Adult Wellness 2025
Project 11’s Adult Wellness Development Day was conceived with the intention of providing adults interested in supporting the mental wellness of children with the opportunity to explore and develop their confidence while discussing topics related to Project 11’s mental health curriculum to more aptly support the children they care for.
This event will provide expert speakers, interactive workshops, and valuable resources designed to support personal well-being and foster a positive, resilient environment. For interested teachers already implementing Project 11, it offers a great opportunity to deepen knowledge about Project 11 related themes, enhance their own strategies, and build their confidence in supporting students’ mental health.
Don’t miss this restorative opportunity – Join us on April 11th, 2025, for a rich and rewarding time at Camp Manitou, where you’ll leave feeling more balanced, with a deeper understanding of wellness, and better equipped to support yourself and others in your everyday life.
Your ticket will include:
- A day hosted by the Project 11 team
- The chance to interact with our inspiring speakers
- An opportunity for personal growth through tailored workshops and meaningful connection
- Nourishing gourmet food + beverages throughout the day
- A Self-Care Gift Package
- A beautiful indoor and outdoor experience at Camp Manitou
Learn more about some of the amazing speakers who will be joining us
at this year’s Adult Wellness Development Day.
Ace Burpee
has worked in radio for over a decade and is well known for the hundreds of charitable events and causes that he donates his time to every year.
Currently the host of his own show on 103.1 Virgin Radio in Winnipeg, Ace has been a long-time advocate and strong supporter for those living with mental illness.
Ace is also a major part of Project 11, has hosted Project 11’s Mental Wellness Summit and is featured in Project 11 videos. Listen to Ace’s song “It’ll be ok” in collaboration with Project 11 students: https://youtu.be/sIDG4b2Wdk4
AJ Zeglen
a renowned fitness professional, having worked with Hockey Canada, the Winnipeg Jets, and various hockey and football players across different leagues.
With over a decade of expertise, he employs unique training techniques to benefit professional athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and community members alike.
Beyond the physical benefits, AJ believes in the profound impact of exercise on mental health, emphasizing its power to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote overall well-being, making him an advocate for mental wellness through physical fitness.
Amy Rasmussen-Waluk
is committed to helping people experience and maintain the good life. As an experienced trauma-informed therapist and post-secondary educator, she invites healing and sustainable wellness through the spirit of curiosity, compassion and vitality.
Amy is part of the Project 11 team and brings a therapeutic lens to enhance mental health curricula produced by the organization.
Angela Lavallee
is an Indigenous woman, heart-led helper, independent mother, grandmother, Sundancer, university graduate and founder of her sole propriety Wasakamon Wellness Connections.
She’s a social worker and a trauma informed facilitator specializing in conflict resolution, grief and loss and trauma informed heart care where she incorporates Indigenous ways of knowing and healing. All heart-led work, volunteer and education decisions made by Angela are led by her passion to help others.
Ann Nzeruem
is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience and the visionary Founder and CEO of Mara Home and Health Services.
Inspired by the community’s need for accessible and affordable care, Ann established the organization to provide exceptional, personalized home and health services which embodies the values of trust, respect, and integrity. Her passion for improving lives and empowering communities drives her commitment to delivering high-quality care and fostering inclusiveness in the healthcare sector.
Brad Woods
has told stories at festivals, theatres, conferences, prisons, churches and pubs all over North America and the UK. He tells traditional tales, literary classics and personal stories.
His stories have been featured in a variety of broadcasts and publications including CBC Radio 1, the Globe and Mail and Canadian Running Magazine. Brad has told to all ages and in every type of venue imaginable. He is the recipient of the Alice Kane Award for Storytelling and used it to travel to Lesotho (Southern Africa) to tell, trade and collect stories on behalf of Bracelet of Hope.
Chinwe Asagwara
is a trusted Registered Dietitian, Women’s Health Coach and recurring wellness expert for several media platforms.
She teaches how to improve overall health through a focus of healthy relationship with food and she believes that every woman deserves an opportunity to explore their physical abilities in the weight room, and be supported in her journey to good health in a way that feels encouraging, positive and fits their personal lifestyle.
Dr. Dara Morden
Dr. Morden, ND graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a double major in Biochemistry and Biology. She then studied at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, obtaining her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) designation. This degree helped to create a balanced synergy between the practices of modern medicine and traditional natural medicine, both of which hold importance in her more extensive view of healing. She maintains an active practice at Via Natural Medicine.
Dr. Dara Morden, ND is passionate about supporting patients to dig deeper and ask more profound questions – at whatever stage they may be – to help them best achieve their capacity for optimal health.
Dr. Jeff Leiter
is the Executive Director of Pan Am Clinic Foundation, and the President/CEO of Pan Am Rehabilitation Services. He holds a Master of Science in Sport Biomechanics and obtained his PhD from the Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science at the University of Manitoba.
Jeff is also a sports-science consultant for various NHL teams and hockey equipment companies. His research expertise focuses on the areas of athlete development and human performance, orthopedic sports medicine, concussion, and education. He has published over 110 peer-reviewed manuscripts in these areas.
Jessica Keus
is the leader at Eleven Wealth at Wellington-Altus Private Wealth, which is a female-led investment practice founded with the goal of reviving the personal, client-centric approach to wealth management.
Their team specializes in providing custom-tailored advice to professionals, business owners, and individuals undergoing major life transitions.
They believe that effective wealth management involves more than just investment strategy, it requires building a strong foundation of trust and understanding though consistent communication and a warm, supportive environment.
At Eleven Wealth, their focus is on helping their clients celebrate their achievements and build a lasting legacy.
Dr. Jitender Sareen
is Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Manitoba, Provincial Specialty Lead for Mental Health and Addictions, Shared Health.
With over 400 peer-reviewed publications in the areas of traumatic stress, anxiety disorders, indigenous suicide prevention, and military and veterans’ mental health, Dr. Sareen’s work has had national and provincial impact on public policy.
Keith Macpherson
As an author, speaker, and certified professional co-active coach through CTI (The Co-Active Training Institute), a certified Leadership Circle facilitator and a Bachelor of Education degree, Keith Macpherson is a global leader in improving overall mental health and wellness.
In his book, Making Sense of Mindfulness, Keith introduces his five step framework to assist the masses in comprehending the buzz word “mindfulness” and how to practically integrate this powerful practice into day to day life.
Dr. Lindsay Ross-Stewart
is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) and registered mentor with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology and a Professional Member of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association. Dr. Ross-Stewart worked in NCAA Division I sports from 2009-2021, with the last eight as the Director of Mental Performance for the SIUE Cougars in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Dr. Ross-Stewart is an Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Health at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Dr. Ross-Stewart obtained her PhD in Psychology and her M.S in Kinesiology from the University of North Dakota, and her B.A. in Psychology from Mount Allison University. Dr. Ross-Stewart has presented over 50 presentations at international conferences and has had her research published in several journals.
Dr. Meaghen Johnston
is the lead clinician and founder of Intentional Futures Counselling and Consulting, has a PhD in Social Work and is a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator.
Led by her core values of contribution and connection Meaghen offers a unique approach to life that balances the need to process emotions alongside actionable strategies to skillfully navigate challenging situations.
Meaghen integrates her knowledge as a researcher with her experience as a therapist to provide scripts and strategies for building an intentional pathway towards your best future self.
Dr. Megan Hebert
a registered psychologist in Manitoba and Alberta, brings over 10 years of specialized expertise in providing comprehensive mental health services to individuals of all ages, encompassing assessment, diagnostics, intervention, consultation, workshops, research, and program development and evaluation. Her vast experience spans various settings, including schools, social services, private practice, and community and university mental health clinics. Currently, Megan holds the role of Clinical Director at KidThink.
Dr. Hebert holds memberships with organizations like the College of Alberta Psychologists, the Psychological Association of Manitoba, the Canadian Psychological Association, and the American Psychological Association. Additionally, she actively contributes to the field by serving on the Manitoba Psychological Society Board of Directors.
Reid Davies
is a lifelong resident and big fan of Winnipeg.
Reid is a yoga instructor at Modo Yoga Winnipeg and teaches mindful movement for Project 11.
He also goes by DjDad and plays events around the city and province.
Reid is excited to participate in the first Adult Wellness retreat!
Sara Orlesky
is a renowned sports broadcaster and storyteller, currently serving as a senior host and producer for the Winnipeg Jets. She was a longtime CFL on TSN reporter and has covered major sporting events throughout her career.
Passionate about mental wellness, Sara has been actively involved with Project 11, contributing to videos and events that promote mental health awareness. Her dedication to storytelling and advocacy makes her a powerful voice in both sports media and wellness initiatives.
More speakers to be announced!
Ace Burpee
has worked in radio for over a decade and is well known for the hundreds of charitable events and causes that he donates his time to every year.
Currently the host of his own show on 103.1 Virgin Radio in Winnipeg, Ace has been a long-time advocate and strong supporter for those living with mental illness.
Ace is also a major part of Project 11, has hosted Project 11’s Mental Wellness Summit and is featured in Project 11 videos. Listen to Ace’s song “It’ll be ok” in collaboration with Project 11 students: https://youtu.be/sIDG4b2Wdk4
AJ Zeglen
a renowned fitness professional, having worked with Hockey Canada, the Winnipeg Jets, and various hockey and football players across different leagues.
With over a decade of expertise, he employs unique training techniques to benefit professional athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and community members alike.
Beyond the physical benefits, AJ believes in the profound impact of exercise on mental health, emphasizing its power to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote overall well-being, making him an advocate for mental wellness through physical fitness.
Amy Rasmussen-Waluk
is committed to helping people experience and maintain the good life. As an experienced trauma-informed therapist and post-secondary educator, she invites healing and sustainable wellness through the spirit of curiosity, compassion and vitality.
Amy is part of the Project 11 team and brings a therapeutic lens to enhance mental health curricula produced by the organization.
Blair Kaplan Venables
is the Founder and CEO of The Global Resilience Project, a social enterprise and community that shares stories of resilience.
When she’s not immersed in the world of social media and running Blair Kaplan Communications, her public relations company of 15 years, she hosts the Radical Resilience podcast and is an international bestselling author.
Chalnessa Eames
a former world-renowned ballet soloist, discovered the importance of mental and physical conditioning during her illustrious career.
Drawing from her experiences, she founded The Fitual studio in Winnipeg, offering transformative fitness classes and the city’s first Lagree Fitness Method, emphasizing the integration of mental wellness and physical health for a balanced and injury-free lifestyle.
Chinwe Asagwara
is a trusted Registered Dietitian, Women’s Health Coach and recurring wellness expert for several media platforms.
She teaches how to improve overall health through a focus of healthy relationship with food and she believes that every woman deserves an opportunity to explore their physical abilities in the weight room, and be supported in her journey to good health in a way that feels encouraging, positive and fits their personal lifestyle.
Dr. Dara Morden
Dr. Morden, ND graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a double major in Biochemistry and Biology. She then studied at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, obtaining her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) designation. This degree helped to create a balanced synergy between the practices of modern medicine and traditional natural medicine, both of which hold importance in her more extensive view of healing. She maintains an active practice at Via Natural Medicine.
Dr. Dara Morden, ND is passionate about supporting patients to dig deeper and ask more profound questions – at whatever stage they may be – to help them best achieve their capacity for optimal health.
Don Amero
is a JUNO-nominated singer-songwriter and performer celebrated for his captivating storytelling. Amero has co-hosted Project 11’s Check-In podcast with Suzi Friesen and now hosts his own podcast called ‘Through The Fire’.
He recently authored his first children’s book called “These Roots Of Love”. As a Cree and Métis community member, he advocates for Indigenous communities and uses his platform to mentor youth.
Jessica Keus
is the leader at Eleven Wealth at Wellington-Altus Private Wealth, which is a female-led investment practice founded with the goal of reviving the personal, client-centric approach to wealth management.
Their team specializes in providing custom-tailored advice to professionals, business owners, and individuals undergoing major life transitions.
They believe that effective wealth management involves more than just investment strategy, it requires building a strong foundation of trust and understanding though consistent communication and a warm, supportive environment.
At Eleven Wealth, their focus is on helping their clients celebrate their achievements and build a lasting legacy.
Dr. Jitender Sareen
is Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Manitoba, Provincial Specialty Lead for Mental Health and Addictions, Shared Health.
With over 400 peer-reviewed publications in the areas of traumatic stress, anxiety disorders, indigenous suicide prevention, and military and veterans’ mental health, Dr. Sareen’s work has had national and provincial impact on public policy.
Jill Kantor
Founder of Hygge Canada and Co-Founder of Hygge in a Box, is a wellness advocate with a transformative life journey marked by resilience and mindfulness. Her experiences, including overcoming an eating disorder and the loss of her second daughter, inspired her commitment to mental health.
Through Hygge Canada and her Hygge in a Box venture, Jill shares the principles of hygge, promoting comfort and mindfulness. As a Director of Learning and Development with 20 years of experience, Jill also leads workplace wellness programs. Jill explores hygge’s role in grief, emphasizing community and support. Jill also provides insights into creating hygge-inspired sanctuaries for grief, emphasizing the importance of nurturing environments for reflection and peace.
Keith Macpherson
As an author, speaker, and certified professional co-active coach through CTI (The Co-Active Training Institute), a certified Leadership Circle facilitator and a Bachelor of Education degree, Keith Macpherson is a global leader in improving overall mental health and wellness.
In his book, Making Sense of Mindfulness, Keith introduces his five step framework to assist the masses in comprehending the buzz word “mindfulness” and how to practically integrate this powerful practice into day to day life.
Dr. Lindsay Ross-Stewart
is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) and registered mentor with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology and a Professional Member of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association. Dr. Ross-Stewart worked in NCAA Division I sports from 2009-2021, with the last eight as the Director of Mental Performance for the SIUE Cougars in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Dr. Ross-Stewart is an Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Health at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Dr. Ross-Stewart obtained her PhD in Psychology and her M.S in Kinesiology from the University of North Dakota, and her B.A. in Psychology from Mount Allison University. Dr. Ross-Stewart has presented over 50 presentations at international conferences and has had her research published in several journals.
Dr. Meaghen Johnston
is the lead clinician and founder of Intentional Futures Counselling and Consulting, has a PhD in Social Work and is a Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator.
Led by her core values of contribution and connection Meaghen offers a unique approach to life that balances the need to process emotions alongside actionable strategies to skillfully navigate challenging situations.
Meaghen integrates her knowledge as a researcher with her experience as a therapist to provide scripts and strategies for building an intentional pathway towards your best future self.
Dr. Megan Hebert
a registered psychologist in Manitoba and Alberta, brings over 10 years of specialized expertise in providing comprehensive mental health services to individuals of all ages, encompassing assessment, diagnostics, intervention, consultation, workshops, research, and program development and evaluation. Her vast experience spans various settings, including schools, social services, private practice, and community and university mental health clinics. Currently, Megan holds the role of Clinical Director at KidThink.
Dr. Hebert holds memberships with organizations like the College of Alberta Psychologists, the Psychological Association of Manitoba, the Canadian Psychological Association, and the American Psychological Association. Additionally, she actively contributes to the field by serving on the Manitoba Psychological Society Board of Directors.
Reid Davies
is a lifelong resident and big fan of Winnipeg.
Reid is a yoga instructor at Modo Yoga Winnipeg and teaches mindful movement for Project 11.
He also goes by DjDad and plays events around the city and province.
Reid is excited to participate in the first Adult Wellness retreat!
Sara Orlesky
is a renowned sports broadcaster and storyteller, currently serving as a senior host and producer for the Winnipeg Jets. She was a longtime CFL on TSN reporter and has covered major sporting events throughout her career.
Passionate about mental wellness, Sara has been actively involved with Project 11, contributing to videos and events that promote mental health awareness. Her dedication to storytelling and advocacy makes her a powerful voice in both sports media and wellness initiatives.
Sara Verwymeren
is the compassionate owner of Three Pines Organizing, a women-led company that brings families relief through organization.
With a background in Psychology and her own journey with cancer and mental health challenges, Sara brings empathy and understanding to the process of organizing, aiming to create unique and long-lasting systems that promote relief, joy, and freedom in her clients’ homes.
Dr. Shay-Lee Bolton
is a distinguished expert in psychiatric epidemiology, known for her dedication to studying the link between mental health, trauma, and suicidal behavior in at-risk populations.
As an Assistant Professor at the University of Manitoba, she has made significant contributions through her extensive publication record and innovative program evaluations, including the acclaimed virtual cognitive-behavior therapy classes.
Her work as Co-Lead of the CBTm Hub has the potential to revolutionize mental health services and positively impact the well-being of individuals in Manitoba and beyond.
Stephen Sutherland
is an experienced Mental Health Clinician, therapist, and educator with a passion for fostering positive change.
With a focus on mental wellness and personal transformation, he shares his authentic and vulnerable journey with mental illness.
Through engaging storytelling and person-centered therapy, Stephen advocates for mental health and well-being, valuing connections and integrity above all else.
Retreat Sponsors
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