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

CV Wellness started in July 2014, with just myself Kirsten Werner RMT. Over the years my team has expanded and so has the clinic. In 2021 I was in a motor vehicle accident that left me unable to work for the past two years. This didn’t stop me. I pivoted in my practice to offer much needed massage services for breast cancer clients, elective breast surgeries and gender affirming surgeries. This was lighter on my body and allowed me to return to work. One of my colleagues took the training as well. We are now the only clinic north of Nanaimo with this training. We offer baby massage classes, out door yoga classes and more. We are a community minded clinic offering heart centred care.

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.

This summer we offered outdoor yoga and donations went to the pride society. You will also find us at the Pride Event this year sharing our smiles and services for post gender affirming surgery massage.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

I made lemons into lemonade. I really wasn’t sure that I could return to work after MVA. But i pivoted and found creative ways to continue

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 Cumberland Village Wellness, we cultivate a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome, including the LGBTQ+ community. Our culture prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring respect and value for all clients, staff, and visitors. We foster well-being through flexible work hours, wellness resources, and promoting self-care. Sustainability is integral to our operations, from using eco-friendly products to minimizing waste and energy use. In our interactions, we lead with empathy and respect. We offer personalized care to clients, maintain transparent and fair relationships with vendors and contractors, and support staff through collaborative leadership and professional development. We are proud to offer specialized services such as breast, chest, and oncology massage, catering to the unique needs of our clients. Additionally, we actively engage with our community through wellness initiatives and educational workshops, extending our commitment to health and well-being beyond our immediate environment. This holistic approach ensures that Cumberland Village Wellness remains a welcoming and supportive space for everyone

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

We believe Cumberland Village Wellness deserves the Premier’s People’s Choice Award because of our unwavering commitment to fostering a holistic, inclusive, and sustainable health and wellness environment. Our dedication to inclusivity ensures that every client, including those from the LGBTQ+ community, feels respected and valued. We offer specialized services, such as breast, chest, and oncology massage, demonstrating our commitment to addressing diverse health needs. Our sustainable practices and eco-friendly operations reflect our responsibility towards the environment. We support our staff with flexible work hours, wellness resources, and professional development, ensuring a thriving workplace culture. Moreover, our active engagement with the community through wellness initiatives and educational workshops highlights our broader commitment to promoting health and well-being. Cumberland Village Wellness stands out for its comprehensive approach to creating a supportive, respectful, and health-focused space for everyone.