Safety Steering Committee

Alexandra Castonguay has a diverse background spanning athletics, administration, and communications. With a foundation built on years of dedication to competitive swimming and CrossFit, Alexandra’s passion for physical fitness and determination propelled her into completing her studies in firefighting. She ultimately redirected her career path towards communications, showcasing her adaptability and strategic mindset.

With a Bachelor of Administration with a specialization in marketing, Alexandra seamlessly transitioned into the role of Operations and Communications Coordinator at Gymnastique Québec from 2016 to 2019. Her dynamic skill set and strong organizational acumen enabled her to excel in this capacity, facilitating the smooth execution of various initiatives and projects.

Currently serving as the Director of Communications and Operations at Gymnastique Québec, Alexandra continues to make a significant impact in the realm of sports administration. In her role, she spearheads critical initiatives such as managing the safe sport file alongside the executive director, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

Equipped with a diverse educational background, including an International Ombuds Association Certification and a Master of Education in Adult Education with a focus on the Prevention of Violence, Judi possesses a robust skill set rooted in both theory and practice. Her career trajectory showcases a commitment to excellence and innovation, evident in her roles as an International Delegate for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), a Project Manager for Creating Safe Environments, and a Director of Respect Education at the Canadian Red Cross, where she spearheaded initiatives spanning multiple continents and sectors.

With a repertoire of specialized courses ranging from Sexual Violence Prevention to Cross Cultural Communication, Judi has honed her expertise in diverse facets of safeguarding, empowering organizations to implement comprehensive protection measures. Noteworthy contributions include her tenure as a Team Lead for Child Safeguarding Training at UNICEF and her present role as Interim Global Ombuds for SOS Children Villages International. Judi’s impact extends beyond training and consultation, as evidenced by her publications on topics such as Psychological First Aid and Healthy Youth Relationships, serving as invaluable resources for practitioners and scholars alike.

In addition to her extensive professional engagements, Judi is deeply committed to fostering collaboration and advocacy within the safeguarding community. Her involvement in committees and advisory roles, including contributions to organizations such as St Anne’s Congregation and the TTP – Sport Safeguarding, underscores her dedication to driving systemic change and promoting best practices. Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Judi has received numerous accolades, including the UBC Global Partnership Alumni Award and the Florence Nightingale Medal from the ICRC, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in safeguarding and violence prevention.

Mark has had a distinguished career spanning over five decades, primarily in corporate and commercial law, before retiring at the end of 2021. His legal expertise led him to become deeply involved in various non-profit organizations, where he dedicated his time and skills pro bono. For over 25 years, Mark served as the trusted legal advisor to Gymnastics Saskatchewan, offering invaluable guidance. Additionally, he provided counsel to organizations such as Saskatchewan Soccer, Saskatchewan Figure Skating, and The Saskatchewan Games Council, further demonstrating his commitment to the sports community.

Mark’s contributions extend beyond legal advice. He has been a driving force in the governance of numerous sports organizations. With a tenure of over 40 years in gymnastics, Mark held positions ranging from serving on the Gymnastics Canada board to presiding as President of Gymnastics Saskatchewan. His leadership also extended to roles such as director of Saskatchewan Sport and President of the Saskatchewan Games Council, where he played pivotal roles in shaping sports governance in Saskatchewan.

With a keen interest in elevating the status of gymnastics as a safe and enjoyable sport, Mark remains actively engaged in promoting Safe Sport initiatives.

Kacey completed her Master’s and PhD in Sport Psychology and a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Comprehensive School Health. She was an Assistant Professor in Sport Psychology, however, after 5 years her passion for impact in sport lead her to her current leadership position within the Canadian sport sector. Her research focused on psycho-social dynamics within youth sport. Kacey has combined her academic expertise with practical leadership to strengthen safe sport in gymnastics. Her work emphasizes evidence-based approaches to safeguarding, athlete welfare, and organizational culture change, ensuring that every athlete, coach, and leader is equipped to contribute to a safe and supportive sport experience.

Alexandra Orlando is an Olympian, Pan American and Commonwealth Games Champion in the sport of Rhythmic Gymnastics. With over 15 years of experience in the international sports movement, she has a unique background in large scale multi-sport event delivery and marketing providing an in-depth understanding of brand & community-building, sponsorship, digital innovation.

Alexandra is a keynote speaker, published author and has served on a number of advisory boards with the International and Canadian Olympic Committee.

Michelle Pothier brings three decades of extensive experience in gymnastics coaching (WAG C3) and judging (WAG Brevet Candidate) to her role. Her distinguished career includes positions as a Recreational Coordinator at Gymnastics Ontario and Technical Director at Gymnastics Nova Scotia. She also founded and operated Gymfinity Gymnastics in Ontario and currently serves as the General Manager at ALTA Gymnastics in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Michelle holds a certificate in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) from Dalhousie University, which complements her professional expertise. She has been instrumental in supporting athletes both on and off the mat, turning her focus to mentorship as a dedicated learning facilitator. Michelle has successfully cultivated hundreds of new coaches at the Foundations and Competition Introduction levels.

As a passionate advocate for athletes, Michelle champions an inclusive and supportive training environment where individuals can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.

As a three-time Olympian, and the 2004 Olympic champion, Kyle carved his name into the sporting history book records. Beyond his achievements on the competitive stage, Kyle is a visionary entrepreneur, serving as the owner of Kyle Shewfelt Gymnastics, where he aims to create a fun and safe environment for all.

His commitment to excellence extends beyond the gym floor, as he actively contributes to the development of Canadian sport. Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Kyle was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, a testament to his legacy and impact on the sporting landscape. Additionally, he lends his expertise as a board member of the Canadian Sport Institute Alberta, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of high-performance sport in the region.

Kyle’s passion for gymnastics and sports advocacy is further exemplified through his role as a CBC Sports broadcaster, where he shares his insights and enthusiasm with audiences nationwide, inspiring others to pursue their athletic aspirations.