Celebrity Cooking Stage|SHOW SCHEDULE
Celebrate the best of BC with top chefs and cookbook authors focusing on local ingredients.
Broadcast Kate, MC for Cooking Stage Kate is thrilled to be back for a third year MCing the Celebrity Cooking Stage at this year's Wellness Show in Vancouver. Originally from Winnipeg, Kate has spent the last 14 years living in Vancouver working in film and television and has been seen and heard on several lower mainland TV and radio broadcasts. Kate can be seen on CTV as a morning local news anchor and can be heard on talk radio 1410AM, The Buzz of Vancouver, as a fill-in host. When Kate isn't in front of the camera or behind the microphone she's busy working as a field producer for studios and networks. In her off time she enjoys running, photography and travel, and her guilty pleasures include exquisite cuisine and delectable wine - especially from B.C.
Bal Arneson
Aaron Ash Aaron Ash is the founder of Gorilla Food, an organic, vegan, raw food restaurant in downtown Vancouver. He loves to bring joy and wellness through ital live food creation.
Vikram Bajaj
Vikram Bajaj was born in India, studied in Switzerland, operated restaurants & hotels with family in India and came to Canada in 1997, looking for something more. Vikram brings to the table a culture of exotic tastes and the finer things in life and enjoys creating spice blends for Ace Curries To Go.
Jasvir Deol
Jas grew up in a small village in Punjab, working the fields from a tender age where she developed her taste for all things natural and wholesome. She moved to Canada when she was only 14 and after studying here worked her way up a well established restaurant chain before joining Ace Curries To Go.
Peter Burt
Antonio Cerullo Antonio Cerullo was born in Glasgow and after a few short weeks returned to Lake Como in Northern Italy, where he spent his youth. At the age of 15 his passion for food was evident and he began apprenticing with a local chef. In his early 20s Antonio moved to Canada and experienced working under an interesting array of mentors at many top-notch kitchens throughout BC and Alberta. With the turn of the century Antonio returned to Lake Como where he opened a unique restaurant called La Cucina della Marianna, where fresh and local ingredients were a must. Antonio enthusiastically joined the Choices team in 2005 and has since proudly taken the reigns of Choices Kitchen as the company's Executive Chef.
Robert Clark
Raincity Grill, C Restaurant + nu restaurant + lounge, Executive Chef, Robert Clark began his culinary training at Ontario's George Brown College, graduating in 1982. Throughout his career he has trained with Canada's top chefs such as Jamie Kennedy, Michael Bonaccini and Mark Thuet. Clark's belief in food is pure and simple: “As chefs, our job is not only about serving great tasting food, but encouraging our staff and our guests to learn how to get sustainably produced food to the table.” Only quality, sustainable products from earth and sea are used as the building blocks of his cuisine.
Alessandra & Jean-Francis Quaglia Alessandra and Jean-Francis Quaglia are a husband-and-wife chef team who met in Nice, France, as Chefs. Allessandra comes from a family of cooks and Jean-Francis cooked at the restaurant run by his mother. They moved to Canada in 1992 and opened their first Provence restaurant in Vancouver in 1997, followed by a second opening in 2000.
Nicolas Lim
At the age of 25, Nicholas Lim became one of the youngest Executive Chefs in Vancouver. Classically trained at the Dubrulle Culinary Institute, Nik quickly rose to the rank of executive Sous Chef for some of the city’s most influential kitchens including Caffe de Medici and the Hart House Restaurant. In September of 2008 he was appointed to the position of Executive Chef of Gusto di Quattro. His tenure at Gusto di Quattro has been welcomed to many accolades and has seen him raise the bar and blur the lines of classic regional Italian and innovative cutting edge cuisine. Nik’s philosophy on cooking is to “keep it simple,” and his approach on the plate blends the dimensions of texture, flavour and colour into works of art.
Dr. Rhonda Low
Dr. Rhonda Low hosts Your Health daily on CTV News, providing information current to today’s health issues. She also writes the Your Health column found weekly in TV Week magazine. Dr. Low’s community medical services include examiner for the Clinical Competence Program of B.C. for U.B.C. and the College of Physicians and Surgeons as well as Secretary/Executive Committee Member for St. Paul’s Hospital Annual Refresher Course for Primary Care Physicians. She is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of British Columbia.
Hilit Nurick
Hilit graduated from the Arts Institute of Vancouver (Dubrulle) and completed her practicum in the pastry kitchen at the Pan Pacific Hotel. She owns The Dizzy Whisk (formerly known as Culinary Kids), and teaches cooking and baking to kids from grade 2-12. She also runs popular interactive cooking and baking birthday parties. She is married and has three kids.
Jennifer Peters
Growing up in the Fraser Valley means that Peters calls Vancouver “home”. She loves the bounty and quality of local products and the concept of the “100 Mile Diet”. Peters began her career at La Belle Auberge, worked overseas in the UK where she completed stints at Mosimann’s private dining room and Sir Terence Conran’s Almeida before moving back to Canada. Her passion for the industry continued to build as she spent time honing her skills at both Diva at the Met and The Pear Tree before landing at The Raincity Grill.
Hidekazu Tojo
Hidekazu Tojo was born in Japan. As a young man, he traveled to Osaka to apprentice at Ohnoya, famed Ryotei or classic Japanese fine dining. In 1988 he opened Tojo's Restaurant and in 2007 moved to the current location. Tojo ventured to North America in 1971 and chose Vancouver as the perfect place to further develop his craft. Tojo is the inventor of the California Roll and BC Roll which are well known, even in Japan.
Terry Walters
Terry Walters is all about good health – Body, Mind, and Soul. For the past 9 years, she has been teaching people how to make delicious, healthy foods to nourish themselves and their families. CLEAN FOOD grew out of her work and that passion for eating close to the source. Terry is a holistic health counselor, food educator, motivational speaker and devoted to teaching people how to make healthy choices. She draws from extensive educational and life experiences including training from The Institute of Integrative Nutrition, The Natural Gourmet Cookery School, The Kushi Institute and The Chopra Center.
Seminar Stages|SHOW SCHEDULE
Attend some of our cutting-edge presentations by authoritative sources on today's most pressing health and wellness issues. Be entertained with high energy and education information reflecting the interests in good health, nutrition, physical and emotional well-being.
Please check website frequently for further updates!
Living Well:
Michael D'Alton Dublin born Bio-Energy Trainer Michael D'Alton has practiced and taught the art of Bio-Energy Healing for over 17 years. As a leader in the field of Energy Medicine, Michael has worked extensively in Ireland, the UK and now Canada and his accomplishments include being featured on the television shows ‘Remedy Me!’ (W Network) and ‘First Talk’ (Joy TV).
Olga Kotelko Olga Kotelko has been an inspiration and a catalyst for self re-assessment and fellow competition for all ages. At age 70, she first hit the sports radar playing second base for the North Shore Slow Pitch team and has since amassed over 600 gold medals in Track and Field. In 2009 alone, Olga established 32 World Records! Olga is the first woman at 90 ever to compete in high jump, long jump and triple jump.
Alyssa Laing Alyssa Laing is the Head Trainer at Nikkei (Canada) Marketing Ltd. for all retailer and consumer events. Alyssa has been with the company from the beginning and has witnessed the successful growth and recognition of the Mikei Red Reishi and its amazing properties and medicinal benefits.
Lana Lauder Lana Lauder is a holistic health researcher, educator and entrepreneur who is a passionate teacher and loves to support others in their personal discovery of the incredible healing power that lies within every human being. Having become a quadriplegic at the age of 15, and spending years in the traditional medical system, Lana is very familiar with the lack of answers and solutions therein to various personal health challenges.
Desiree Nielsen Desiree Nielsen, BSc RD received her degree from the University of British Columbia and completed her dietetic internship with Capital Health in Edmonton. Registered with the BC College of Dietitians, Desiree is also a proud member of Dietitians of Canada and works as a dietitian advisor to the Vancouver chapter of the Canadian Celiac Association. Desiree advocates that good food is the cornerstone of a lifestyle that prevents chronic disease and promotes energy, vitality and overall wellbeing.
Andre Noel Potvin André Noël Potvin is a fitness educator and rehabilitation exercise specialist with 22 years of leadership experience and 13 years of specialization in clinical exercise and post-injury rehabilitation. André holds a M.Sc. in cardiac rehabilitation from the University of British Columbia, is a certified Clinical Exercise Specialist (CES) of the American Council on Exercise and an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).
Sanja Tamburic Dr. Tamburic is a licensed Naturopathic Physician and Certified Bowen Health Therapist. Her goal is to bridge Allopathic and Naturopathic Medicine. In her practice she integrates her knowledge of the science and art of Naturopathic and Conventional Medicine. Dr. Tamburic BA, ND is licensed with the College of Naturopathic Physicians and is a member of BC Naturopathic Association, Canadian Naturopathic Doctors Association and the Bowen Practitioner Association of North America.
Gilly Thomas Gilly Thomas is a teacher and lifelong learner. She develops presentations which incorporate experiential as well as intellectual aspect so that people "get it from the inside out". Her background is in education, psychology and nursing and is a certified Rubenfeld Synergist, which works with the dynamic interrelation of the body, mind, emotions and spirit.
Frank Tufaro Dr. Tufaro has a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from McGill University, and did his postdoctoral research at The Fred Hutchinson Cancer center in Seattle. In 1987, Frank joined the faculty in the Department of Microbiology at the University of British Columbia, and has since published extensively on his research in the areas of herpes viruses, cancer, and gene therapy. Frank left the University in 2000 to launch several successful biotech companies working on cancer and immunity, including Allera Health Products.
Kareen Zebroff Kareen Zebroff has taught and worked as a daily network TV-Host/Interviewer for 16 years, Yoga-teacher, Master Meditator for Affirmations & Visualizations, Schoolteacher, Author of 10 books, Columnist for ‘Common Ground’, Nutritionist, Mentor, and Lecturer on ‘Wholistic Health’ of Body, Mind and Spirit.
Women & Wellness:
Joanna Banka Joanna Banka is a Registered Clinical Counselling-Hypnotherapist and Vice President of the Association Of Registered Clinical Hypnotherapists (ARCH). In her private practice, Turning Point Hypnotherapy, she works with her clients in helping them overcome personal barriers by drawing upon compassion and a strong technical foundation. Trauma, self esteem issues and weight management are her areas of specialty.
Ann Barnes Ann Barnes is a mother of two young children, who left her fast-paced legal career to pursue her love of family health, nutrition and easy healthy-home cooking. Now leading an organic, vegetarian lifestyle, Ann shares her simple answers for healthy living with mums across Canada.
Sarah Dakin Sarah Dakin, MEd, is the founder of Baby Steps Life Coaching and the creator of Vancouver's first Happiness Circle. When not helping busy moms stay on track with what matters, she can be found baking muffins with her two young sons.
Michael D'Alton Dublin born Bio-Energy Trainer Michael D'Alton has practiced and taught the art of Bio-Energy Healing for over 17 years. As a leader in the field of Energy Medicine, Michael has worked extensively in Ireland, the UK and now Canada and his accomplishments include being featured on the television shows ‘Remedy Me!’ (W Network) and ‘First Talk’ (Joy TV).
Leah Douglas Leah Douglas, PhD, is a social worker and the food-loving author of "The Gourmet Pregnancy", a cookbook for pregnant women who want to enjoy eating without stress. She is a mom to one active and playful little girl.
Sue Dumais Sue is a true pioneer in the field of personal training, yoga and mind-body therapy. Author of "A Strong Core for Life and Yoga for Fertility Handbook", Sue is passionate about inspiring and empowering women through fertility, pregnancy and beyond.
Curb Ivanic Curb Ivanic has been involved in the fitness industry for the past 10 years. He started Ultra Fitness in 2001 and has grown the business from strictly one-on-one training to include group training, seminars, courses, and product development. With a Masters degree in Exercise Science and the top international industry certifications, Curb is referred to as an expert source for fitness & health related articles.
Brian Martin Dr. Brian Martin BSc ND, is a diplomat in anti-aging with over 15 years of clinical practice, his philosophy is simple, “healthy people are less sick, happy people are less depressed and healthy and happy people move and change the world”.
Cathi Graham Cathi Graham, founder of Fresh Start, established the largest recorded weight loss in Canada in 1984. She's a best selling author and appeared on the Maury Povich Show, Northwest AM, Fox News. Cathi's success story has been published in First for Women, BC Women to Women, and the National Examiner. Cathi was named an honored member in the International Who's Who of Entrepreneurs (2007).
Kami Gray Kami Gray is a TV, film, and celebrity wardrobe stylist, a professional style and image consultant, and author of the bestselling book, The Denim Diet: Sixteen Simple Habits To Get You Into Your Dream Pair of Jeans.
Lana Lauder Lana Lauder is a holistic health researcher, educator and entrepreneur who is a passionate teacher and loves to support others in their personal discovery of the incredible healing power that lies within every human being. Having become a quadriplegic at the age of 15, and spending years in the traditional medical system, Lana is very familiar with the lack of answers and solutions therein to various personal health challenges.
Janice Manson Janice Manson, of MindClick Partners, is a Registered Nurse, Clinical Hypnotherapist and certified in HypnoFertility. Janice offers 1:1 hypnosis sessions, speaking and workshops. She specializes in hypnosis for weight issues, infertility, pain-free childbirth, menopause, PMS and male/female sexual issues.
Bev Maya Bev Maya B.Sc (Hon), D. Phyt., MNIMH, AHG worked in clinical research for over 10 years, followed by four years of intensive clinical training. She is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, and currently focuses on wholistic functional endocrinology at Maya Natural Health, while also practicing at the West Coast Women’s Centre for Midlife Health.
Michelle Morand Michelle Morand, has 17 years professional experience as a counsellor and educator as well as her own longstanding recovery from emotional eating. She is also the author of the groundbreaking book: Food is not the Problem: Deal With What Is!
Demonstration Stage|SHOW SCHEDULE At the demonstration stage take classes in various forms of yoga, pilates, meditation, Twist & Glide and pole walking. We encourage you to bring your own mat.
Mike Castilloux Mike Castilloux, Owner & Operator of Executive Lifestyles Personal Training Studio, has been involved in the fitness industry for over 30 years. Having been a professional body builder competitor and a personal trainer, Mike understands what it takes to run a professional fitness club- hard work, commitment and dedication.
Olga Kotelko Olga Kotelko has been an inspiration and a catalyst for self re-assessment and fellow competition for all ages. At age 70, she first hit the sports radar playing second base for the North Shore Slow Pitch team and has since amassed over 600 gold medals in Track and Field. In 2009 alone, Olga established 32 World Records! Olga is the first woman at 90 ever to compete in high jump, long jump and triple jump.
David MacKenzie David MacKenzie is the highly supportive husband of Michele Matthews, president of m4 ideas, Canada's Exclusive Distributor for Speedminton® speed badminton equipment. David shares Michele’s goal of getting kids and their families off the couch, off the sidelines, and into active fun.
As-sayed Nurjan Mirahmadi
and the Sufi Whirlers of SMC As-Sayed Nurjan MirAhmadi is a world-renown Sufi mystic and author whose wisdom and wonderful sense of humor masterfully conveys the sweetness of traditional spirituality. His teachings include meditative practices designed to open the heart and provide therapy to the body, mind, and soul
Jean Robillard Jean Robillard is Certified Pranic Healer and teacher and a Certified Holistic Coach. He has a Master Degree in Metaphysical Science. Jean has been practicing Pranic Healing for 10 years. He currently teaches Pranic Healing in British Columbia and Quebec. He has a successful private practice as a Pranic Healer and is the President of the Vancouver Pranic Healing Association.
Sheri Simson Sheri Simson - aka The Pole Lady - will share with us how she came to discover the secret of Pole Walking - how it helped her to lose 30 lbs - become fit & more than that - how it has completely changed her life and her purpose.
Workshops presented by leaders in their fields highlighting topics such as communication, personal growth and overall well-being.
Please keep updated by checking our website regularly!
Michael D'Alton Dublin born Bio-Energy Trainer Michael D'Alton has practiced and taught the art of Bio-Energy Healing for over 17 years. As a leader in the field of Energy Medicine, Michael has worked extensively in Ireland, the UK and now Canada and his accomplishments include being featured on the television shows ‘Remedy Me!’ (W Network) and ‘First Talk’ (Joy TV).
Barbara Fife Barbara speaks about healing from her experience and her heart. When her infant son was healed of a serious birth defect through prayer in Christian Science, Barbara knew that she wanted to dedicate her life to helping others find answers and healing. She has been a practitioner of this science for over 15 years and also teaches yearly classes on this subject.
Penny & Howard Ketola Penny has a Masters Degree in Education and has taught for the last thirty years.Howard is a Master in Yang Style Tai Chi and ran his own school in Mission for over 20 years. They retired to Vernon just last year.
Bob Kull Born in Ventura, California, Robert Kull has spent years wandering North and South America working as a scuba instructor, construction worker, community organic gardening teacher, firefighter, photographer, and professor. In 1985 he lost his lower right leg after a motorcycle crash in the Dominican Republic. He began undergraduate studies at age forty and now holds a PhD from the University of British Columbia.
Glynnis Osher Glynnis Osher, (BA, CAP) is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and for the past 18 years has immersed herself in Ayurvedic studies with a focus on aromatherapy and nutrition. Glynnis brings her wisdom and passion of the Ayurvedic spices and herbs to her teaching, with a focus on the Ayurvedic kitchen as a fragrant apothecary for vitality and good health.
Gilly Thomas Gilly Thomas is a teacher and lifelong learner. She develops presentations which incorporate experiential as well as intellectual aspect so that people "get it from the inside out". Her background is in education, psychology and nursing and is a certified Rubenfeld Synergist, which works with the dynamic interrelation of the body, mind, emotions and spirit.
Allli Warnyca Alli’s yoga path began in the jungles of Thailand, where she completed her intensive training in classical hatha yoga. Alli has since deepened her yogic knowledge by studying ashtanga, power flow, and anusara. Most recently she has been leading popular workshops on Yoga-Enhancing Your Golf Game, revealing the connection of Mind, Body and Spirit to the ever illusive and inspiring game.