Mokie Barabash-Burnham of Sechelt was recognized as one of the top fitness professionals in B.C. recently.

The B.C. Recreation and Parks Asso-ciation (BCRPA) presented Barabash-Burnham with the group fitness leader of the year award at its annual convention at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby. The two-day conference brings together fitness leaders and volunteers from around the province to discuss fitness and health-related topics and provide professional development opportunities.

Barabash-Burnham teaches a variety of fitness classes for all ages and abilities on the Sunshine Coast, organizes community sport and recreation events and has extensive volunteering experience.

She has lived on the Coast for more than 35 years, the majority spent promoting sports, recreation and physical fitness.

Her oldest son nominated her for the award, and a panel of judges from the BCRPA selected the winners in the four award categories (personal trainer of the year, group fitness leader of the year, aquatic fitness leader of the year and program director of the year).

“We all know it’s never just one person, and I was proud to represent this group as fitness leader,” said Barabash-Burnham. “I love what I do. I’ve always been involved in fitness and recreation. When my husband was playing soccer, I helped to pioneer the women’s soccer league. This recognition is nice and will enable me to participate more with the BCRPA, which is important to me.”

Besides the award from the BCRPA, Barabash-Burnham also won the Canfit Pro award.

“That award comes out of Toronto, and they will do a spotlight interview with me that will come out next year,” she said. “That award is Canada-wide, so it’s really exciting to be recognized for that too.”

The fitness awards handed out last weekend recognize professional commitment through community and industry involvement.

BCRPA CEO Suzanne Allard Strut said the work of professionals such as Barabash-Burnham is inspiring.

“Congratulations to this year’s fitness award winners and to the other nominees,” Strut said. “Certified fitness leaders are making a significant contribution to enhancing the quality of life of people across the province. Every day, they’re helping British Columbians from all walks of life take charge of their own health and lead active lifestyles.”

There are currently more than 3,400 fitness leaders certified by the BCRPA. They work in public and private facilities including recreation centres, gyms, pools, health clubs, spas and outdoor settings. They assist individuals and groups in becoming strong and mobile and staying healthy.