
BACK STORY: MJ has been doing this for 30 years. Before opening SOUL FUEL, MJ was an actor and choreographer, founded 2 other businesses, and lead program development, teacher trainings, and retreats for companies across North America. Select certifications: Canadian Federation of Coaches, ACE, canfitpro, and AFAA (Group & PT), YTT 500, Pilates Instructor Academy Advanced Mat & Reformer, Pre/Post Natal (ACE), Menopause Fitness Specialist (FEO). MA in Drama Studies from University of Toronto, HBA in Theatre from UofT/Sheridan, Minors in Religion & Politics from UofT. Awards: 2023 Impact Fitness Instructor of the Year; 2018 & 2019 Canfitpro Fitness Professional of the Year Finalist; 2012 & 2014 Broadway World Toronto Best Choreography. MJ has appeared on various media outlets, educating and sharing the magic of movement.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "Empowering people through movement. I believe your pain can be converted to compassion by positively empowering yourself and others. This has largely been my life’s work through mentorship and collaboration in this business and in the arts. My son Samuel and husband Dan are the love that fuel my soul."
WHAT’S YOUR FUEL: "Moving bodies to music! I’ll gladly honky tonk to bad country, head bang to trashy 80s rock, twerk to hip-hop, twinkle my toes to Tchaikovsky… Dance is my easiest access to joy. I’m also fuelled by great story telling in all forms, be it book, film, play or someone telling me theirs."

BACK STORY: Lauren views exercise as a practice of care and community. It has never taken one consistent form throughout her life, but rather, has changed as she's grown. Her motto is, “Try everything at least once!”, and following it has provided her with a wealth of positive experiences. She is always looking for a new adventure, and that is what brought her to SOUL FUEL. She recently completed her Master in English at the University of Toronto, alongside her previous work experience in training, teaching, and coordination. All of this has taught her that success comes from collaboration and a welcoming environment; what she strive to bring to every new experience.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "I love stories, in all capacities. I find life between pages, on stages and movie screens, and even through conversations with people around me. In addition, I have found meditation and yoga to be essential. No matter where I am, I always set aside time to meditate and do a short flow, every day."
WHAT’S YOUR FUEL: "Interacting with others, whether it be a quick hello or a good chat, always makes my day! Being around others and doing something positive is what motivates me. And coffee, lots of coffee!"

BACK STORY: Chelle grew up dancing competitively and started the dance program at an energetic school in Brampton. She has a History and Drama degree from McMaster and her education degree from OISE. She gets to be on stage every day teaching school age kiddies how to love themselves, work together and find a passion in life through her dance program. Certifications: canfitpro (FIS & PT), YTT200 yoga instructor, Pilates Instructor Academy Advanced Mat & Reformer, and POUND instructor. She loves teaching the Dance AQ through York University to help teachers bring the love and creativity of dance to their programs.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "I am the mom of two incredible boys with the sweetest husband and all three of them fill my soul with laughter, love and adventure. Being active outside brings me joy and a makes me feel powerful. I live my life by my Mama's motto "Move your feet and your mind will follow".
WHAT’S YOUR FUEL: "Building a sense of community through movement is my passion for life. We are all superstars and I make it my mission to show kiddies and adults I work with that they were born to shine."
BACK STORY: Magz has been teaching fitness classes for over a decade, everything from HIIT, Spin, TRX, Boocamps, Power Lifting and now Yoga: movement is her jam. She has a BA in History, but Fitness is her true vocation and calling. Magz was one of Impact Magazine's 2024 Trainers of the Year and has presented for various conferences, including canfitpro. Certifications: Canfitpro (PT Specialist), TRX, trauma-informed power lifting, Yoga Alliance and more. Certified Plant-Based Nutritionist.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "Plant based food/fuel has led me into a new passion towards healthy eating and lifestyle. But travel, the ocean and nature have my soul - I love being under water and I love diving."
WHAT’S YOUR FUEL: "Exercise, movement, getting strong physically and mentally. This should be accessible to everyone and enjoyable for everyone! I’m fuelled by empowering people to feel the immense benefits of movement and strength that I’ve felt in the studio and in life."

BACK STORY: Steve has been teaching fitness classes full-time for 10 years. Certifications range from dance to kick boxing and from aqua to HIIT (and a whole bunch in between). He has had the pleasure of presenting at fitness conferences both in Canada and US. Steve also spent some years as a Master Trainer for an aqua program, was featured in instructional fitness DVDs and programs, and was a contestant on CBC's 'Canada's Ultimate Challenge'.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "Aside from fitness, the 2 things I love are Doritos and white wine. Classy and affordable and a little faux bougie. I also don’t mind creating some fierce lip sync content on my social media. Actually, creativity in any form excites me, from choreography to costume making with household items."
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: "I lead everything I do in my life with the principle that ‘we must be the change we wish to see in the world.’ I believe that as humans we are called to leave the world a little bit better than we found it."
BACK STORY: Khyla’s athletic background in Track & Field and Cross Country led her to understand the importance of being active and wanting to help others find the same joy and passion through movement. She is a graduate of the Humber College’s Fitness & Health Promotion program with her NASM Nutrition Coach & Personal Training Certification and almost 5 years of coaching experience. In addition to supporting personal training clients she also teaches a variety of classes, such as yoga, boxing, HIIT and strength & conditioning.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: “One of the most rewarding things is pushing your mind and body past what you thought you could handle. Because if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you! I love seeing new faces walk through the door on their first day, and continuing to show up for themselves week by week, proving they are dedicated and disciplined. What else is better than this?? (nothing)"
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: “What fuels me is always wanting more. Always wanting to be better, be stronger, find a new challenge. Stronger means being mentally focused, prepared and organized every day, showing up even when you don’t want to. Give your 100% for how you feel that day, not in comparison to others or other days behind you."

BACK STORY: Since 1999, Dione has been teaching group fitness classes in the GTA and internationally. She's known for her infectious and contagious fiery energy, while demonstrating excellence in teaching technique that comes from an investment in education, training, and years of experience. Awards include: 2021 IMPACT Magazine Canada’s Top Fitness Instructor Award, 2019 canfitpro New Presenter of the Year, 2017 canfitpro Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's been featured in Sway Magazine, Metro News, Breakfast Television, SNAP Magazine, canfitpro Magazine, CP24, Toronto Star, City TV, Rogers TV and more.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "I get it from MY MAMA! 😉 Seriously…what moves me each day is constantly remembering how finite our lives are. I don’t ever take a day, minute or second for granted. I’m unapologetic about living my life OUT LOUD and squeezing out every bit of juiciness I can get whether I’m reading a new book, discovering a new nook in the city via bike or on a run, wine tasting, salsa dancing or enjoying some natural herbs, I marinate and embrace each moment, while not sweating the small stuff."
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: "Meditation is the key to elevation, and I do it every day. Not only do I feed my mind and spirit, but I also invest in my temple by properly nourishing it and engaging in activities such as running, cycling and dancing my bootaaay off! And YES, I drink WINE and love it!"

BACK STORY: Kim's first love has always been dance. She attended Ryerson University for the dance program and graduated from Randolph College Triple Threat program. She worked as a professional dancer for about a decade and along the way got into acting, all which lead her to the fitness business. Certifications: canfitpro, prenatal/ postnatal and Diastasis recti and pelvic floor exercise recovery specialist.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "Empowering other's through movement. It fills my heart with joy when I see people come into their own through movement. I am grateful and honoured to be part of people's fitness journey's. Building communities where people feel respected and welcome. Helping people uncover and unleash their strength and love for their bodies. Since becoming a mother myself it has become my passion to help mama's have an empowered birth and recovery."
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: "Family. I love being with those I love! Laughing till I am crying. Enjoying all the precious little everyday moments especially with my daughter. Sun on my face. Any music with soul makes me want to dance. Spontaneous dance parties. Feeling sexy. Creating communities where everywhere is welcomed, invited and encouraged to thrive. Chocolate, definitely chocolate."

BACK STORY: Emily's first love was running - she lived, breathed and fuelled for running for the better part of 25 years; she did yoga, Pilates and strength training to improve her running. In her late 30s, she was sidelined by chronic pain and injury. In that time, and over the course of experiencing her body change in pregnancy, she came to Pilates in a much bigger way. Getting certified as a Pilates instructor, Personal Trainer, pre/post natal specialist, and Women's Fitness Specialist, helped her understand the true importance of cross training, injury prevention and recovery, and core strength for every day living.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "My happy place is in the middle of the lake at my cottage, on a paddle board or in my rowing skiff; breathing in the fresh air and detached from the rest of the world. I treasure the gift of mind-body connection; now in my 40s, I can finally say that I'm getting better at talking to and listening to my body. I trust my intuition and do my best to let it guide me."
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: "People! I was a school teacher and running coach for many years, I’m a mom of 3, and I love working with people. I live for my family and friends, and I love making connections - this is what fills my tank."

BACK STORY: Megan has always been drawn to spaces where people come together and feel like they belong. Growing up, she was active in sports like basketball and volleyball, and that early love of movement naturally evolved into a lifelong appreciation for staying active and grounded. Today, she’s a yoga enthusiast, enjoys being a dog walker for several dogs in the neighbourhood, and still values that connection between physical movement and mental clarity.
Over the years, she’s also gravitated toward community-driven environments—places where people are working on themselves in their own way and showing up for something bigger than just the task at hand. That’s what drew her to working in spaces like gyms and wellness environments: they’re not just about fitness, but about consistency, care, and connection.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: “I’m really energized by connection—whether that’s a quick friendly check-in, a longer conversation with someone I see regularly, or just being part of a space that feels welcoming and familiar. I love environments where people are showing up for themselves in different ways, and I get a lot out of being surrounded by that kind of energy. Outside of work, I feel most grounded when I’m doing yoga, going on long dog walks, or spending time in moments that help me reset and slow down a bit. I also really value time with friends and anything that feels simple, present, and real.”
WHAT’S YOUR FUEL: “I’m fuelled by movement, creativity, and good energy. Whether it’s getting outside for a walk, practicing yoga, or being active in some way, I feel my best when I’m not sitting still for too long. I also love trying new things, being around friends, and finding little ways to break up routine—anything that keeps life feeling alive, balanced, and a little bit spontaneous.”
BACK STORY: As a dancer, Adriana was always drawn to the preparation and training of the body for movement. At 16, she joined her first gym and has been strength training ever since. She's been a professional Hawaiian and Tahitian dancer for over 12 years and loves all types of Latin Dancing. She encountered some challenges along her journey which birthed a deeper fascination with heath compelling her to hours of research. Fascination turned into passion and she decided to get my personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Just call her a “Fitness Freak”!
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "I’m a creative soul and that gives me SOUL! I love dancing, acting, writing and connecting with people. Putting a smile on someone’s face really lights me up! If I can be a part of encouraging someone to feel more free, strong or empowered in their body or mind, that is such a gift to my heart. I believe that we can overcome insurmountable odds and I love being a cheerleader for others on their journey toward greater health & fitness."
WHATS YOUR FUEL: "If there’s a beat, you’ll see me dancing! Dancing (& music) is JOY to me and probably my greatest source of fuel although it comes in other forms too: Good quality, nourishing foods - Traveling & experiencing other places & cultures - Being by the ocean - Spending time with family/friends/nature - Meditation & being alive in the present moment."
BACK STORY: Exercise has always been a big part of Jyoti's life. From teaching herself the splits to swinging on the monkey bars at school, gymnastics kickstarted her love for fitness. She started off taking rec gymnastics classes, to then competing on the trampoline team at T. Dot Tumblers, and most recently, getting certified as a gymnastics coach. When she wasn't coaching, she was playing ultimate frisbee on school teams or skiing and snowboarding with her family. During Covid, she realized how much she loved being outdoors and spent a lot of time going on fall hikes with her puppy, Simba. She has always enjoyed conditioning and strength training, and discovering the online classes at Soul Fuel helped her stay active and strong.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "My passion for graphic design and social activism gives me soul. I always find ways to integrate diversity, representation and inclusivity into the work that I do as a student and young entrepreneur. I am currently running my own graphic design business JDDESIGNS, which I will continue to grow while attending Ryerson in the fall for Graphic Communications Management."
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: "Food and travel. Growing up as a vegetarian has inspired me to learn about nutrition, cook creative meals, and try new dishes. I am now a self-proclaimed foodie with a love for fresh, flavourful food with lots of spice! I recently travelled to Costa Rica where I hiked in the jungle, surfed on the beach, and drank lots of fresh coconuts. I love travelling to new countries and immersing myself in the culture, food, and language."
BACK STORY: Jen brings over 20 years of experience in fitness and holistic wellness. Her journey began as a yoga instructor with Club Med in Mexico, evolving into a career encompassing personal training and, most recently, Pilates, which she has passionately taught for 6 years.
What gives you SOUL: "I thrive on the critical thinking involved in helping others connect with their movement practices. I find teaching profoundly fulfilling, as it allows me to safely guide individuals towards a deeper awareness of their bodies' functionality."
What gives you FUEL: "Outside the fitness realm, I have a dynamic schedule as a flight attendant! I enjoy exploring my cultural heritage through the Filipino Martial Art, Taboada Balintawak. I’m excited to bring my diverse interests to our SOUL FUEL community."

BACKSTORY: Marla grew up active in sports, dancing, practicing yoga, and discovering weightlifting in high school. Although her education and career path led her into Marketing and Business, movement has always remained at the core of who she is. Becoming an instructor has been a longtime dream since those early high school days. A proud member of the Soul Fuel community for the past seven years, Marla consistently shows up to move, grow, and connect through fitness. She completed the Soul Fuel LEAP certification and earned her ACE (American Council on Exercise) Personal Trainer Certification, with the goal of helping others discover that movement and exercise can become a sustainable and empowering part of their everyday life.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: “Moving to music, building strength for my future, and showing girls and women that we don’t need to shrink ourselves. Get strong, get loud, and go after what’s yours.”
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL:“Time in nature, being with my family, and fully embracing my gardening era. I still love exploring the city, finding a great cup of coffee, and appreciating the little moments that make life feel joyful and connected.”
BACKSTORY: Amanda began her movement career over a decade ago as a Vinyasa Yoga Instructor. The physical, mental and spiritual benefits she experienced inspired her and changed her life so much, she decided to share it with others. The organic growth of her career has motivated her to constantly continue her education to empower, strengthen and inspire others as well as herself. She has been in the hair industry for over 20 years, as a salon owner, industry educator, cosmetology school teacher and curriculum creator, but guiding movement was something she craved. Certifications: Canfitpro (PT Specialist), Mat Pilates, Vinyasa Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Perinatal Fitness and Yoga Specialist, Reiki Level II.
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "Being in nature, spending time with family and friends, quiet time and reading. Finding inspiration in as many things as possible and being of a small part of helping people feel strong and beautiful from the inside out."
WHAT’S YOUR FUEL: "Movement is my medicine. It gets me out of my head, creates a sense of community, empowers and strengthens me and gives me a space to be free. Finding the things that bring me to life and connect me to myself."
BACKSTORY: Melanie spent her early years growing up in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and participating in all things dance and musical related. Her passion for the stage took her to Sheridan College and lead her to a 20-year career in Toronto, the Charlottetown Festival in PEI, Germany, and seven seasons at the Shaw Festival. Shortly after giving birth to her second child, she discovered the world of Pilates and has been completely immersed in it ever since. She is Comprehensively Certified through Body Harmonics in Toronto and is one of the OG Mat Pilates instructors here at Soul Fuel!
WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: “Definitely WATER. I am pretty sure I am a mermaid. The human body. It is such a complex and fascinating system that will never cease to amaze me. So much so that I have just gone back to school to become an osteopath through the CAO in Hamilton. Travel. Can't get enough. Ever. Books. Love them. All genres. All the time. My kids. The shaggers are my life. My hubby. My animals."
WHAT'S YOUR FUEL: “Dancing, Pilates, cycling and hiking are my movement fuel but I also love cooking, hosting and travelling. Reading, my cat, consuming art and LAUGHTER!!!!!!!"

WHAT GIVES YOU SOUL: "Connecting with others is what gives me soul. I love hearing people's stories, and sharing a good laugh together."
WHAT GIVES YOU FUEL: "Moving my body with pilates, weight lifting, or walking all give me fuel. Non-movement related things: reading a good book, good music, and hanging with my kids and cats."


