1. What brought you to study Holistic Nutrition at IHN?

I’ve always had a deep interest in food and nutrition, supported by formal training in both culinary arts and nutritional sciences. Despite this background, I felt there was a missing piece—an understanding of how to view health in a more integrated, whole-person way. I chose to return to school to study holistic nutrition at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition so I could learn how to approach wellness from a preventative and root-cause perspective, bridging food, lifestyle, and awareness to support long-term health.

2. What professions have you worked in prior to enrolling at IHN?

I spent over 15 years working in the restaurant industry, beginning as a prep cook and eventually moving into menu development. Alongside this, I’ve worked as a yoga and Pilates teacher. Most recently, I opened a holistic retreat centre, Toronto Island Oasis, where I offer classes, retreats, venue rentals, nutritional services, and overnight stays.

3. What degrees or academic achievements did you have prior to IHN?

My post-secondary education began with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Okanagan College. Years later, I completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition and Food, with a minor in Biology, as well as a Certificate in Food Security from Toronto Metropolitan University. In addition, I am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 470) trained in Vinyasa, Aerial, Hatha, and Yoga Nidra, and a Certified Pilates Instructor (PMI).

4. What are your goals/aspirations as a CNP?

Becoming a CNP is a meaningful addition to a skill set I’ve been cultivating for many years. My long-term goal is to grow a private practice that integrates nutrition, food, and movement to support sustainable living. I aim to offer personalized nutritional counselling, with a particular focus on autoimmune conditions. I’m passionate about food literacy and enjoy teaching practical food skills that empower people to make informed choices. Across my work, I weave in yogic movement and mindfulness philosophies to support both physical and emotional well-being.

5. What is something you overcame in your life, that you didn’t think you could?

In 2022, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurodegenerative autoimmune disease, following a life-changing episode. That moment became a profound wake-up call and reshaped how I relate to my body, my energy, and my life. It pushed me to slow down, listen more deeply, and redefine what health truly means. It marked the beginning of a deeper commitment to sustainable, compassionate self-care—an approach that now informs both my personal life and my professional work.

6. What has been your personal best achievement?

Following my MS diagnosis, I knew meaningful lifestyle changes were necessary, even though I wasn’t sure what was possible at the time. During my recovery, I began envisioning what would eventually become Toronto Island Oasis. What started as a quiet dream became a true labour of love, and last year marked our first full season in operation. Building this space has been deeply rewarding, and I feel proud to be actively creating a more sustainable, values-aligned life for myself and my family.

7. What is something about you that would surprise people?

I’m a dedicated yogini who loves to challenge my body through movement. Yoga is my primary form of physical practice, and I especially enjoy working on arm balances and inversions. I also practice aerial yoga—where movement is supported by a suspended hammock—as well as acro yoga, a playful partner-based practice that blends yoga and acrobatics. Exploring strength, trust, and play through movement brings me a great deal of happiness.

8. Is there anything you would like to share about your experience at IHN so far?

My experience at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition has been a refreshing and inspiring return to education. The program fosters a highly supportive and engaging online community, which has made learning feel both accessible and collaborative. I’ve especially appreciated the practical insights instructors share, drawing from their professional practice and lived experience—knowledge that feels immediately applicable and relevant. This approach has been a welcome contrast to my undergraduate studies and has reaffirmed my desire to work in a hands-on, client-centered field.