Every thriving community is defined by leaders whose passion and generosity create lasting legacies.
In Airdrie, the late Hugh Hamilton, who founded Airdrie Registry, set this standard through his entrepreneurial spirit and deep commitment to community growth, from helping establish the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce to generously donating land to support local health-care initiatives.
In this spirit of community dedication, airdrielife proudly presents our 2025 Men We Admire, presented by Airdrie Registry, remarkable individuals who, like Hamilton, tirelessly give back through mentorship, volunteerism, coaching and countless acts of compassion. Their contributions echo Hamilton’s own, demonstrating that true leadership isn’t about accolades; it’s about enriching the lives of others and investing in a brighter future.
As you read their inspiring stories, you’ll find men dedicated to building connections, supporting neighbours and transforming our city, one meaningful moment at a time.
Join us in celebrating these outstanding men who continue to make Airdrie a vibrant and compassionate place to call home.
We hope you enjoy!
GBENGA AWOLERE: Framing Airdrie Through a Lens of Community and Culture
Gbenga Awolere is a storyteller at heart.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Gbenga began his career studying architecture, but his creative spirit pulled him toward photography and videography, where visual storytelling meets purpose. In 2020, he immigrated to Canada and, after two years in Calgary, found something special in Airdrie.
“It felt like home,” he says, drawn in by its calm atmosphere and tight-knit sense of community.
Gbenga’s gift lies in capturing the soul of a city in its people and diversity. Through his lens, Airdrie comes to life: from natural beauty and local landmarks to rich cultural celebrations. His work showcases what Airdrie looks like and reflects who it is.
More than a photographer, Gbenga is a connector. Whether volunteering his skills at community events or collaborating with local groups to tell their stories, he is passionate about fostering inclusivity and shared pride in the city’s multicultural fabric.
“Strong communities are built on connection and collaboration,” he says.
Like many newcomers, he faced the challenge of building new networks and finding ways to share his work. But Gbenga leaned in, attending events, connecting with people and using social media to amplify local voices. Today, he’s inspiring others to do the same.
Gbenga feels deeply honoured by the recognition from airdrielife’s Men We Admire,
viewing it as a powerful affirmation that passion, integrity and perseverance truly make a difference.
Looking ahead, he’s excited to embark on a visual storytelling initiative celebrating Airdrie’s diverse cultural communities, while also strengthening partnerships with local organizations. For Gbenga, each frame offers an opportunity to celebrate belonging.
MATT CARRE: Real Estate with Real Purpose
Matt Carre has never been one to sit still when there’s work to be done, especially when that work strengthens the community around him.
Originally from Oakville, Ont., Matt moved west in 2004 as a manufacturer’s rep before transitioning into real estate in 2006 and planting roots in Airdrie.
What started as a career move quickly turned into a lifelong connection to a city — and a mission to give back.
In 2013, Matt co-founded the Airdrie Angel Program, a now-well-known local initiative that provides personalized support to community members going through hardship. The idea is simple, but powerful: help those who are struggling,
through no fault of their own, by showing them they’re not alone. To date, the program has supported 140 recipients and delivered more than $260,000 in cash, gift cards and in-kind donations, each care package curated with compassion.
But it doesn’t stop there. Matt’s team also runs the Daddy Daughter Hair Day every July (teaching dads to style their daughters’ hair), organizes community food drives, distributes hundreds of Thanksgiving pies and remains a consistent source of generosity in Airdrie. Last year alone, their efforts raised more than $33,000 for the Airdrie Food Bank.
Despite the visibility, Matt is quick to emphasize that it’s never been about recognition.
“It’s never about you. It’s all about who you are helping,” he says.
His inspiration? His kids, and a desire to model what it means to live with purpose.
The recognition from airdrielife’s Men We Admire is an honour, but his true focus is on the future: transforming the Airdrie Angel Program into a registered charity and bringing it worldwide.
“My goal is 1,000 chapters,” he says. “If we can brighten someone’s world, even briefly, that’s success.”
MICHEL CONTANT: A Life of Service, One Event at a Time
For Michel Contant, volunteering is about community more than recognition.
A longtime Airdrie resident with a heart for service, Michel has spent decades quietly making a difference, ensuring events run smoothly and welcoming everyone with a smile.
Originally from St. Jacques, Que., Michel’s journey west began in 1981 when he moved to Lake Louise to work as the lead painter at Chateau Lake Louise. After nearly a decade in the Rockies, he made his way to Airdrie in 1988, bringing with him a strong work ethic and a passion for contributing to the places he calls home.
His commitment to volunteering began in Penticton, B.C., where he spent more than 20 years assisting at the Ironman Triathlon. That experience ignited a passion for giving back and, today, Michel is a familiar face at many Airdrie events, from greeting guests at the Home and Lifestyle Show to providing security at local fundraisers.
His role may change, but his dedication remains the same.
“It feels good doing my part,” he says, simply.
Michel credits his wife, Wendy, a devoted volunteer herself, as his biggest influence. Together, they believe in the power of giving time where it’s needed most.
“Many non-profits and charities need extra help right now,” he says. “Anything we can do makes a difference.”
As summer approaches, Michel looks forward to volunteering at the Airdrie Pro Rodeo and other events, continuing his quiet, yet impactful legacy, one act of service at a time.
BRENT EMO: Leading with Heart, Coaching with Purpose
From a young age, Brent Emo was taught the value of service.
A dedicated coach, leader and role model, Brent moved to Airdrie in 2017 after being promoted
to general manager at a steel manufacturing company. The move placed him close to family in Red Deer, but, more importantly, it placed him right where he was meant to be in a community where he could continue giving back.
Volunteering at bingo nights for Big Brothers Big Sisters, encouraged by his mom, instilled in him a mindset of contribution.
That passion has stayed with him, evolving into a lifelong dedication to youth coaching, particularly in hockey and ringette, where he’s helped countless young athletes recognize their potential and fall in love with the game.
Brent’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Raised by a single mother and growing up in poverty, he started working at just eight years old. By 16, he was balancing full-time work with high school. That work ethic, forged early, became the fuel that drove him toward leadership, not just in business, but in every locker room, arena and sideline he stepped into.
Today, Brent is known not only for his coaching, but for his unshakable commitment to kids.
“The best feeling is when an athlete tells you they can’t wait for next year,” he says.
And the foundation of his coaching philosophy? Trust and love between players, teammates and coach. “If kids love and trust each other, they can overcome anything,” Brent says.
Recognition from airdrielife’s Men We Admire holds special meaning for Brent, not because it was ever his goal, but because it highlights a lifetime spent quietly leading by example.
With the steadfast encouragement (and gentle teasing) of his wife, Jodi, who has supported him through countless road trips and multiple teams across cities, Brent remains inspired to keep showing up, coaching and positively shaping lives.
Looking forward, Brent is considering a shift to refereeing as a natural step that would keep him close to the sports he loves, while remaining deeply connected to his core mission of empowering others to thrive.
AARON FREUND: Coaching with Heart, Leading with Purpose
For Aaron Freund, time is his biggest challenge, but he always finds a way.
Born and raised in Calgary, Aaron moved to Airdrie in 2009 with his wife, Heather and growing family, searching for that rare combination of small-town feel and community spirit.
A Red Seal journeyman carpenter and pre-construction manager by trade, Aaron’s influence stretches far beyond the job site. Over the years, he’s coached basketball and TimBits soccer and now serves as the forwards coach for the Bert Church High School girls rugby team.
He’s also a sound engineer at Journey Church, where his role helps bring messages of hope to families from both Calgary and Airdrie.
And, for the past 12 years, Aaron and his wife, who he calls the rock of their family, have opened their home as foster parents, quietly changing lives, one child at a time.
“I believe we’re called to help the less fortunate,” Aaron says.
Whether it’s on the rugby field or in his own living room, Aaron leads with compassion, helping young people recognize their worth, build confidence and understand that they matter.
His motivation? The look on a young person’s face when they achieve something they didn’t believe they could.
Aaron humbly accepts recognition from airdrielife’s Men We Admire, crediting his mentors, his grandmother’s example of service and the community that supports him as the driving forces behind his achievements.
As a new rugby season gets underway, Aaron continues his commitment to developing not only skilled athletes, but also strong, resilient individuals.
To Aaron, the value of giving back isn’t counted in hours, but in the meaningful impact created.
STEVE GILLISS: Healing Through Harmony, Building Through Community
For Steve Gilliss, music is more than just a passion.
Originally from Miramichi, N.B., Steve moved west to Calgary in 1996, eventually settling in Airdrie in 2004 with his wife and daughter in search of a quieter, more connected place to call home. What he found was a stage for meaningful impact.
Steve’s journey into community service began with SLAM (Supporting Local Area Musicians), a grassroots group that introduced him to the heart of Airdrie’s creative scene. But it didn’t stop there.
Over the past decade, Steve has used music as a powerful tool for healing, particularly for veterans and first responders facing the silent battles of trauma and PTSD. His program offers instruments and free group lessons, asking only for time and commitment, proof of how music can be a lifeline.
His work continues through his involvement with the Thumbs Up Foundation, an Airdrie-based mental health-advocacy group working to build resilience and connection through innovative support programs.
Steve has helped bring legendary artists, from Great Big Sea to Guns N’ Roses alumni, to local stages, using the universal language of music to raise awareness, break stigma and bring people together.
Despite challenges in promotion and funding, Steve has never let obstacles stop the music.
“I prefer to be behind the scenes,” he says. “But I’m deeply honoured by this recognition.”
What’s next? Peace in the Park 4 and the development of a full-fledged music facility in partnership with the Veterans Association and Food Bank, offering lessons, workshops and a space for healing through creativity.
Because, for Steve, making noise isn’t about attention, it’s about connection.
CHRIS GLASS: Building Connection, One Story at a Time
From football fields to festival stages, few have embraced the spirit of Airdrie quite like Chris Glass.
Born and raised in Calgary, he made the move to Airdrie after returning from a stint in Edmonton, drawn by its small-town warmth and big-city promise. It didn’t take long for him to find his place, and purpose, within this growing city.
With 15 years of high school coaching experience already behind him, Chris immediately plugged into Airdrie’s football scene, joining the Airdrie Raiders before stepping into a head coach role at George McDougall High School. That role opened the door to one of his proudest accomplishments: helping lead the Airdrie Field Turf Project Society, which saw the long-anticipated turf field at Ed Eggerer Athletic Park come to life in 2024.
His dedication goes well beyond the game. From serving on event committees like airdrieFEST, Homecoming, Cabin Fever, Airdrie CultureFest and the Airdrie Sports Council, to launching a new podcast, Airdrie Inside, with journalist Britton Ledingham, Chris is always finding ways to amplify the voices and stories that make Airdrie exceptional.
What drives him? Values like kindness, connection and a deep belief that community is built by showing up and lending a hand.
Whether coaching young athletes, championing cultural diversity through events like CultureFest, or sharing real, local stories through his podcast, his passion is rooted in making people feel like they belong.
Being named one of airdrielife’s Men We Admire is deeply meaningful. “It’s humbling,” he says. “Many of the men recognized before me are people I’ve admired. To be included among them is an honour I hold close.”
Chris is looking ahead, dedicated to growing Airdrie Inside and nurturing connections through meaningful stories, thoughtful conversations and memorable moments.
SHANE GROARKE: Rooted in Airdrie, Driven by Purpose
Shane Groarke’s story is deeply intertwined with Airdrie’s own journey.
Born in Calgary, but raised in Airdrie since the age of three, when it had fewer than 15,000 people and just one traffic light, Shane has grown up alongside the city. After years of studying abroad, earning his law degree and gaining global perspective through travel across more than 20 countries, Shane found his way back home, driven by a renewed appreciation for community, connection and opportunity.
In 2020, Shane co-founded GP Law, a firm now celebrating its fifth year of growth and service in Airdrie. Situated on Main Street, GP Law stands as a proud part of the city’s revitalization, a full-circle moment for Shane, who fondly remembers spending hours at the old public library down the street.
Shane’s passion extends well beyond his legal practice. As president of the Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce, he supports more than 600 businesses and non-profits, advocating for their growth and resilience at all levels of government.
It’s a role that feeds his commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant Airdrie.
His driving values, service, connection, kindness and emotional well-being guide his work and volunteerism. “When you engage in acts of service, you not only feel better, but the community improves, too,” he says.
Balancing family, business, volunteerism and even wearing No. 7 for Real Sasquatch Soccer Club, Shane approaches life with grounded optimism and purpose.
As for being named one of airdrielife’s Men We Admire? “It finally evens the score,” he jokes, recalling his brother’s own airdrielife cover back in 2006.
As he looks to the future, Shane’s vision is clear: grow the business, revitalize downtown and potentially bring his voice to the provincial level with the Alberta.
KELLY HODGSON: Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Building Community
For Kelly Hodgson, community is about how you show up, not just where you live.
A father of six, Kelly spent more than 30 years in Calgary before love brought him to Airdrie in 2022. His wife, Renee, was firmly rooted in the city, and, while he jokes that he couldn’t convince her to move, he now can’t imagine being anywhere else.
“At first, I didn’t understand why people kept waving at me,” Kelly says. “I wasn’t used to such friendliness in Calgary.” That small-town warmth quickly won him over and, today, Kelly is deeply invested in giving back.
Through Renee’s connections and career with Astoria Asset Management, Kelly found himself immersed in the Airdrie community, supporting local businesses and championing fundraising efforts for the Airdrie Food Bank.
His passion, however, extends beyond economics. He is a fierce advocate for women’s rights, driven by his love for his daughters and granddaughters.
“If men pictured all women as their daughters, it might change a lot of behaviour in society,” Kelly says. Rather than staying silent, he believes in speaking up against disrespect and old-school thinking, challenging attitudes that no longer serve a just and equal world.
Guided by honesty, integrity and respect, Kelly has found something in Airdrie he never quite had before: a true sense of home.
As he looks ahead to retirement, family time and plenty of fishing, his impact on the community remains.
After all, as he says, “Making a difference starts by standing up and speaking out.”
STEVE JEVNE: Creating Community, One Song at a Time
Steve Jevne has spent most of his life crafting songs and creating spaces for creativity, connection and collaboration.
A born-and-raised artist who found his way to Airdrie from Vancouver as a child, Steve’s journey as a singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist took flight when he returned home from Australia and began hosting open mic nights.
“That’s where it all really started,” he says. “It connected me with like-minded people, and some of those early connections are still the ones I work with today.”
Driven by a desire to nurture the next generation of local artists, Steve’s passion lies in helping others reach their potential.
Whether it’s sharing industry insight or giving someone their first shot on stage, his goal is simple, yet powerful: be a chapter in someone else’s story.
The path hasn’t always been easy. Like many creatives, Steve has juggled the demands of building a career, the financial risks of live shows and the constant effort behind the scenes, often while bartending to make ends meet.
But the passion never wavered.
His response to being named one of airdrielife’s Men We Admire? “An incredible honour,” Steve says. “I’m just a guy in the world doing my thing, and, if that resonates, then I’m happy.”
With his roots in community, family support and inspiration from fellow Airdrie talents like Christian Hudson and Hayley Isabel, Steve is quick to share credit. He’s also quick to remind others: be unapologetically yourself.
Up next? Studio 88, a dream in the making, where more voices will be heard, and more stories will be shared. Because for Steve, the stage isn’t just his alone; it’s for all of Airdrie.
GARY MANOCHA: Guiding with Wisdom, Giving with Heart
When Gary Manocha first visited Airdrie while volunteering through a Calgary-based organization, he didn’t expect the city would one day become home.
But, after weekends spent soaking up the small-town spirit and strong community bonds, it was clear: Airdrie was where he belonged.
In 2019, Gary and his family made the move from Calgary, and they haven’t looked back since. “It’s like a family here,” he says, with a smile.
A CPA by profession, Gary is more than just a numbers guy, he’s a mentor, business advisor and community-builder. His journey into service began through entrepreneurship, running a small liquor store that was embraced by the community, despite stiff competition.
That support stayed with him. After transitioning into his own accounting and tax firm, Gary found new purpose mentoring emerging entrepreneurs through the City of Airdrie’s SMARTstart program.
“We had no help when we started,” he says. “I want to be that help for someone else.”
Passionate about empowering small businesses with smart tax strategies and sound financial advice, Gary knows their success fuels the city’s growth, creating jobs, supporting families and investing back into the local economy. He’s honest about the challenges, too, working with people who may not be ready to act, but his resilience and focus never waver.
Receiving recognition from airdrielife’s Men We Admire is deeply humbling for Gary. “It shows the community sees value in what we do,” he says.
Inspired daily by his father’s timeless advice to always be genuine, kind and truthful, Gary remains dedicated to uplifting those around him.
Next up? Coaching sessions as a certified CashFlow Canvas Coach and continuing to support entrepreneurs on their journey.
BOB McNEVIN: A Life of Service, Leadership, and Legacy
For Bob McNevin, community service is the foundation of his life.
Since moving to Airdrie in 1982, Bob has left an undeniable mark on the city, from his early grassroots activism to shepherding major veteran memorials. His legacy is one of dedication, resilience and an unshakable commitment to those who serve.
Bob’s introduction to volunteerism was unconventional, born from a city council battle over a grasshopper infestation in the mid 1980s. What started as frustration turned into action, leading to the creation of Airdrie’s first treelined pathways, a project that set the stage for his lifelong involvement in the community.
Over the years, Bob has served in countless roles, from leading Pedal for Kids, a charity cycling ride, to organizing the Legion Poppy Campaign and even playing Santa for Airdrie’s children.
But perhaps his most profound impact has been his work with veterans.
Bob was instrumental in bringing the LAV III Monument to Airdrie, a decommissioned light-armored vehicle that serves as a powerful tribute to Canadian Armed Forces members who served in Afghanistan and Bosnia. The entire project, worth more than $230,000, was funded through community donations, proving just how much Airdrie stands behind its veterans.
His dedication continued with the installation of the Korean War Monument, strengthening ties between Airdrie and the South Korean community.
Recognized with the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers and the Meritorious Medal of Merit, Bob remains humbled by this latest honour. “I’m still on Cloud 9,” he says.
And he’s not done yet. His next mission is to bring more young veterans into the Legion, ensuring their voices and stories are honoured for generations to come.
TYRELL ROHL: Shaping Young Athletes, Building Stronger Futures
For Tyrell Rohl, football serves as a meaningful way to help young athletes grow, not just on the field, but in life, by fostering confidence, building character and creating a sense of belonging.
Raised in Airdrie since 1988, Tyrell’s love for the game started with his father, who played and later coached him. By 13, he was part of Airdrie’s first-ever Bantam Tackle team and, just a few years later, he was coaching alongside his dad, discovering his passion for mentorship.
Now, as Airdrie Football’s director and Peewee Storm’s head coach, Tyrell is dedicated to growing the game at the grassroots level. Through programs like the NFL Flag League, Xtreme Flag and tackle football, he’s creating pathways for kids to develop not just as players, but as leaders.
“Football teaches life skills, hard work, accountability, perseverance,” he says. “That impact lasts far beyond the field.”
Challenges haven’t slowed him down. He’s tackled safety concerns head-on, introduced new programs and worked to increase registration. His efforts earned recognition from Football Alberta, but, for Tyrell, the true reward is seeing former players return as coaches, eager to give back.
Supported by his wife of 25 years, Jamie, and his brother, Nolan, whom he credits as the driving force behind Airdrie Football’s growth, Tyrell continues to push for more opportunities.
His message? “Making an impact doesn’t happen overnight. But, if you stay committed, you can build something that truly changes lives.”
MAULIK SHAH: Leading with Compassion, Fighting Hunger, and Strengthening Community
For Maulik Shah, giving back is a calling.
As the founder of the Indian Society of Airdrie, a professional engineer and a dedicated father of four, Maulik has spent the past decade making a meaningful impact on the city he calls home.
His journey of service is deeply personal, inspired by the resilience of his own family and his desire to build a stronger, more connected Airdrie.
One of Maulik’s most impactful initiatives is the Fight Against Hunger Drive, a weekly program that provides free groceries to those in need. What started as a simple act of service has grown into a community-driven movement, ensuring that no family in Airdrie goes hungry. Through partnerships with local businesses and dedicated volunteers, the initiative has created a
ripple effect of generosity, proving that small acts of kindness can lead to profound change.
Of course, challenges exist, and securing consistent donations and co-ordinating volunteers can be difficult, but Maulik’s unwavering commitment keeps him moving forward.
His guiding principles? Compassion, integrity and collaboration.
“When we work together, we can achieve so much more,” he says.
Earning a place among airdrielife’s Men We Admire is a distinction Maulik holds close to his heart. But, beyond recognition, his true motivation lies in encouraging others to take meaningful action.
As he looks to the future, Maulik remains committed to expanding his initiatives, nurturing community spirit and passionately continuing his mission of uplifting others, one meal, one connection and one thoughtful act at a time.
WILLY SNYPES: Leading with Purpose, Living with Heart
Willy Snypes, also known as Willie Williams, is many things: a husband, father, firefighter, coach, personal trainer, business owner and music producer.
Originally from the U.S., he was raised between New York and Florida before finding his way to Airdrie in 2010 with his wife, Cheryl, ready to build a life and family in a place they could truly call home. And, since Day 1, Willy’s been focused on doing just that: building not just a life, but a legacy.
From coaching football with the Airdrie Raiders and George McDougall High School to delivering Christmas hampers with his kids, Willy’s passion lies in making a tangible difference, especially in the lives of young people.
His drive to give back started as a teen in Florida, when a couple of local officers brought food to his door and reminded him that he was seen. That memory still fuels his mission: to give others the same kind of hope.
Whether he’s mentoring student-athletes or showing his own children the importance of lifting others, Willy believes in leading by example.
“Be the difference,” he says, encouraging others not to wait for the right moment, but to be the right moment in someone’s life.
He’s deeply humbled by the Men We Admire recognition, yet quick to acknowledge his wife as his greatest supporter, the one who motivates him, listens to his ideas and stands beside him through every step.
Willy is launching a youth athletic-development company dedicated to empowering kids with the skills they need, not just for athletic success, but for life beyond sports.
To Willy, giving back isn’t merely a role; it’s a responsibility.
JASON TRUDEAU: A Life of Leadership, Creativity, and Community
For Jason Trudeau, giving back is just a reflection of who he is.
A husband, father and dedicated community member, Jason has spent the past two decades shaping Airdrie in ways both seen and unseen. Whether through his professional work in signage or his deep commitment to local organizations, his influence is woven into the fabric of the city he calls home.
His journey in Airdrie began in 2004, but it was in 2006, while working at Advance Distribution, that Jason truly saw the power of community. Inspired by the generosity of the owners, he decided he would pay it forward.
And he has, time and again, through roles with the Chamber of Commerce, Pro Rodeo, Air Show, Agricultural Society and as a dedicated supporter of youth sports.
Professionally, Jason is passionate about how signage and design shape Airdrie’s identity. From transit vans to community landmarks like the RCMP Station and Public Library, his work enhances the city’s public spaces in meaningful ways.
But, beyond the signs he creates, it’s the connections he builds that matter most.
Balancing family, career and volunteerism isn’t always easy, but Jason believes in one simple truth: showing up makes a difference. His grandfather, a lifelong public servant, instilled in him the belief that leadership goes beyond titles; it’s about action.
Now, as he expands his involvement with the Airdrie Raiders Football Club, Jason remains focused on what drives him most: creating impact, fostering connections and ensuring that Airdrie continues to thrive.
