More About Our Hosts
Jill Hewlett
Toronto East End
Brain Fitness Expert, Wellness Authority, Author and Speaker, Jill Hewlett, is licensed in the field of Educational Kinesiology and a Brain Gym® consultant of two decades.
A decade and a half ago, Jill began a Women’s Wellness Circle in York Region that has grown into multiple locations that she mentors across Ontario and beyond.
Author of Common Sense, Uncommonly Practiced, and Uncommon Sense, Put Into Practise, Jill has a passion for making life change and improvements attainable for all who want it.
By sharing user-friendly tools that can be implemented in just minutes to reduce stress and optimize performance, participants and audiences feel an immediate difference.
Click to read Jill’s testimonial
“A decade and a half of hosting Women’s Wellness Circles on a monthly basis has shown me that when women gather with the goal of learning, sharing and connecting, wonderful and seemingly magical stuff happens… and we are all better for it.
Many years later, I continue to personally benefit from each gathering; and in such a fast paced world, as a single mom and entrepreneur; perhaps more so than ever before.
Women constantly tell me how their lives have been enriched, and even changed thanks to these monthly gatherings. As well, ripples of positive energy touch the lives of our loved ones and communities as we take how we’ve grown and what we’ve learned back into our lives.”
Karen Armstrong
Newmarket/EG
As a Reiki Master, Biophoton Light Therapist and Enneagram coach, I have a valuable set of resources to support people on their journey to better understanding themselves.
My clients come to me when something in their life isn’t working. Whether that is expressed through a relationship, overwhelm with the responsibilities in their life or a physical symptom that no one seems to be able to figure out – the answers reside within the individual. I offer a safe place to explore, question and heal so that a sense of well-being and empowerment can return.
I have learned that the life we are experiencing is a direct reflection of our beliefs, thoughts and the choices we make every day.
Click to read Karen’s testimonial
“Circle brings together many core loves of mine; sharing in community, learning new things and hearing stories of how our presenters found their path.
I began by hosting the outdoor space for summer circle in York Region, and that was an easy transition to co-hosting, and then hosting my own Circle. 12 years have rolled along, and this amazing experience continues to feed me and the hundreds of women who have attended over the years. To see the friendships that have formed and the growth of the women who attend is truly moving.
My life is richer for the commitment I have made to Circle and for the beautiful friendships gained. Jill, I am forever grateful for the seed you planted and for the opportunity to grow and nurture that seed with you.”
Terri Klein
Vaughan
Terri Klein is an author, a speaker, a wellness coach, and a “habit-change expert.” She helps people to thrive by teaching them how to quiet their overthinking minds and build emotional muscle. She does this by helping them to rewrite their limiting stories so they access the best parts of themselves and live their best life.
Terri coaches and leads her How to Quiet the Overthinking Mind workshops using her cutting-edge, science based curriculum to help her clients move out of struggle and into greater joy—out of their overthinking mind and into an accepting, peaceful place. She helps you to rewire your brain and manage your mind. A trained mind can quiet an overthinking mind!
Click to read Terri’s testimonial
“My journey as host of Vaughan Women’s Wellness Circle began in November of 2016. Reflecting on this chapter brings a smile to my face. It has been so lovely experiencing the essence of circle, which is all about connection, empowerment, personal growth, and healing. The best part is the phenomenal women and the dynamic speakers. Each month I look forward to learning about an exciting new topic and experiencing something unique. Circle creates a special bond between women—an intimate connection that feels both safe and empowering. It builds self as well as community—both ‘me’ and ‘us’.”
A circle – an eternal bond.
A way to feel safe; to connect, to belong.
Helen Bantis
Markham
Helen has a thirst for knowledge, and a passion for all things health and wellness. She has a keen interest in empowering women and children to live in radiant health and well-being—by nourishing themselves, mind, body and soul. She is currently studying to become a Registered Holistic Nutritionist.
A regular attendee of the well-loved Markham-Stouffville Women’s Wellness Circle, which has filled Helen’s cup many times over, she was drawn to becoming Circle host when the opportunity presented itself. It is Helen’s deep desire to continue to create a warm and welcoming space, and a magical experience for women. One where they feel free to laugh, learn, grow, be inspired, uplifted and empowered, while connecting with their authentic self, and with like-minded and heart-centred women.
Click to read Helen’s testimonial
“I have been attending the Markham-Stouffville Women’s Wellness Circle, since its inception in 2016. The speaker and many of the attendees may have changed from month-to-month, but I could always count on the warm, inviting, and inclusive energy that would greet me when I walked through the door, and said, “I’m in.”
As a woman on the path of personal and spiritual development, Circle nourishes my mind, feeds my spirit, and fills my cup. That is why I was drawn to becoming a Circle host, when the opportunity presented itself. I wanted to ensure that women in our community (myself included) continued to have a safe place where they could learn, heal, grow, and connect with like-minded and heart-centred women.
It is my honour to host the Markham Women’s Wellness Circle, and to create and hold a welcoming and wonderful space for women to gather in community.”
Anne Caissie
Guelph
Anne is the founder of SamadhiLife.ca, a jumping off point for Women to come out of hiding and live their beautiful and incredible lives! As a Life Metamorphosis Coach, Anne gently and thoughtfully guides her Clients through the “stuff & things” of life to reclaim and live their best lives NOW! Using coaching, yoga, meditation, and breath work along with a variety wellness workshops, Anne believes that a full-rounded approach to wellness is imperative to a women’s wellbeing.
It’s time to stop hiding! It’s time to stop postponing those dreams! It’s time to stop thinking you’re not good enough! Anne will be your main cheerleader and guide as you work with her to uncage your amazing self!
Click to read Anne’s testimonial
“Finding Women’s Wellness Circles has finished the puzzle for me! These circles are the missing piece. Gathering in circle to share our experience and now being able to hold space for other women, is such a beautiful way for me to give back.
Sharing this opportunity to gather and learn from other strong and brave women is needed so much in today’s climate; how wonderful that we can continue practicing the wisdom that our mothers/sisters/aunts/daughters have to offer by gathering together to support and learn from one another. I am honoured to hold this space for women in my community.”
Amanda Perrone
Oshawa
Amanda Perrone is a Mentor, Healer, and Moon Mother and has been using the magic of the moon and ceremony for the last four years to create a life by design. She is incredibly passionate about creating community and helping others master the art of flowing with moon cycles and their own natural rhythm.
Click to read Amanda’s testimonial
“Circle has been the anchor that consistently reminds me I am part of something bigger. I feel like the Oshawa Circle has taken on a life of its own, made up of all the beautiful energy of the women who attend.
Each month it breathes life back into me and my community. It’s a consistent gift.
My guests have shared with me that it has changed their lives, they have made heart connections with the women in their communities, and they have come to also see themselves as part of something bigger. They always leave in a high vibration, clear and uplifted… feeling supported and safe.”
Debbie Armstrong
Barrie/Innisfil
“As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist it is clear to me the body, mind and spirit are interconnected. When I met Jill, I quickly realized that the Women’s Wellness Circle was my purpose. Time spent in Circle is precious to me. We are social beings; being together is essential to our mental health and our gifted presenters enlighten us on how to best support growth and change.
I have seen such a difference in women who attend Circle; they connect with happiness and joy. My life has changed immensely having this time together in Circle with women who enter as strangers and leave as sisters. Thank you Jill, for seeing a need to provide wellness education, love and community support in the form of Circle.”
Click to read Debbie’s testimonial
“I feel overjoyed having the opportunity to hold space for such an amazing group of women. It’s a beautiful time of inclusiveness for all who come, filled with education, friendships and a community of souls eager to celebrate and support our heartfelt moments together. The power in numbers is clearly felt! It’s exhilarating, and we take that feeling with us until we meet again!”
Lauren Helmkay
Georgina
Lauren Helmkay is a Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach and founder of the Dodging Diabetes Blueprint program designed to help women take control of their health.
Having more than 25 years leading teams and developing individuals in the corporate sector, Lauren is an artist and creative at heart. She loves to work with women as a Certified Culinary Nutrition Expert and is also passionate about sharing the joy of Nia, a non-impact holistic dance based practice addressing body, mind and soul.
Dedicated to helping others to live their lives with intention, Lauren’s favourite quote is “Your FUTURE is created by what you do TODAY, not TOMORROW.”
Click to read Lauren’s testimonial
“For me, Circle is all about being present. A time to connect – with your deepest truest self, with other amazing women, and with life giving universal energy.
Truly giving yourself the gift of time once a month to immerse yourself – in the joy of the camaraderie of other women, the sharing of knowledge and wisdom, and the opportunity to just sit with your thoughts too.
Energizing and uplifting, Women’s Wellness Circles create a safe space for each of us to look within and ensure we’re in alignment with our heart’s desires!”
Jenn Bruder
Hampton NB
Jennifer discovered the benefits of yoga over 20 years ago, when she first unrolled her yoga mat, and she took the first steps towards a path of self-acceptance. She has cultivated her practice in yoga and meditation and found such joy in the practice that she felt called to share it with others through teaching.
Jennifer is a Registered Yoga teacher with the Canadian Yoga Alliance. She received her CYA certification in 2013 at Georgian College, and is working towards her Ayurveda Therapist Certification.
Inspired by many wellness teachers along her journey – many of them women in the fields of recreation leadership, Vipassana meditation, Mindful Based Stress Reduction (MSBR), Chakra Yoga, and most recently Ayurveda.
She owned and operated a home studio Ancient Oak Yoga- which has been transplanted during the pandemic as Jennifer moved from Ontario to Hampton, New Brunswick. She is eager to share her curiosity for wellness and is excited to be creating a Women’s Wellness Circle in her new community.
Click to read Jenn’s testimonial
“Women’s Wellness Circles has been such a positive experience. I’ve had the opportunity to connect and learn from other hosts and feel a heartfelt welcome to this amazing community of women. Jill is professional, thoughtful, and shared her many years of experience during our host training session. The training was inspiring, detailed, and also allowed time to reflect.
When we come together and support, share and learn we are actively engaging in our own personal growth. It is clear to me the value of gathering in Circle while being surrounded by a mutual giving and receiving of support. I’m very pleased to be a part of the Women’s Wellness Circle hosts and so excited to share Circle with my community.”
Natasha Villeneuve
Richmond – Ottawa West
Natasha Villeneuve, Wellness Advisor is dedicated to educating, guiding and empowering people toward optimal health and well-being. With twenty years in the health and wellness industry, Natasha has gained a positive reputation within her community as a nutritional consultant, educator, workshop host and facilitator. She brings energy, warmth, creativity and wisdom to her offerings. As a certified NIA fitness dance instructor, which blends many movement art forms, Natasha is excited to be offering NIA classes as well as monthly Women’s Circles in Richmond, on the west side of Ottawa.
Click to read Natasha’s testimonial
“As women we all naturally crave and desire intimacy, acceptance and deep connection. I am excited and passionate about hosting a Women’s Wellness Circle because it fosters those qualities in a safe, welcoming environment. Circle is a sacred time and space once a month for women to gather, connect, share, learn, inspire and uplift ourselves and each other.”
Wanda Beauparlant
Clarington
Wanda Beauparlant, DSW (Developmental Service Worker), is an intuitive guide and continues her Reiki training. She celebrates Moon Phases and experiences oneness with Nature. Wanda is thrilled to join together outdoors to feel the breath of life infuse our gatherings as we build a sense community and fulfillment in Circle.
Click to read Wanda’s testimonial
“I attended a workshop in Toronto where I first met Jill and I knew it was meant to be. Months later after connecting with her again, I knew that hosting a WWC was meant for me. I am always delighted to share with like-minded women. In 2018 I began opening space at my home retreat space for gatherings. I felt it was the time to share, give back and receive from each other. Reflecting on my story, I knew that when women gather, it opens a sacred space for each one of us to be heard and to listen, learn and love…heart to heart.”
Karin Moir
Bright’s Grove
Karin has a passion for creating a sense of purpose in whatever role or activity she engages in. Her background and training in multiple areas of health studies have taken her on a path that has enriched her life, strengthened her knowledge base and given her a wonderful set of skills to share with others.
Karin understands the need for women to band together, find a tribe in which to strengthen and boost each other up. She was raised by a strong single Mom and raised two strong daughters of her own.
Building a community of supportive woman is important to Karin, so it’s with joy that she is offering a Woman’s Wellness Circle in her home town of Bright’s Grove.
Click to read Karin’s testimonial
“My experience with Jill, training to be a host for the Women’s Wellness Circle, was a great experience. I was able to connect with other like minded women who have the same goals and share the objective to bring the feminine energy together to benefit each of us individually, as a group, and our communities. There is a surge of feminine power in the world right now where women are seeking wellness opportunities, stepping forward, speaking up and taking inspired action. This is not to take away from the masculine energy but only to compliment it and find our own unique power, voice and leadership.”
Tricia Rudy
London Area
Tricia Rudy is certified in Facilitated Equine Experiential Learning and operates Harmony with Horses on her farm just outside of London, Ontario. A graduate of the School of Hard Knocks, and with a lifelong love of horses, Tricia offers hope and guidance to anyone who has strayed off their path or has a desire to live a more authentic life. She believes wholeheartedly that we cannot do it alone.
Recently relocated, Tricia is proud to host the first London area, Women’s Wellness Circle. She invites you to join her at the farm in person, to meet in circle with other women and learn about topics relating to women’s health, wellness, and personal growth. She looks forward to introducing interesting and informative local experts to share their expertise with the women of our community.
Click to read Tricia’s testimonial
“I had the privilege of attending several Women’s Wellness Circles before I moved here, and realized I missed the monthly meetings, the support of like-minded women, and the interesting guest speakers. When I discovered there were not yet any Women’s Wellness Circles in the area, I decided to step up and become a host. With the unique ability to hold the Circle at my farm, I thought it was a perfect fit with what I am doing here at Harmony with Horses. Please come and meet the horses, enjoy the farm setting, and be part of a community of women supporting each other and coming together to share their experiences, wisdom and strength.”