2026 Presenters

2026 PRESENTERS 

Anne Marie Hogya

Bio: Anne Marie Hogya is an Occupational Therapist, 5Rhythms® facilitator, and DJ known for creating grounded, welcoming group experiences that support participation, connection, and confidence. In her occupational therapy practice, she specializes in exposure therapy with individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, and pain that interfere with daily function and engagement. With more than 30 years as an occupational therapist, over 20 years teaching movement, and a Master’s in Leadership and Adult Learning, she brings together clinical expertise, practical tools, and creative leadership.

 

Brenda Adams

Bio: Brenda is a Professor of Kinesiology at Vancouver Island University and a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Victoria. Her research looks at the challenges Personal Trainers face in maintaining their own health and wellness with the aim to inform future curriculum and interventions that better support trainers in their personal and professional lives. With more than 29 years as an Exercise Professional and 23 years dedicated to supporting others in the industry, Brenda brings extensive practical experience to her work. As a kinesiologist, adult educator, and certified Life Coach, she is known for her ability to teach for deep understanding and practical application.

Brian Justin

Bio: Brian has been in the fitness industry for 32 years and currently working as a full time Kinesiology Faculty Member at the University of the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford/Chilliwack BC where he teaches Exercise Physiology, Exercise Testing and Prescription, Strength and Conditioning, Persistent Pain Management Strategies, and Post Rehabilitation Techniques. Brian is currently pursuing a PhD in Pain Management with a lifestyle medicine lens. He earned his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Kinesiology from the University of British Columbia.

Krista Popowych

Bio: Krista Popowych (Bachelor of Human Kinetics) is one of the fitness industry’s leading experts, and a highly sought after educator and presenter on group fitness, personal training and program management. Krista has dedicated her entire career to inspiring others through movement and education. She has travelled the globe sharing her passion and knowledge and has been recognized both by IDEA as a Fitness Instructor of the Year and honoured three-times by Canfitpro as the Canadian Fitness Presenter of the Year. She is a published author (Partner Workouts, Human Kinetics, 2022) and is the Global Director of Group Education for Keiser. She is also an educator for Balanced Body and the Integrated Movement Specialist program, an advisory member, media personality, and supports other key industry initiatives. Krista enjoys spending time with family and friends in Vancouver BC

Sonja Bidese

Bio: Sonja Bidese is the owner of Success Fitness and an award-winning BCRPA Fitness Professional with over 30 years of experience in the Health and Wellness industry. She is a BCRPA Trainer of Fitness Leaders, Certified Personal Trainer, Registered Holistic Nutritionist, and Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist (RCRT™). Sonja is passionate about mentoring fitness professionals and helping clients achieve sustainable results. “You don’t need to be perfect to be powerful—just real.”

 

Veronique Mercier

Bio: Véronique is a fitness professional with over 20 years of teaching experience and the co-founder and CEO of Partyfit®, a dance fitness program blending simple dance moves with functional movement. She is also the founder of VeroFitness, where she offers in-person and on-demand classes that emphasize proper form, mindful movement, and functional strength. Through her dynamic teaching style, she helps people move with confidence and joy in ways that carry beyond the studio.