A message from Alberta Blue Cross:
Zachary Weeks, Sarah Fung, Jim Scott, and Paul Wagman have something powerful in common. Each of them has turned personal challenges into meaningful community impact. Their stories remind us that wellness is a way of showing up and lifting others. Now, as we launch Faces of Wellness 2025, we're looking to spotlight the next group of Albertans whose stories deserve to be heard.
Faces of Wellness celebrates Albertans whose actions, advocacy, or support help others live healthier lives. Stories like those of Zachary, Sarah, Jim, and Paul may not have been widely known if they or someone who was inspired by them hadn't stepped up to share their journey.
The 2024 grand prize recipient, Zachary was born with cerebral palsy. His lived experiences and determination led to him becoming a passionate advocate for accessibility. From consulting on spaces like Rogers Place to ensuring the voices of the differently abled community are heard to advising on policy through the City of Edmonton, Zachary's work is creating safer, more inclusive communities for all.
One of the 10 finalists in 2024, Sarah is an adult counsellor at the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton. She supports survivors of trauma, guiding them towards healing. Her journey — navigating identity, heritage, and healing — led her to start Queer Edmonton, a platform that connects and amplifies queer voices across the city.
Jim, also a finalist, is a longtime running coach. His volunteer work has helped more than 1,100 seniors stay active and build strength. He has coached and encouraged many to embrace healthy lifestyles, including overcoming challenges with sobriety and training for physical exams.
Among their fellow finalists is Paul Wagman, a former first responder who founded Wayfinders Wellness Society to support others navigating mental health trauma. As Paul shares, "I hope that through sharing my story navigating mental health trauma that it will help others on their journey to wellness."
Meet all our 2024 honourees, chosen from more than 250 applicants and nominees.
Faces of Wellness returns for the fifth year to celebrate Albertans whose everyday actions inspire wellness in others — at work, home, or in the community. Applications and nominations are open until Oct. 30. A 2025 grand prize recipient will get a weekend getaway in the Alberta Rockies, and 10 inspiring finalists will each receive a $550 Well.ca gift card.
Now, it might take a few minutes to apply or nominate. But when a story has the power to spark someone else's journey, it's time well spent.
"Each year, Faces of Wellness reminds us that everyday courage can create an extraordinary impact," says Narissa Kanji, director of Community Impact. "At Alberta Blue Cross, we're honoured to celebrate Albertans like Zachary, Sarah, Jim, and Paul. Their stories reflect what wellness truly means: showing up for one another, lifting others through challenge and building a healthier community."
Every face has a story. Let's help more of them be heard. Apply to be or nominate a face of wellness today.