonds and more: Lanark Landing has everything you need for year-round fun. The community is within walking distance from Kingsview Market, where you’ll find everyday services, including restaurants, banks and grocery stores, and it’s only a 10-minute drive from Cross Iron Mills. Lanark Landing has move-in ready homes, with some still in construction with upcoming possession dates, meaning you can still customize your dream townhome without waiting a year to move in. liveinlanark.com
GREENWICH, CALGARY
Inspired by its New York City neighbourhood namesake, Greenwich is a 59-acre northwest community with brownstones and boutique shopping designed to bring ultimate urban living to Calgarians. Home to the Calgary Farmers’ Market West, the community also has plenty of coffee shops and restaurants. Plus, it’s perfectly positioned between the city centre and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Choose from unique stacked modern townhomes and start living your NYC dream today. greenwichcalgary.com
SUNSET RIDGE, COCHRANE
Overlooking the town of Cochrane, Sunset Ridge has rolling hills and a mountain skyline as its stunning backdrop. The community connects to over five kilometres of paths with plenty of reasons to get the whole family out for a nature excursion, like its central park, various playgrounds and a sixacre freshwater pond, not to mention its proximity to the Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre and mountain-based activities. Plus, Cochrane town centre is only a few minutes drive away. Move-in ready, fee-simple townhomes await, crafted by award-winning builders. liveinsunsetridge.ca
SPACIOUS TOWNHOME LIVING COMES TO AIRDRIE
The Towns by Shane Multi-Family prioritize comfort and convenience in a family-friendly community.
Shane Multi-Family brings spacious townhome living to Airdrie with The Towns. Located in Airdrie’s Midtown area, these townhomes offer three- and four-bedroom floor plans across 1645 square feet of condo-convenient living. Featuring open-concept layouts that make these townhomes feel bigger
than typical multifamily homes, the units combine modern designs and quality interior finishes, the perfect marriage of style and function.
LOW-MAINTENANCE LIVING
“One of the biggest advantages is low-maintenance living — our condo fees cover exterior maintenance, landscaping and snow removal, meaning homeowners can leave their space without worrying about upkeep,” says area manager Veliny Vaz. “It’s perfect for busy professionals and growing families who want a larger home that fits their lifestyle without added hassles.”
Each unit features a private recessed balcony allowing you to enjoy the fresh
also provides secure parking (for even a full-sized truck!) and extra storage.
PASSING THE YELL TEST
A cost-effective entry into homeownership, the Midtown community is centrally located in Airdrie, providing easy access to parks, shopping and dining, all within minutes of your doorstep. And, every The Towns home is “yell test” approved, meaning extra care has been taken to help ensure privacy and peace among neighbours.
“The Shane Multi-Family's shared-wall system minimizes noise and keeps your neighbours happy,” affirms Vaz. “The Towns offer a great way to own a home while enjoying the perks of a thriving, well-connected community.”
LIVE
IN
THE HEART OF THE CITY
Sovereign offers luxurious condo living in Calgary's new culture and entertainment district.
Expertly built by Homes by Avi, Sovereign on 17th is your chance to live on Calgary’s most exciting thoroughfare. Located just west of Stampede Park on 17th Avenue, this stunning boutique mid-rise building will feature 155 thoughtfully designed residences, including two-bedroom and penthouse suites. Sovereign offers luxurious finishes, penthouse terraces on the top floor, secure underground parking and immediate access to one of Calgary’s most walkable neighbourhoods.
“At Homes by Avi, we believe in crafting spaces that not only enhance communities, but also celebrate their unique character,” says Charron Ungar, CEO of Homes by Avi Group of Companies.
PART OF THE ACTION
With possession dates scheduled for fall of 2026, Sovereign buyers can look forward to sharing in the grand opening of Scotia Place in fall 2027. The new Calgary Flames hockey arena and concert venue will be the centerpiece of Calgary’s rejuvenated culture and entertainment district with restaurants,
vibrant plaza spaces and a community rink, all just steps away. That’s not including all the bars, restaurants, coffee shops, book stores and shopping opportunities already available in the amenity-rich area.
“Building on the success of our previous developments, we’re excited to seize this prime location to make Sovereign a reality for those who actively seek a luxurious and cosmopolitan lifestyle,” says Ungar. “Together with industry leader ITC Construction Group, we’re shaping a future with inimitable style and attention to detail that raises the bar in construction excellence.”
Learn more about Sovereign’s contemporary twist to the urban landscape at homesbyavi.com/calgary/sovereign-on-17th.
LOCAL MatTERS
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Thank you to our advertisers!
Alberta Academy of Periodontics, Arts Commons, Aspen Landing Shopping Centre, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, Bow Valley College, Caesar’s Steak House & SPQR Lounge, Calgary Chamber of Commerce, Calgary Economic Development, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Calgary Telus Convention Centre, Crystal Creek Homes, Deane House, Dream Asset Management Corporation, Excel Homes, Homes by Avi Urban, JW Health, Kama Calgary, Lactalis Canada, Logel Homes Waterside at Mahogany, MacEwan University, Maria Tomas, Melcor Developments Ltd., Mission Retirement Partnership, Modern Steak, Mount Royal University, National Access Arts Centre, NuVista Homes & Augusta Fine Homes, Partners Development Group Upper Greenwich, Precision Sexual Health Clinic for Men, Prostate Cancer Center, Qualico Developments Calgary, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies - RCR Resorts, Rogers Charity Classic, Rosebud School of the Arts, Shane Homes, Shokunin, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada - Renata Reid, Springbank Land Company, Spruce Meadows, Stone House Decor, The Brenda Strafford Foundation Ltd., The Crossing at Ghost River and Mount Engadine Lodge, The Towns on Eighth Inc., West 83rd Partnership Ltd., Innovate Calgary, Calgary Stampede Cellar Uncorked, Wilder Institute Calgary Zoo, Wood’s Homes, YMCA Calgary.
MOUNTAIN RETREATS
RENDERING OF A SHARED SOCIAL SPACE IN THE NEW BASECAMP WILDWOOD NORDIC SPA BEING BUILT IN CANMORE.
W ith their muscle-soothing h ot s prings and soul-soothing m ajesty, t he mountains h ave a lways offered a unique location for wellness. N ew spa o fferings and well n ess retreats i n the n earby mountains s tep up the luxury and take h ealing to new h eights, while resorts focused on wellness a nd relaxation p romise to d ial back the s tress of your b usy urban life.
LUXURY ON THE LAKESHORE
A NEW NORDIC-STYLE THERMAL WELLNESS FACILITY AT FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE BRINGS MORE WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK.
Built in 1926 on the shores of one of Canada’s most-adored natural marvels, the original outdoor pool at the Chateau Lake Louise attracted visitors from near and far to experience what was considered luxury at the time. This summer, Basin Glacial Waters, Fairmont’s first thermal wellness facility, will open in the same spot as the original pool, reflecting a modern take on lakeside wellness.
WELLNESS UNDER THE OPEN SKY
Chateau Lake Louise today holds the same appeal it always has: a breathtaking location on the shores of turquoise waters nestled amongst incredible mountain peaks. In the late 1800s, the then-humble chalet attracted outdoor enthusiasts and alpinists and quickly became a hub for mountaineering.
The thermal wellness facility stays true to the original vision of soaking in the epic views of Lake Louise. It's embedded into the landscape and its amenities are on offer under the sky and among the trees. There's a circular massage pool, a series of varying-temperature pools, an outdoor cold plunge pool and a cold bucket drop to complete the hydrotherapy circuit. The thoughtful design uses natural elements: native plants cover the rooftop, and the outdoor terrace features a relaxation area and an infinity pool, which sprawls from inside the facility. The facility’s architecture incorporates stone, wood and natural tile to create an atmosphere that reflects its environment.
The facility has a resting lounge, as well as food and beverage options that speak to the luxury wellness-seekers.
A FAIRMONT FIRST
Until now, wellness in Banff National Park has been shaped by outdoor activities, hotel spas and wellness retreats. The new facility features Nordic-style contrast bathing, where you alternate between immersion in intense hot and cold pools, which is believed to help in-
crease blood circulation and lessen any muscle soreness. This spa style is not only new to the national park, but it’s also a Fairmont first.
The intersection of wellness and luxury has long been alive and evolving within the Fairmont brand: the original 1920s pool at Lake Louise was Canada’s second-largest outdoor pool at the time it was built. Basin Glacial Waters is a testament to Fairmont’s evolving commitment to offer state-of-the-art hospitality.
Although the thermal wellness facility is new to the Fairmont brand, the new space doesn’t stray too far from its roots. The arched windows mirror the Chateau’s design, and it still sources all of its water from Victoria Glacier. Visitors
RENDERING OF BASIN GLACIAL WATERS, OPENING SOON AT FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE.
can still expect to experience the resort's century-old reputation for outstanding hospitality.
The idea of revitalizing the former location of the pool has been in the making for decades. Due to its protected environment in Canada’s oldest national park, a high level of detail went into bringing this idea to fruition. As the facility will soon welcome and attract more people to one of Canada’s great treasures, visitors will be able to enjoy a new experience, where wellness, luxury and breaktaking natural landscapes come together.
111 Lake Louise Dr., Lake Louise, chateau-lakelouise.com/wellness/basin-glacial-waters
BASECAMP ADDS SPAS
BASECAMP RESORTS HAS FOUND SUCCESS UPGRADING AGING MOUNTAIN GETAWAYS. NOW IT'S TRYING ITS HAND AT SPAS, WITH THE WILDWOOD NORDIC SPA SET TO OPEN LATER THIS YEAR.
Sky McLean made getting a good night’s sleep in ski towns across Western Canada easier when she launched Basecamp Resorts eight years ago. Now, the entrepreneur (and Avenue Top 40 alumna!) is about to change the spa scene in mountain towns, too.
In the fall of 2025 , McLean’s Basecamp Resorts will open its first spa on the grounds of the company’s new luxury hotel, MTN House, in Canmore.
The Wildwood Nordic Spa will span a whopping 4,048 square metres — that’s just shy of a
football field. The spa will include hot tubs, a cold plunge and waterfall, a tempered pool, a salt-inhalation sauna, steam rooms and relaxation tents, all set against a mountain backdrop. This venture marks the beginning of a new chapter for Basecamp where spas will be central to the company's mission, says McLean. “As we look at new properties, we're always going to be focusing on a hotel and spa,” she says.
McLean founded Basecamp with a vision of creating boutique mountain properties that combine the extravagance of a hotel with the homey amenities usually associated with an Airbnb, things like laundry and kitchens. Since
then, the company has expanded to 14 hotel and resort properties throughout Alberta and British Columbia, making it the fastest-growing hospitality brand in Western Canada.
When she opened her first property, McLean — an avid hiker, skier and mountain biker — assumed guests would come to the mountains for the same kind of sporty adventures she loves. They’d want gear rooms, ski racks and room for bikes, she figured.
But she was wrong. Research from the Basecamp team showed that more people coming to mountain towns want to relax and relish the view rather than spend their time adventuring.
“What we found, and it was the biggest shock and a good one, is that most people coming to Canmore and Basecamp are just coming to hang out,” she says. That idea stuck with her.
In 2023, Basecamp Resorts bought an old Holiday Inn in Canmore with the plan of doing what has always served the company well: upgrade the property into a lux combo of hotel and Airbnb. But there was a catch. If Basecamp added more rooms to the property, they’d have to increase the size of the buildings. And that would chew into the glittering mountain view on the hotel’s doorstep.
“This is crazy,” McLean recalls telling her colleagues. “Why are we building more hotel rooms when we have all this space? We should build a spa.”
McLean had always liked spas, but she wasn’t a frequent user. So she and her team kicked off a tour of spas around the country to plan out next steps. Those visits convinced her that spas should be part of Basecamp’s future.
“That’s when I was, like, this is the best idea ever,” she says. “You could be just going there to be on your own, disconnect from your job, take a break from your kids. Whatever your life is, [spas] appeal to everybody.”
Along with the Wildwood Nordic Spa, the company is now planning spas in Fernie, Banff and just outside Calgary. The Wildwood is scheduled to open in November.
“People are becoming more aware of taking care of themselves and staying fit. A spa is not only an amazing social experience, but it's also really good for you. It hits all of those things.”
1 Silvertip Trail, Canmore, basecampresorts.com/mtnhousecanmore
RENDERING OF WILDWOOD NORDIC SPA.
BY SHELLEY ARNUSCH
ACKNOWLEDGING WELLNESS
THE FAIRMONT SPA BANFF SPRINGS’ PARTNERSHIP WITH A LOCAL INDIGENOUS SKINCARE BRAND ENHANCES THE SPA EXPERIENCE WITH PLANT MEDICINE AND KNOWLEDGE.
Last fall, the Fairmont Spa Banff Springs debuted a new partnership with Mother Earth Essentials, an Indigenous-owned beauty product brand based in Edmonton. Founder Carrie Armstrong is a Cree woman and a descendant of a long line of medicine women who uses knowledge of plant medicine passed down by her grandmother to create the Mother Earth products.
Armstrong designed custom massage and facial oils specifically for the Fairmont Spa Banff Springs using plants native to the land that Banff National Park occupies. The products are used for a 90-minute body experience — a sage and peppermint salt scrub, followed by a massage using wintergreen and black spruce oils and an application of a facial oil made from berry seeds. The spa also uses Mother Earth products in one of the pedicure treatments and sells Mother Earth products in its retail area.
Armstrong is an educator who began developing the Mother Earth brand when she was teaching at Edmonton’s Indigenous-program junior/senior high school, Amiskwaciy Academy. In addition to creating the products, she trained the Banff Springs spa technicians on the medicinal elements, allowing them to share this knowledge with clients as part of the treatment.
“When I did the training, they had already been using the products for some time and I got such great feedback,” Armstrong says. “They loved the feel of the massage oil, and when I told them the story and the plants it made them really appreciate it.”
The plant knowledge and education adds another layer to the spa experience at the Springs that continues when clients move out of the private treatment rooms into the shared spaces — the mineral and waterfall pool area and serene outdoor hot pool exclusive for spa guests — with grand views of the Rockies.
ACKNOWLEDGING THE INDIGENOUS CONTRIBUTION TO THE BANFF SPA EXPERIENCE FEELS L IKE AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT THAT H AS LONG BEEN MISSING.
Encouraging guests to contemplate the roots of wellness culture in the region while relaxing in this environment is apropos: Indigenous peoples enjoyed natural hot springs in the area long before the arrival of railway workers and the construction of the grand hotel designed to draw well-heeled train travellers to Banff.
Acknowledging the Indigenous contribution to the Banff spa experience feels like an essential
element that has long been missing.
The Springs Mother Earth Essentials partnership opened the door for a similar collaboration with the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. That project has an even deeper meaning for Armstrong, whose ancestors lived on the land that, in 1907, was declared Jasper National Park.
“My great-grandmother got pushed out of Jasper when Parks came in and said, ‘We can’t have Indigenous people here, we’re opening a beautiful national park. You guys don’t belong here.' So it’s full-circle to be coming back,” Armstrong says. “That’s reconciliation in action.”
405 Spray Ave., Banff
To book, call 1-403-762-1772 or email bsh.spareservations@fairmont.com
MOTHER EARTH ESSENTIALS PRODUCTS AT THE BANFF SPRINGS.
BY VALERIE BERENYI
RESET AT MOUNTAIN TREK
A LITTLE-KNOWN RETREAT IN THE KOOTENAYS MARRIES NORDIC-STYLE HIKING WITH HEALTH-AND-WELLNESS LECTURES, MASSAGE AND SPA SERVICES, A DETOX MENU, AND A HIGH LEVEL OF STAFF ATTENTION TO HELP RESET GUESTS’ HEALTH.
'd long aspired to go to Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, a wellness destination set on a forested mountainside above the tiny resort village of Ainsworth Hot Springs, B.C.
IThat aspiration became a quest after a decade-long struggle with insomnia left me completely worn down, despite following every sleep hygiene rule. Exhausted — and having exhausted my options with several sleep doctors and an array of sleep medications — I finally went to Mountain Trek for a week in early October.
I desperately hoped the retreat's combination of daily hikes, nourishing food and mountain air would provide deep rest and respite — and hopefully forever break the spell of insomnia by resetting my brain and body.
Mountain Trek is little-known in Canada, but is famous internationally. In 2024, Outside magazine rated it one of 14 best wellness retreats in the world for active travellers, and Conde Nast Traveler readers' choice awards named it Canada's No. 1 wellness retreat.
Opened in 1991 as a mountain lodge in the verdant West Kootenay region northeast of Nelson, Mountain Trek evolved into a recreational retreat that used hiking and mountain biking to torch calories for weight loss.
In 2000, the retreat hired Kirkland Shave, a longtime park ranger who ran a wilderness skills school, as a hiking guide. After seven years, he bought into the company. As the program creator and a motivational guru, Shave has shaped the program into a unique blend of wellness bootcamp, luxury adult summer camp and holistic spa.
The retreat runs weekly from late April until October, with up to 16 guests lovingly tended by at least 40 staff. The clientele is 70-per cent American and female, with an average age of 54; each week, fully 30 per cent of guests are returnees. Despite the current $8,900-a-week fee, a few sign up for two or even three weeks.
People come to Mountain Trek seeking help with a wide variety of health and wellness concerns, from stress, burnout and weight gain, to the need for a complete lifestyle reboot. Often,
says Shave, they've had something significant happen that makes them want to make lasting change. “[They’ve] hit a wall, such as getting a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, or needing to go on statins. They've lost a parent to dementia, or they've had a loss, like a job or a divorce. There's a catalyst, a wake-up, a kick start and they decide to invest in themselves.”
Like me, about 50 per cent of guests want to address sleep health.
We guests arrive at the rustic-luxe lodge
MOUNTAIN TREK HEALTH RESET RETREAT KOKANEE HIKE.
"C ATCH THE WAVE, LIKE A SURFER, AND DON'T LET IT PASS YOU BY."
around 5 p.m. on a Saturday. Part of the mystique of Mountain Trek is wrapped up in the Kootenays region itself, long a magnet for folks with an alternative bent. Getting to this isolated area takes effort, much like undertaking a journey to the Middle Kingdom, laughs Shave, as he welcomes us with a dinner of cedar-planked sockeye salmon and vegetables. To drink? Water and herbal tea.
Thus begins our detox: there's no sugar, gluten, caffeine, alcohol or dairy and few carbs on the spa-gourmet menu. It includes organic vegetarian fare, but also wild-caught fish, freerange poultry, even grass-fed beef. Those guests seeking to lose weight are limited to 1,200 to 1,400 organic, low-sodium calories a day, spread over three meals and three snacks. (After the initial shock, I discover I'm sometimes hungry, but never starving.)
The goal is to tamp down inflammation and
the stress hormone cortisol, and to boost metabolism. There's a digital detox, too; other than for taking the odd photo, phones are to be used only in our small, Spartan rooms. The Wi-Fi is cut at 10 p.m.
I'm in bed at 9:15 p.m. anyway because, two days before the retreat, I'd had a pre-arrival assessment with Shave over Zoom. He zeroes in on my sleep habits: cool room, blackout blinds, no screens an hour before bed, little to no alcohol or caffeine. Check and check. I tell him I failed miserably (twice) at a sleep-compression program in which I fought to stay awake until midnight and then attempt to get up at 6 a.m. to “squeeze out” insomnia.
“But clock-watching doesn't take your circadian rhythm into account,” he says, counselling me instead to pay attention to my body's naturally rising level of melatonin in the evening, and to go to bed immediately when I begin
feeling drowsy.
“Catch the wave, like a surfer, and don't let it pass you by,” Shave says. I try it that night: at 9:15 p.m., I start dozing while reading; I'm in bed and asleep at 9:30; I wake up once in the night, then rise at 5:30 a.m., feeling more refreshed than I had in years. Bingo.
The week at Mountain Trek — a regimented schedule that keeps us hopping and, therefore, yawning early — solidifies these sleep habits (and many others).
A typical day: An alarm clock with simulated sunrise and birdsong chirps at 5:45 a.m. Pull on yoga clothes, stagger to the dining room at 6:10 a.m. for a smoothie, then join a gentle yoga class from 6:30 to 7:30. As the sun rises, take in the breathtaking view of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains.
After breakfast comes foot care. Preventing pressure spots and blisters with fabric strips and
CLOCKWISE
MOUNTAIN TREK’S MEAL OFFERINGS, THE LODGE AND THE DINING ROOM.
THE TEAM GETS TO THE HEART OF WHATEVER HOLDS CLIENTS BACK.
second skin is essential because most days we hike for two to four hours — always with poles, in a brisk, but enjoyable “flow” state.
There are four hiking groups, based on ability. On the first hike, as I struggle up a steep climb, my hiking guide, Kirstie Leighton, regards me with her clear, blue-green eyes. “Don't lean over when you're hiking uphill — stand tall to open up your lungs. And breathe,” she says. Damn if it doesn't work. Words to live by. When we stop to nosh on a half banana and a handful of (unsalted) nuts, I tell her one of my toes is sore, so she tenderly tapes it trailside.
It's but one example of the dream team of people who work at the retreat. They get to the heart of whatever holds clients back and support them with kindness and compassion.
Forget about an afternoon nap, though. After hiking on the beautiful trails come lectures in the lodge's cozy lounge area on sleep, nutrition
and stress management. In one about detoxifying naturally, Candi Huscroft, a hiking guide and nutritionist, recommends drinking at least two litres of water a day; eating a rainbow of foods and lots of fibre; embracing yoga and massage; and regularly using saunas and steam baths, followed by a cold plunge to boost the immune system.
Up next is an hour-long strength training class. I dread it, but the mix of free weights, bands and cardio is wonderfully energizing. The rewards: a small snack and precious free time to soak in the outdoor hot tub, bask in the steam room or infrared sauna and slip into the hydrotherapy cold plunge pool. Marvellous.
Dinner is served at 5:15 p.m., then a nature walk to help manage blood sugar levels and an evening roster of restorative yoga, sound healing or spa appointments. The program includes three 50-minute massages, plus a range of
treatments like acupuncture, Tarot card readings and facials available at extra cost. For the first time, I sample Reiki and somatic therapy, and feel a profound release of several emotional burdens.
After a tough, yet blissful week, I drive away feeling calm and rested, several pounds lighter, with glowing skin and without my usual aches and pains (reduced inflammation, no doubt). I haven't felt this good since I was a kid. Expensive? Sure, but it's a transformative experience.
Months later, I continue to reap the benefits of my reset, with more protein and veggies in my diet, plus regular sessions of yoga and strength training and, best of all, catching the melatonin wave and riding it to dreamland most nights.
3800 North St., Ainsworth, B.C., mountaintrek.com
HALCYON HOT SPRINGS RESORT
With two must-visit hot springs destinations, the Nakusp region is a hot spot for wellness in the Kootenays. Perched on a rise overlooking Upper Arrow Lake, a half-hour drive north of Nakusp, Halcyon Hot Springs is a stunning spot to soak in the famous pools, as well as the local history.
The resort has a colourful past dating back to the late 1800s, and regional Indigenous peoples had been enjoying the lithia-rich mineral waters (lithium is said to be beneficial in curing arthritis) long before
Nakusp Springs
ETERNAL
hotel accommodations were erected. While the “Sanitarium,” as it was previously known, burned to the ground in 1955, Halcyon was rebuilt as a contemporary resort in 1998 and changed ownership most recently in 2017. The main facility features cold plunges, a mildly heated swimming pool, contemporary restaurant and lodge accommodations, while the grounds have additional chalets and basic cottages. There’s also a small spa, independently owned and operated, offering a range of scrubs, muds and massage treatments. halcyon-hotsprings.com
NAKUSP HOT SPRINGS
Nakusp Hot Springs is about a 20-minute drive east from the Village of Nakusp. Tucked into a verdant area next to a rushing mountain stream, the communityowned-and-operated pools are fed from natural mineral springs in the surrounding forest and are renowned for their clarity. Nakusp Hot Springs also has camping – RV drive-in sites and a walk-in tenting area — as well as chalet-style cabins. nakusphotsprings.com
PHOTOS BY SHELLEY ARNUSCH
THOUGHTFUL NEW HOME DESIGNS for Practical and Comfortable Living
NuVista Homes expands its product offerings while continuing to offer intentionally designed forever homes.
For over 25 years, NuVista Homes has built a reputation for delivering quality-built homes and personalized services. This year, the new homebuilder expands its product offerings with eight new show homes and eight new designs soon to come.
With everything from large squarefootage estate homes to lane homes, there’s something to suit everyone’s lifestyle. The company is also breaking ground in new communities, like Calgary’s north-central area in Keystone.
"We’re really excited about the new product offering that we've come up with in that area, where we’re mindful of what the end user is going to need and want in the home,” says Ron Kerr, NuVista’s sales manager.
NuVista’s new show homes and designs cater to a broader range of Calgarians and
intentionally address buyer’s specific asks. “We’ve met with realtors, our salespeople and different groups for their feedback on what home buyers want, then incorporated some of that feedback,” says Kerr. Early in the homebuilding process, the NuVista team intentionally tackles things a customer might not think of until later on to ensure that they love their homes for years to come.
And of course, NuVista works to ensure a seamless design and build process. From thoughtful entrance placement and stair layout when building a basement suite to expansive windows in darker areas of the home, NuVista homes are built for comfort and practicality.
“We’re working together for the same common goal: to deliver the best product to the customer and make sure that they’re happy,” says Kerr.
BY DÉJÀ LEONARD
HELI YES!
Saying you’re going on a “heli-hiking” adventure might sound pretty intense, but it doesn’t have to be about pushing your limits — you can leave the experience feeling grounded, peaceful and relaxed.
Heli-hiking allows you to skip some of the boring parts of hiking and get straight to the incredible views in remote areas. Essentially, a helicopter scoops you up and brings you to remote areas in the back country to take in amazing alpine views and explore the outdoors in a new way.
And, when you go heli-hiking with CMH, it truly is an experience.
CMH offers four- and seven-day tours, and nearly everything is included in the package including accommodations, food and beverages, equipment and transportation right
from the Calgary airport or one of the designated pick-up points along the route to the heli-pad about 20 minutes past Golden, B.C. From there, you’ll take your first 10-minute helicopter ride to the Bobbie Burns Lodge.
Once you arrive at the lodge, the stage for ease is set right away: you’re put into groups (usually six to eight people) based on the type of hikes you’d like to do. Each group is accompanied by one to two guides who will be with you the whole time, teaching you hiking skills, identifying flowers, helping you take Instagram-worthy photos and ensuring safety as you get on and off the helicopter for each hike.
Heli-hikers spend each night in the historic Bobbie Burns Lodge; a cozy but modern retreat that was remodelled in 2019. After your hike, jump in the shower (equipped with Alberta-made bath products), then throw on
your robe and take a short walk through the lodge to the spa where you can enjoy an outdoor hot tub, a sauna and a massage. Keep exploring and you’ll find a fitness facility, outdoor swimming pond and relaxing games you can play before or after dinner.
Each dinner is prepared by talented local chefs and served in courses with an optional wine pairing or suggestions from the inhouse bartender.
After a long day of hiking and a drool-worthy dinner, there’s no doubt you’ll sleep well. But, if you still have some energy, cozy up by the fire in the main lodge area to share your adventures with other guests, or head out onto the expansive patio to experience the stars without light pollution. The next morning, have a hearty breakfast and an optional stretching class before you do it all again!
DID YOU KNOW?
CMH, originally Canadian Mountain Holidays, is a pioneering heliskiing and heli-hiking company that has been delivering life-changing mountain experiences for over 55 years. One of CMH's premier destinations, the fly-in backcountry Bobbie Burns Lodge is nestled at an elevation of 1,360 metres (4,462 feet) in the Purcell Mountains. The lodge underwent an $8.4-million renovation in 2019, enhancing its accommodations with a new guest wing and amenities such as a rooftop hot tub, games room, steam room, dry sauna, indoor climbing wall and a swimming pond. cmhheli.com
PHOTO BY JOHN EVELY, COURTESY OF CMH
BY ANDREW PENNER
IN THE KOOTENAYS
In the early 1900s, the Canadian Pacific Railway hired dozens of Swiss mountain guides to pioneer the climbing programs at its esteemed hotels. In fact, much of Canada’s rich mountaineering history is owed to the Swiss guides and their superior mountaineering skills.
To support the guides and their families — and to give them a taste of the homeland they so dearly missed — the CPR built six Swiss-style chalets in Golden, B.C., to serve as their home base.
Tucked into the mountain pines on a scenic bench above the town, Edelweiss Village is a little slice of Canadian mountaineering history that few people know exists. Until now, that is! Although they lay abandoned for years, the recently restored cabins were
Phase 1 of a new resort with an authentic Swiss heritage.
Established in 1911 and now owned by Montayne, a real estate-development company based in Canmore, Edelweiss Village is once again a thriving little community that invites guests to experience Swiss culture in every aspect of the multiphase resort.
Phase 1 included the extensive and meticulous restoration of the six chalets, significant landscaping and restoration of the rugged mountainside site.
A blend of luxury, simplicity and beautiful original workmanship, the chalets, which are named after the original Swiss families that owned them, truly afford an opportunity for guests to unwind, unplug and reconnect with nature. While offering a “step back in time,” each chalet also includes many of the mod-
ern amenities and comforts you’d expect at a luxurious resort.
While the resort is already welcoming guests, there are many more exciting things to come. Phases 2 and 3 of the development are currently underway and expected to be complete in 2027/28. New additions will include a Swiss spa and thermal pools, saunas, massage facilities, additional cabins, eco pods, a Swiss Cafe, and the Swiss Guide Great Hall. Obviously, all of these additions will support and enhance your immersion into the Swiss way of life. Naturally, guests are also encouraged to hit a hiking trail and enjoy the great outdoors during their stay. Yodelling is encouraged, but optional.
376 Ottoson Rd., G olden, B.C., edelweissvillage.ca
BY EULA MENGULLO
WHERE COMFORT MEETS ADVENTURE
INDULGE IN A DELUXE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE AT ONE OF THESE GLAMPING DESTINATIONS.
eeking an outdoor adventure without sacrificing the luxuries of a cabin in the woods? Glamping could be the perfect experience for you. Glamping — a portmanteau of glamorous camping — provides adventurers all the beauty of the outdoors alongside the amenities of home, whether that’s electricity, a bed or just the pleasure of not having to set up your own lodgings.
SBEAR SPRING ECO RETREAT
Fall asleep beneath the stars in the comfort of one of Bear Spring Eco Retreat’s glamping tents. Owned and operated by Solita Work — a former Calgarian who used to operate ReWorks Eco Store — this property in the Selkirk mountains of the West Kootenays features an outdoor shower, a communal cooking and campfire area, scenic walking trails, a recreational gaming spot, and a vibrant garden. From May to October, guests stay in canvas Stargazer tents featuring plastic skylight windows and furnished with cozy pillows on a queen bed with natural cotton bedding, side tables and more.
Guests can also buy a glamper meal kit filled with recipes and locally sourced ingredients, taking the hassle out of meal prep, plus reducing waste as the kits come in reusable containers. bearspringeco.ca
ELEVATED ESCAPES IN BRAGG CREEK
Elevated Escapes features a few destinations, including the Riverside glamping domes situated on an Indigenous-owned family campground. Accessible yearround, the six domes along the
Elbow River are only five minutes from Bragg Creek, offering a convenient and accessible respite for urbanites. Fully equipped with a firepit, solar lights and a private portable toilet, the domes now allow for winter glamping with wood stove heating (though packing layers and water are a must). For those after a more authentic camping experience, Elevated also offers a few rustic, canvas-walled riverside tents during the warmer seasons.
elevatedescapes.ca
BRIDGEVIEWS RETREAT
Located in a valley beside Bridge #1 to Wayne, Bridgeviews offers a themed variety of fully furnished geodomes and glamping yurts for guests to enjoy. This private, scenic campsite is complete with hot showers, outdoor portable toilets, a hand-washing station, a breakfast area and an outdoor game station. During the warmer months, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the creek and enjoy the Badlands landscape.
Just a 10-minute drive from Drumheller and the Royal Tyrrell Museum, retreat visitors can enjoy an outdoor vacation and a trip back in time all in one excursion. bridgeviews.ca
BEAR SPRING ECO RETREAT’S GLAMPING TENTS.
BEAR SPRING ECO RETREAT’S GLAMPING TENTS AT NIGHT.
A REFRESHING TRIO OF ALCOHOL-FREE COCKTAILS AT LULU BAR (L TO R): BEACH HAT, HAWAIIAN HONEYCREEPER AND PINK PONY CLUB.
BY EULA MENGULLO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JARED SYCH
BEVERAGES CHEERSTO BOOZE-FREE
As Calgary’s social drinking scene changes, local drinkmakers step up to meet the zero-proof demand.
Social drinking culture has changed in recent years, driving a demand for low- to no-alcohol selections. Post-pandemic statistics show a decisive change in people’s drinking habits. Particularly among Gen-Z and Millenials, the “sober curious” lifestyle seems to have taken hold. But low- and non-alcoholic beverages are surging in popularity with others, too — parents who want a drink, but still need to parent; people who are choosing healthier lifestyles and don’t want the calories (or hangovers); and those on sobriety journeys. As well, the shift to more flexible work arrangements means more people are working outside of the regular 9 to 5, so may want to have a tasty beverage with dinner before returning to work. But, is the move towards zero-proof drinking just another fleeting trend that will eventually slip our subconscious and disappear, or is this a lasting cultural shift?
For Jonathan Barembruch, the answer is re-
soundingly clear — the move to booze-free beverages is a deliberate and permanent lifestyle decision for many. As the founder of Calgarybased Santé Dry Bottle Shop, Barembruch’s idea of creating a one-stop destination for quality non-alcoholic libations began in 2022, when his wife became pregnant. They sought a zero-proof alternative to preserve the enjoyment of sharing a drink.
“It sent me down a journey of trying to find good drinks for us to enjoy so we could keep up our usual rituals of enjoying a drink together,” he says. Barembruch's curiosity eventually led him to the U.S. where he saw that non-alcoholic drinks were readily available in retail storefronts, affirming that this is not only a feasible business idea, but also highlighting the considerable lack of a comparable selection in Canada. “It was about access to 'good enough' non-alcoholic drinks,” he says.
The pandemic also acted as a catalyst for many to reflect on their lifestyle choices, and, according to Barembruch, moderating alcohol intake was a huge part of that.
“COVID certainly accelerated the movement towards a non-alcoholic lifestyle,” he says. “[People realized] that they need to take care of themselves a little bit more in terms of what they’re putting in their body and keeping a healthy mind.”
Calgary’s food and hospitality scene is responding to this zero-proof transition not only by offering more juice and pop, but by sourcing alcohol-free varieties of popular beers and spirits, and creating thoughtfully crafted mocktails. In some places, fulsome non-alcoholic drink menus are on offer, and, truth be told, as tempting if not more so than the alcoholic versions. “The quality has just gotten so much better, especially with a zero-proof cocktail,” Barembruch says. “Just having access to good-quality, non-alcoholic drinks allows people to make a choice on how and when they want to consume alcohol. And that’s what it really comes down to.”
If you want to exercise your choice in zeroproof bevvies, here are suggestions of local watering holes that are bringing unique approaches to meet the rising alcohol-free lifestyle.
THE DERRICK GIN MILL & UNTITLED CHAMPAGNE LOUNGE
A few years ago, proprietor Nathan Newman decided to moderate his alcohol consumption, but quickly realized the limited quality choices that were available. This propelled him to introduce a finely crafted non-alcoholic spirits line at both of his restaurants, The Derrick Gin Mill and Untitled Champagne Lounge. In collaboration with his chefs, Newman’s approach to curating original nonalcoholic spirits involved an intricate process of trying out interesting culinary techniques to
obtain the indistinguishable flavour and texture of a typical alcoholic beverage. To achieve the smokiness of the non-alcoholic mezcal, for instance, the team turned to liquid smoke that is commonly used for cooking, along with roasted peanuts infused with different cooking bases to mimic the alcoholic texture. Plus, they've crafted alcohol-free gin, amaro, bitters and more. “There’s clearly a burned alcohol [taste] that's gonna be really hard to emulate in any non-alcoholic spirit, but what we’ve
tried to do is come as close as we can,” he says. Some of Newman’s favourites include the Mezcalarita made with the aforementioned mezcal mixed with house-made orange liqueur for a citrusy blend, and the Lavender Lime 75, which is largely a spin on the French 75 made with in-house, non-alcoholic gin and lime-flavoured sparkling water. “There’s gonna be a feeling like you’re drinking alcohol,” Newman says. “But you’re not getting any of the negative effects of the alcohol.”
DERRICK GIN MILL'S MEZCALARITA.
Tigrato Shred technology for remarkable blister coverage & uniformity
Ample free oil for indulgent experience
Ideal for exceptional cheese coverage
Unparalleled melting behaviour for mouthwatering texture
Rich, buttery & creamy flavour profile
LULU BAR
One of Calgary's most fun places to dine and socialize, Lulu Bar (part of the Concorde Entertainment Group) entered the local dining scene in 2019, so it’s no surprise that it offers an extensive selection of non-alcoholic drinks that lives up to the fresh, relaxed and tropical vibes of this vacation-inspired gem. “Our ethos is to create a shared experience,” says Makina Labrecque, Concorde’s regional bar manager, about the intention behind the extended alcohol-free program. “People in hospitality love going out to dine, and that’s something that’s so ingrained in the fabric of who we are that we want to make sure that [everyone] who comes to our venue can get a highend experience, whether [they’re] drinking or not.” Lulu Bar’s zero-proof options are as plentiful as alcoholic ones, including beer, wine and cocktails galore.
In capturing the taste and texture of a fine cocktail, Labrecque says it’s all about finding balance in using alternative ingredients like apple cider vinegar and taking a culinary approach to come up with different techniques. “[We] lean a little bit more into a culinary mindset when creating the alcohol-free drinks and using alternatives like fermenting your own ingredients to add texture.”
Lulu Bar’s Hawaiian Honeycreeper is a personal favourite for Labrecque, inspired by the classic jungle bird cocktail. It's made with in-house roasted pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, and alcohol-free dark and spicy tropical rum with honey and topped with bibi, an Italian spritz aperitivo.
PROOF'S FROM THE START COCKTAIL.
PROOF
At the forefront of Calgary’s cocktail culture, Proof has always devoted space on its menu for low-ABV (alcohol by volume) and non-alcoholic drinks. Taking note of the increasing preference for alcohol-free libations, Proof was quick to broaden its selection to further accommodate the zero-proof experience. Currently, Proof has a full page of cocktails dedicated to non-drinkers that includes an assortment of tropical and classic flavours. It also offers non-alcoholic red and sparkling white wines, and lowerABV and non-alcoholic beers. General manager Callum Johnston shares that in crafting these beverages, a specific focus was dedicated to honing the flavour component by experimenting with cordials, purées and blends of teas to create the desired taste. “We’re not just taking a gin cocktail and replacing it with a nonalcoholic spirit, we’re actually dedicating the time and effort to [work] with the flavours,” he says.
In particular, he recommends Proof's most popular cocktail, From the Start. This fruity and tropical refreshment is made with a blend of passionfruit, hop water, martini floreale, a dash of aperitivo and white cranberry juice. Johnston shares that a big challenge for bartenders in crafting non-alcoholic cocktails has been trying to preserve body in the drinks without adding sugar. “This cocktail has all the body and all the flavour you want, but it’s not sweet,” he says.
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CONTEMPORARY CALGARY’S
LOOK25 GALA: NOIR NOUVEAU
MAY 31, 2025
Everyone’s favourite four-letter word is back — LOOK! Calgary’s most anticipated annual celebration of contemporary art brings the community together to support the ongoing work of Contemporary Calgary. We are grateful to welcome MAWER as the Presenting Sponsor for this remarkable evening.
This notorious art gala and auction will celebrate creativity and expression with the theme “Noir Nouveau,” inspired by the work of renowned local artist Simone Elizabeth Saunders. Infused with the intricate beauty of Art Nouveau and Simone’s powerful themes of strength, joy, and resilience, the evening promises an unforgettable experience.
PROUDLY PRESENTED BY
VIP DINNER SPONSOR
ART AUCTION SPONSOR
AFTER PARTY SPONSOR HEATHER EDWARDS RYAN GREEN
MAJOR TOM’S BLAZING SEVENS ($13)
Served in a rocks glass, this milk-clarified cocktail is made of non-alcoholic dry gin, smoked Lapsang tea, strawberry, rhubarb and lime.
CALCUTTA CRICKET
CLUB’S HAALDI TONIC ($7.50)
Comprised of honey, turmeric, ginger, lemon and tonic, this flavourful refresher can be topped with chilies to add a little kick.
LUCA’S SANGUINE SPRITZ ($16)
A blend of sanbitter and aranciata rosso Sicilian blood orange soda with GiGi red bitter, topped with 0% proof blanc de blanc prosecco.
Delivering Personalized and Informed Healthcare JW
Health practitioners see fewer patients to ensure meaningful, quality care.
In 2023, Dr. Malika Hudani and her husband, RJ Jamal, set out to offer a healthcare model that ensures trusted, meaningful and comprehensive care. With Hudani’s training and experience as a family physician and Jamal’s business and
finance background, the result was JW Health, a Calgary-based private clinic.
The couple’s venture into private practice came after Hudani struggled to give her patients the time and care she wanted to provide. “My practice style is getting to know people and taking the time to understand the
whole person,” she says. “It’s really hard to care for 2,000 people that you only see once for a few minutes.”
Now, through JW Health, Hudani sees less than 200 patients, allowing her and her team to get to know clients well and treat them in a timely manner. The clinic’s healthcare providers see patients for no less than 30 minutes at a time, and patients can visit the providers as frequently as needed.
“Getting time from a doctor, nutritionist or psychotherapist is probably one of the most important things you can do for your health. During this time, you can learn about your body and move your health forward. This is where all the important value is,” says Jamal.
Hudani, the clinic’s medical director, and Jamal, the executive director, started the clinic to allow healthcare providers the time to build trusted relationships with their patients and remove any friction patients might face while navigating referrals and specialists.
“Patients are hungry to be heard, to tell their story, and our program allows for that,” says Hudani.
HEALTHCARE MADE SIMPLE
JW Health clients pay an annual rate and receive all of the clinic’s programs and services with few limitations or hidden fees.
The clinic has an app to book your appointments, or you can text and email, too. For routine appointments, JW Health welcomes patients within the same or following week, and for more pressing acute matters, you can get a same- or next-day appointment. JW Health also offers virtual healthcare services, like virtual appointments or online prescription fills if you ever get sick while away.
“We always tell our patients, ‘Because we are low volume, we take the time to be completely
JW Health team: (left to right) Dr. Malika Hudani with Dogtor Crumbs, RJ Jamal, Dr. Kare Wallace and Lisa Moon
Evidence shows that having as many of your healthcare needs within a medical home leads to better outcomes.”
— Dr. Malika Hudani
integrated in your life,’” says Jamal.
Medical visits can be anxiety-inducing, and patients may forget things they want to ask or what the physician has explained. JW Health patients can text clinicians if they have followup questions after any appointment — the through-line of communication is always there.
“We want to take away the anxiety and reassure them throughout the process by letting them know what we’re doing, the reasoning behind it and how it benefits them,” says Jamal. “When people leave our office, they leave informed and prepared for any next steps, and that’s the most important thing.”
COMPREHENSIVE CARE
Hudani’s approach to care pays close attention to mental health — it’s part of why the clinic offers psychotherapy.
“Our psychotherapy provides an avenue for change where patients truly feel seen,” explains
Jamal. “We want to make sure that we don’t ever discount you or that we didn’t hear you.”
Along with family medicine and mental health resources, the clinic offers nutrition services as part of a holistic approach to health and well-being. The JW Health team works together, relaying information to one another during weekly meetings to provide fully rounded care.
“Evidence shows that having as many of your healthcare needs within a medical home leads to better outcomes,” says Hudani.
A CURATED TEAM
“We’ve selected really great team members with similar values, and they all have the same priority to provide an integrated standard of care while making it meaningful,” says Hudani.
Dr. Kare Wallace is the clinic’s psychotherapist. She has her PhD in psychotherapy and specializes in transitions
To
learn more, visit jwhealth.ca.
and grief. Her model of care ensures she truly gets to know each of her patients and acts as a confidant.
Lisa Moon, JW Health’s registered dietician, knows that food and nutrition go beyond a balanced plate. She understands that the brain, gut and body are all connected, and her approach to nutrition reflects that.
And while in the office, you may stumble across Dogtor Crumbs, Hudani and Jamal’s Brusell Griffon puppy, who occasionally wanders the clinic helping patients with a dose of cuddles and cuteness.
Together with Jamal’s father, Dr. Zahir Jamal, who provides advisory and support services, the JW Health team is aligned on its mission to offer personalized care. As a physician-led and family-owned clinic, JW Health has an unwavering commitment to transparency, trust and creating an environment where patients feel heard.
Dr. Malika Hudani with a young JW Health patient.
glamourous infinity pool, an enormous sunken fireplace and a complete outdoor kitchen aren’t typical features of a Calgary-area home. But, for a Springbank family of five, that was exactly the point. “They wanted it to look like The Four Seasons,” says Jenn MacDonald of DWK Interiors, which designed the project with landscape designer/builder VisionScapes.
Katie Rioux, DWK’s founder and lead designer, says the backyard reno began during the COVID-19 pandemic, and travel restrictions inspired the grandiose vision. “The thinking was, ‘If we can't go away to a resort, why don't we bring the resort to us?’” Rioux says.
The homeowner describes the original outdoor area as “a clean slate” — an overgrown field of nothing but grass and potential. The reno began as a fairly modest endeavour, but as the family, DWK and VisionScapes worked together, and the uncertainty brought by the pandemic continued, the project grew. A humble pool became a sizable showstopper with dramatic fire bowls. A small water feature became a dreamy stream surrounding a huge outdoor sunken living room. An outdoor cooking area became a total gourmet kitchen with built-in storage, leathered granite countertops and a pizza oven, direct from Italy.
The homeowners’ style leans modern, so the design team embraced high-contrast elements and colours. The materials are beautiful, but also functional. “Aesthetically, it looks really nice, and it’s very easy to maintain,” says the homeowner. The sunken fire pit, for example, is made of concrete, with cushions crafted from weather-ready, simple-to-clean fabric.
Though travel is now back on the table, the family (and their many guests) is more than happy to check-in at their private oasis instead. "On any given weekend, we have 20-ish people over,” the homeowner shares. The stunning backyard retreat is like going on vacation, right outside their back door.
Transforming a grassy field into a luxury vacation-level backyard family resort.
GOBIGAND
GOHOME
BY ALYSSA HIROSE
THE FIRE PIT
Thirty or so people can fit comfortably around the sunken fire pit, which the homeowner says wasn’t originally planned to be so large, but the more, the merrier. “We just went from zero to 100,” she affirms.
THE DECK
Furnishings from Bernhardt make the upper-patio area totally lounge-worthy, and, thanks to screens and accordion doors, it’s a year-round hangout spot.
THE DINING AREA
A pretty pergola and wowworthy industrial chandelier make the dining table its own special moment. “It’s my favourite spot in this whole design,” says MacDonald.
THE EXTRAS
On top of the beautiful lounge spaces, the backyard also has a mini-putt course and a full sport court. “Our home is a hub for family and friends, and the space is grand enough to accommodate it all," says the homeowner.
Featuring incredible experiences such as the RBC Championship Pro-Am, Blakes Women’s Day, and many hospitality and hosting options! AT THE 2025 ROGERS CHARITY CLASSIC!
August 11–17, 2025 Canyon
Here, it’s possible.
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