Gratitude is the first word that comes to mind as I reflect on this year’s canfitpro Global Conference & Tradeshow. For 32 years, I have had the privilege of being part of this annual gathering, and every so often, a world event reminds me why this conference is about so much more than fitness. It becomes a test of resilience, a lesson in leadership, and a celebration of the power of connection.
This year, the challenge came from the skies. In the days leading up to Global, Air Canada grounded 500 flights on day one of our event, threatening to disrupt our carefully planned agenda and the travel of more than 100 presenters. Yet, despite the uncertainty and no guarantee of a return flight, all but two presenters made it to Toronto. They showed up with passion, professionalism, and a peak attitude to serve our industry. Some are waiting for flights home three days later, but you won’t hear complaints. Instead, you hear gratitude. Their commitment was an inspiring reminder that when the world closes in, leaders rise. We soar out of our comfort zone and find a way forward together.
The second epic moment came during our Closing Delegate Reception, when Canadian music icon Jully Black took the stage. For the first time in canfitpro’s history, we ended our event with a live concert. Jully, this year’s Sharon Mann Inspiration Award recipient, embodied the theme of passion meeting purpose, courage meeting action and influence meeting inspiration. Her powerful voice and message united us in celebration—of music, movement, and the joy of being together again. It was more than a concert; it was a collective exhale, a reminder of why connection matters so deeply in our industry and our lives.
The conference also provided us with unforgettable keynotes and sessions that challenged us to grow. Orlando Bowen, a former Canadian football player who turned his tragedy into a mission of resilience and leadership, moved us with his story of transformation. Mike Lipkin inspired us with strategies to become “Potentiators”—leaders who create breakthroughs by connecting deeply with others. Their messages resonated with our theme of SOAR, helping us see that within every setback lies the seed of a breakthrough.
And of course, no Global would be complete without honouring excellence. This year, we celebrated with so many outstanding professionals, including Greg Lawlor (and Matrix Fitness), Lisa Mastracchio, Martin Rooney, Robert Linkul, Theresa Rindress, Milad Emadi, Chuck Lawson (posthumously), Bill Kirby, Simon Paige, Jodie Boettger, Rahmi Diomande, Blenda Chan, Trevor Pickett, and Jully Black. Each one is proof of what’s possible when passion aligns with purpose.
As I reflect, the lessons are clear:
Resilience is not about avoiding challenges but choosing to rise in the face of them. Connection is the heartbeat of our industry, and when we unite, we achieve more than we imagined possible.
To everyone who attended canfitpro Global 2025—in person or online—thank you. Your presence, your energy, and your feedback help us continue to evolve this experience. The recordings of sessions and keynotes are coming your way, so keep the learning alive and purpose strong.
Together, we proved once again that the opportunity to SOAR further, faster, and stronger is always within our reach. Can’t wait to see what the next season will bring!
