It might seem like Valérie has already lived two lives from the outside. First, she was a long-track speed-skater for 20 years, in addition to being a member of the Canadian speed-skating team for much of her athletic career. Then she transitioned into a successful career in high finance. But no matter where she was along her impressive journey, this accomplished sportswoman and financial market specialist is quick to say that sports were vital in preparing her for life in countless, precious ways.

As an international athlete, Valérie learned the importance of perseverance and working on long-term goals. After all, the game of sports is about winning and losing, but her focus was always on something bigger. That realization is still immensely helpful as she juggles life’s challenges in the financial world.

Sports have also provided her with many inspiring role models, like two-time Olympic speed-skating champion, Catriona Le May Doan, who profoundly impacted Valérie’s life through her uncanny ability to bring out the very best in everyone. That positive influence has clearly rubbed off on Valérie because she, too, radiates positive energy that empowers the countless people she meets.

Valérie understands how important sports are to human development in profound, personal ways. And now that she’s the mother of a young boy and girl of her own, she’s proud to support FitSpirit’s mission as a leader in the FitSpirit Mother/Daughter Challenge. Her ultimate wish is that girls of every age strive for “faster, higher and stronger.”

"I'm the one skating ahead of mom!" – Olivia, 4 years old