The Calgary Herald has once again spotlighted the individuals who make the city extraordinary with its annual 20 Compelling Calgarians list for 2025. This prestigious compilation, authored by Rita Mingo and Barb Livingstone, celebrates a diverse group of locals whose dedication, talent, and compassion are making significant impacts across various sectors of society.
Honouring Local Impact and Achievement
Now a cherished tradition, the list serves as a powerful reminder of the positive force within the community. It goes beyond mere recognition, aiming to inspire and warm the hearts of readers by sharing the profound stories of everyday people accomplishing remarkable things. The selected individuals represent a wide cross-section of life in Calgary, from elite athletes on the world stage to quiet heroes driving change in neighbourhoods, classrooms, and boardrooms.
The complete roster of honourees for 2025 includes: Brooke D’Hondt, Aphrodite Deng, Pete Estabrooks, Dawn Farrell, Jeromy Farkas, Mo Jabari, Sara Jordan-McLachlan, Christine Leppard, Katie McLellan, Bukola Ojemakinde, Maxim Olshevsky, Ross Pambrun, Daniella Paulich, Lucy Reyes, Alisha Reynolds, Murray Sigler, Balwant Singh, Bryce Starlight, Taegan and Keelyn Stewart, and Mariya Stokes.
Spotlight on an Olympic Hopeful: Brooke D’Hondt
Among the compelling stories is that of snowboarder Brooke D’Hondt, whose journey embodies resilience and rapid ascent. The Calgarian made history as the youngest member of Team Canada at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, where she competed in the women’s halfpipe final and placed 10th—a remarkable feat considering she had contracted COVID-19 just before departing for China.
"I had accepted the fact that maybe I wasn’t going to be able to go," D’Hondt recalled. That perspective, she believes, helped alleviate pressure, allowing her to treat the global event as another competition. Just weeks after her Olympic debut, she secured a bronze medal at the FIS Junior World Championships, signaling her rising talent.
Now 20 years old, D’Hondt is preparing for the 2026 Winter Games as a genuine medal contender. Reflecting on her whirlwind few years, which included attending the National Sport School, she noted how quickly time has passed. "It’s crazy that we’re already back at the Olympics this year," she said.
Her recent achievements include making finals at world championships, which secured her Olympic qualification, and participating in the inaugural Snow League, a new snowboard contest founded by legend Shaun White. To prepare for the intense season ahead, D’Hondt has undertaken training camps in Austria and Switzerland, with six major contests scheduled before the Games.
"I’m just trying to stay focused and healthy and motivated," she stated. "I think the more you can stay in it and build your confidence and competition skills before the games, that’s the best way to do it."
A Tapestry of Inspiration for Calgary
The story of Brooke D’Hondt is just one of twenty narratives that collectively paint a vibrant picture of Calgary's spirit. The Calgary Herald's 2025 list underscores the idea that inspiration is often found close to home. These compelling Calgarians, through their unique contributions in sports, community service, business, arts, and beyond, demonstrate the powerful impact of individual dedication on the collective fabric of the city. Their stories are a testament to the innovation, perseverance, and heart that define Calgary, offering both pride and motivation to all residents.
