Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

I have always envisioned creating a space where people could embark on their healing journeys together, supported by a strong sense of community. This vision led to the founding of Coast Flow Yoga, a place where connection, support, and personal growth are at the forefront. From a young age, I was captivated by the power of yoga to transform both body and mind. My journey began in my teens, and it soon became evident that yoga was more than just a physical practice for me—it was a path to deeper self-awareness and connection. My background in circus arts, where I trained rigorously and performed extensively, further fueled my passion for movement and creativity. This unique combination of yoga and circus arts instilled in me a profound appreciation for both the physical and theatrical aspects of practice. Community has always been at the heart of my aspirations. I believe in the power of bringing people together, of creating spaces where we can uplift and support one another. This belief was the driving force behind opening Coast Flow Yoga. I wanted to create a sanctuary where individuals could come to know their neighbors, find solace in shared experiences, and grow stronger—both physically and emotionally—through a supportive network. At Coast Flow Yoga, we curate classes that are designed to uplift, invite joy, and nourish the soul. Our offerings blend vigorous movement with opportunities for deep rest and rejuvenation. Whether it's through dynamic vinyasa flows, restorative sessions, or aerial yoga, our goal is to provide a holistic experience that caters to the diverse needs of our community. The fusion of my circus background with my passion for yoga allows us to create a unique, theatrical experience that sets Coast Flow Yoga apart. Our classes are not just about physical postures; they are about developing an inner knowing that we are all connected. Each session is an opportunity to explore this connection, to move with intention, and to rest deeply. Opening Coast Flow Yoga has been a journey of dedication and love. From humble beginnings, teaching up to 20 classes a week and managing every aspect of the studio, to expanding with a second location in Sechelt, our growth has been fueled by the incredible support of our community. Today, we proudly serve a diverse group of students with a wide range of classes, ensuring that yoga is accessible to everyone. Our passion for what we do is rooted in the belief that yoga can change lives.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

At Coast Flow Yoga, our commitment to community support is evident through our wide range of initiatives and the positive feedback we consistently receive. We strive to create a nurturing and inclusive environment, offering programs that cater to all ages and abilities. Community Initiatives and Programs: 1. Free and Donation-Based Classes: We host free and donation-based classes to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent individuals from accessing yoga. These classes include meditation, dharma evenings and kirtan. 2. Yoga for All Ages: From kids’ aerial yoga classes to chair yoga for seniors, we offer specialized programs that make yoga accessible to everyone. 3. Mental Health Support: Recognizing the importance of mental health, we offer workshops and sessions focused on mindfulness, meditation, and stress reduction. These sessions are designed to help individuals manage anxiety and improve overall well-being. 4. Community Events: We organize community events such as outdoor yoga on the pier, wellness retreats, and community kirtan with potlucks. Our monthly kirtans have raised over $2,000 for local causes. 5. Collaborations with Local Organizations: We partner with local businesses, and non-profits to extend the benefits of yoga to a broader audience. These collaborations have resulted in wellness programs and team building retreats being offered to local staff members. Community Support and Feedback: 1. Membership Growth: Since opening our second location in Sechelt, our membership has grown, demonstrating the community’s appreciation and demand for our services. We now serve over 1,000 students, with many expressing their gratitude for the positive impact Coast Flow Yoga has had on their lives. 2. Testimonials and Reviews: We receive numerous heartfelt testimonials and positive reviews from our students. Comments frequently mention how Coast Flow Yoga has become a sanctuary for them, helping them find balance, peace, and connection. 3.Volunteer Involvement: Many of our students volunteer their time to support our initiatives, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the community. Our volunteer program has grown by 60% in the past year, with volunteers contributing over 700 hours to various projects. At Coast Flow Yoga, our dedication to uplifting our community is unwavering. Through our diverse programs and initiatives, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

Coast Flow Yoga deserves to win the Business Impact Award because of our significant and positive influence on the Sunshine Coast community. Since our inception in 2021, we have become a cornerstone of wellness, mindfulness, and community support. Community Wellness and Mental Health: Coast Flow Yoga provides a sanctuary where individuals can escape the chaos of daily life, find peace, and reconnect with themselves. Our wide range of classes, including yoga, aerial yoga, Pilates, kids programming, and chair yoga, ensures that everyone, regardless of age or ability, has access to the benefits of yoga. This inclusivity has profoundly impacted the mental health and wellbeing of our community. Expansion and Accessibility: Starting in Gibsons and expanding to Sechelt in 2023, Coast Flow Yoga has made wellness accessible to more people across the Sunshine Coast. Our growth is a testament to the strong community support and the essential role we play in our community’s health. Diverse Offerings and Inclusivity: Our diverse class offerings cater to all ages and abilities. We provide specialized classes such as aerial yoga for kids and chair yoga for seniors, making yoga accessible to everyone. This diversity not only fosters inclusivity but also encourages a broader spectrum of the community to engage in regular physical activity and mindfulness practices. Community Engagement and Support: Coast Flow Yoga is deeply embedded in the local community. We collaborate with schools, local businesses, and organizations to promote wellness beyond our studio walls. Our community events, workshops, and charity drives further strengthen our community ties and support local causes. These efforts have fostered a strong sense of belonging and mutual support within the community. Sustainable and Healthy Workplace: We prioritize the wellbeing of our staff and students by creating a supportive, respectful, and environmentally sustainable environment. Our commitment to professional development, open communication, and sustainable practices ensures a healthy workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. Empowerment and Personal Growth: At Coast Flow Yoga, our mission is to empower our students and support their personal growth. Our instructors are dedicated to guiding and uplifting students, helping them to connect deeply within themselves and achieve their personal goals. This transformative approach has positively impacted the lives of many.

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

At Coast Flow Yoga, our culture is rooted in inclusivity, respect, and holistic wellness. We are committed to creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome and valued. Here’s how we foster this environment: Inclusive and Supportive Environment: 1. Open Communication:We maintain open lines of communication with our instructors, students, and community members. Regular meetings and feedback sessions ensure everyone’s voice is heard and valued. This open dialogue has fostered a culture of trust and transparency. 2. Diverse Offerings: Our wide range of classes, including yoga, aerial yoga, Pilates, and specialized programs for different age groups, ensures that there is something for everyone. This diversity in offerings reflects our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. 3. Professional Development: Our instructors regularly attend study groups. This not only improves the quality of our classes but also shows our commitment to the professional growth of our team. Leadership and Engagement: 1. Leading by Example: As the founder and owner, I actively participate in teaching classes, organizing events, and engaging with our community. This hands-on approach demonstrates my commitment and sets a positive example for our team. My background in circus performance and yoga has inspired a culture of dedication and creativity within our studio. 2. Sustainable Practices: We are committed to environmental sustainability. We encourage sustainable practices such as bringing reusable water bottles and mats, and using green cleaning products. 4. Empathy and Compassion: Our interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, and staff are guided by empathy and compassion. We take the time to understand their needs and concerns, ensuring that every interaction is positive and respectful. This approach has built strong, lasting relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. Creating a Welcoming Space: From the moment someone walks through our doors, they are greeted with warmth and kindness. We look to make everyone feel at home. The studio’s design also reflects this welcoming spirit, with comfortable, clean, and inviting spaces for practice and relaxation. Community Events: We regularly host community events such as wellness workshops, and social gatherings. These events help build a sense of community and belonging among our students.