ABOUT
Board of Directors
Garry Melnyk, RMT
President
20+ years of practising Massage Therapy; founder and current president of RMTSMB, Merit Award recipient for outstanding contributions to the profession
I like to work with patients with complex musculoskeletal symptoms and love advancing patients toward positive functional changes. I founded RMTSMB because I enjoy politics and working as an advocate for Massage Therapists. I’m committed to continuing competencies and the accreditation of schools and legislation of the profession leading to the creation of a Massage Therapy College. I hope I can inspire others to defend patients’ wellbeing and secure Massage Therapists as healthcare professionals.
Word of Wisdom
Be the change you wish to see in the world. —Mahatma Gandhi
Wendy Gambrel, RMT
Vice-President
Owner of Aruba Massage Therapy Clinic; 20+ years working as a self-employed Massage Therapist; graduate of Wellington College
My clients are amazing. Alleviating their aches, pains and stress while enhancing their physical, mental and emotional health in a drug free environment is what I love about being an RMT. ‘Your health is your wealth.’
I enjoy supporting co-workers and mentoring other therapists to help them flourish and run their own massage businesses. I joined RMTSMB in the early development when we had just four members and the vision of ‘build it and they will come!’ I enjoy being part of the growth and development of the Board and Association as we work to nourish and bring forth the careers of massage therapy!
Word of Wisdom
Take the path forward, one step at a time. Take time to communicate and listen with an open heart.
Robert Price-Lewis, RMT
Treasurer
Registered Massage Therapist of eight years; two years as a massage therapy instructor; co-owner and operator of ROKA Massage & Wellness in Stonewall, Manitoba
Every client who walks through my door is hoping to leave feeling better than when they arrived. My job is to make that happen. I have invested my time and energy into my clients’ wellbeing, and they have reciprocated their gratitude by coming back for more. This is very rewarding to me.
As an instructor, I witnessed my students choosing a variety of paths within massage once they graduated. RMTs don’t all fit into the same box. We need to find areas that excite us and develop them to become the most successful therapists we can. RMTSMB doesn’t force its members to take continuing education courses as part of its membership. Rather, it empowers us to remain current and develop our skills sets. This attracted me to the Association.
I joined the Board because I wanted my say. It made sense that I should involve myself in discussions and decisions that influence my career.
Being in this privileged position has allowed me to have a voice for the benefit of its members.
I came into massage therapy later in life, following careers in education, communication, and logistics. The skills I gained helped me develop my brand, and are useful in my position as a Director with RMTSMB.
Word of Wisdom
Set boundaries and listen to your body. Self-care is essential for longevity.
Audra Holyk, RMT
Director
20+ years of practising Massage Therapy; 10+ years as a contract worker in a chiropractic clinic; working mobile since 2010
Massage Therapy has allowed me to help people with pain and stress achieve an overall feeling of wellbeing without the use of pharmaceuticals. I believe that RMTSMB has an important mission to help Massage Therapists gain the recognition they deserve as healthcare providers. I strive to be a voice for Massage Therapists who don’t work in a clinic setting but working independently with limited contact with their peers.
Word of Wisdom
Support each other and don’t allow other healthcare professionals to belittle what Massage Therapy adds to an individual’s health.
Derek Olshevski, Human being, RMT
Director
Practicing Remedial Massage Therapist since 2002 and graduated from Wellington College. I created and currently still practise out of Positive Results Massage Therapy. I really enjoy working with challenging cases, new RMTs and taking on a mentoring/ advisory roll.
I joined RMTSMB because I want to support the industry and to add my voice to the eclectic team of Board or Directors
Unsolicited Advice
Be genuine and honest. Always do your best and never stop learning.
Jody Friesen, RMT
Director
25+ years of practising Massage Therapy; co-founder of RMTSMB and reoccurring board member.
Jody first began her career in a clinic with a chiropractor, followed by a physiotherapy clinic and a home based practice. This has provided her with an excellent opportunity to learn and appreciate other health care providers.
In 2001 Jody started her board experience in Massage Therapy with a small glimmer of where the profession would one day go. From the very beginning legislation and regulation of Massage Therapy were the focus of board meetings. We have come a long way since the days of board meetings in living rooms and kitchens and Jody will continue to advocate for the profession of Massage Therapy until we are a Regulated Health Profession.
Learning and educating has always been a priority for Jody. Continued Professional Competency allows therapists to grow and develop their skills to improve the care they provide. Jody has completed many levels of myofascial release, cupping, pre/post natal care, pharmacology and massage therapy, and many other workshops.
Massage Therapists have the privilege to provide health and wellness care in an environment that supports patients to find their way to optimal mobility.
Words of Wisdom
You’ll never work a day in your life if you love what you do!
Dave Ferguson
Public Interest Trustee
I enjoy and appreciate being part of an active, growing membership working toward a worthy goal. I question things… a lot (despite most of my family being in the military, I would not have lasted there myself!). I bring a new perspective to the Board, and a different perspective—from a consumer, not a provider. If members are questioning something and would like the perspective of an ‘outsider,’ let me know.
Fast Fact
I could talk about, listen to, and play music all day.
Executive Director
Pamela Gregoire, RMT
20+ years Self Employed actively practising Massage Therapy in multiple therapeutic environments.
As an RMT, I love the autonomy of my schedule and the flexibly it provides to ensure work-life balance. I want the same for all RMTs. I’m organized and task-oriented by nature. My job as Executive Director of RMTSMB allows me to put those skills to work. I take pride in providing honest support to upcoming and practising Massage Therapists, working to help create opportunities to ensure our profession grows with recognition.
Fast Fact
I cannot whistle.
Regulation Consultant
George Fraser, TBD
Has retired from his Executive Director duties but will continue to provide Government and Regulation Consultation.
