Meet your 2021 S.W.E.E.T Ambassadors
Cyndi Kennedy
I’m 58, a government worker, mom of three, and proud wife. I love animals, nature, and giving back—coaching a cadet biathlon team, volunteering with Search and Rescue, and singing in a classic rock band. I’m also an active Lions Club member and outdoor enthusiast.
In my 20s, I turned to sport to help overcome addiction, choosing running for its simplicity and freedom. Nearly 25 years later, I still run with one of those first fitness friends. Ten years ago, I faced a difficult divorce and financial crisis—once again, running and training became my lifeline. Sport helped rebuild my strength, pride, and purpose.
Since then, I’ve completed countless races from 5Ks to ultramarathons and triathlons. It’s brought me lifelong friends, unforgettable adventures, and deep resilience. Even through COVID, movement keeps me grounded. I’m honoured to be a SWEET ambassador and can’t wait to connect with others who find joy, strength, and healing through year-round activity.
Julie Chouinard
Hi! My name is Julie and I am excited to be part of the SWEET ambassador program and Bushtukah community this year!
I am a 48-year-old mom of two wonderful young adults, an elementary school principal, and a sports enthusiast.
Thanks to my parents, who met on the downhill slopes, my love of sports started at a very young age as they shared their love of skiing with me. I’ve since added hockey, soccer, running, XC skiing, and hiking into my life—activities that have brought me so much joy. They’ve been a gateway to explore new places, meet new people, and connect with the environment.
This year, more than ever, staying physically active continues to be important as we navigate the changes and uncertainties brought on by the pandemic. My goal is to explore the beautiful nature in our region and appreciate the many trails and pathways the NCC has to offer. I look forward to sharing my adventures and discoveries with you!
Emily O'Connor
I’m very excited to be a SWEET ambassador this year and looking forward to staying active no matter what 2021 throws at us!
I started cycling to manage PhD stress in 2017—with a spring road bike purchase that quickly turned into a summer cycling trip across Europe. The mountains were massive, and I was still on flat pedals! That first trip sparked a love for cycling that’s led to bikepacking adventures, including a ride through the Outer Hebrides in Scotland.
I moved from the UK to Canada in 2019 and actually bought a bike before a sofa. Wanting to meet people and improve my riding, I joined the Eastern Ontario Cyclocross series and had a blast. The friends I made and skills I gained were incredible—I encourage anyone to try it, even if you’re riding at the back!
Last year I rode my first solo 200km and this year, I’m aiming for 300km (croissants included). Since then, I’ve taken up MTB, canoeing, cross-country skiing (completed the bronze Coureur des bois!), and now trail running. I love learning new sports and being part of active communities—and I’d love to help anyone else do the same!
Brandy Blüm
My name is Brandice (Brandy) Blüm, and I’m an Engineering officer in the Navy. I moved to Ottawa last summer from the UK during the pandemic. Though I figure skated and rode horses growing up, I only became truly active in my 30s. Living in Victoria, I raced dragon boats and outrigger canoes. In 2016, a friend encouraged me to try road cycling, and I bought my first road bike from Bushtukah—a Trek Domane 2.3.
That same year, I ran my first half marathon, and since then, I’ve completed several half marathons and triathlons, including Ironman 70.3 races. My first 70.3 in 2018 was challenging but memorable, and in 2019 I qualified for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships.
This year, I’m training for CanadaWoman Extri—a long-course triathlon and marathon combo. I’m nervous about the cold-water swim but excited for the challenge. Being a SWEET Ambassador means sharing my journey and encouraging others to try new sports and enjoy the outdoors.
Catlin Seibel-Kamel
Hey pals! My name is Cat and I’m a (very) amateur non-binary triathlete, who also enjoys a good hike or some yoga. Quite frankly, it still feels weird saying that, as I only decided to start training for an Ironman triathlon during the pandemic while cooped up in my tiny apartment. Depending on the turns of the pandemic, I’m hoping to compete in a handful of sprint triathlons and marathons beforehand. My two big goals for the remainder of the year are to bike solo from Ottawa to Toronto and overall bike 10,000km.
When I’m not training, you can find me at the Senate, where I work as a legislative clerk. Or, I’m in some park, reading in the shade. Despite having been a relatively active teen, playing golf, sailing, and doing karate, this is the best I’ve ever felt mentally and physically and I’m excited to see how far I can push my body and my boundaries.
I look forward to getting to know other SWEET ambassadors and seeing how we all grow over the course of the summer.
Meet Our Past S.W.E.E.T Ambassadors
Over the years, our SWEET ambassadors have inspired women of all ages and abilities to get active, try new things, and build community through sport. From first-time 5Ks to epic bike tours and trail adventures, these women have shared their stories, celebrated personal milestones, and helped make SWEET what it is today. We’re proud to highlight some of the incredible ambassadors who’ve been part of this journey.
