Our Mission
"We believe that strong individuals create strong communities. By empowering people to take control of their health and fitness, we help build healthier, more connected communities."
Meet the Team
Zach Drew
My name is Zach and I am the founder of Level Up. I transformed my life through fitness after overcoming significant personal challenges, including homelessness and addiction. Fitness became a cornerstone of my recovery, helping me rebuild my physical and mental health, and I’m passionate about sharing this powerful tool with others who are ready to make a change.
Over the past decade, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome addiction by equipping them with the tools to transform their lives. I had the privilege of serving as the Centre Director of Teen Challenge Saskatchewan, and I now lead as the Director of Ongoing Care for Teen Challenge Canada. My journey has been supported by a strong foundation in education and training—I studied addictions at McMaster University, earned certifications in Personal Training and Nutrition from the International Sports Sciences Association, and completed advanced training in Motivational Interviewing.
When I’m not training in the gym or helping people, I love spending quality time with my wife and daughters and travelling the world.
Brandon Wicks
I’m Brandon Wicks, co-owner of Rise Strength Lab, where I’ve dedicated myself to building a community that empowers people through strength and resilience. I’m passionate about the transformative power of exercise and its ability to improve not just physical health but mental well-being as well.
Five years ago, my life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. The condition left me barely able to walk and forced me to confront the loss of my physical identity. Just as I began to recover, I experienced a PTSD episode that tested my mental fortitude even further. Over the past four years, exercise has been my anchor, helping me rebuild my body and mind, and teaching me the true meaning of resilience.
Now, as a co-founder of Level Up, I’m thrilled to help break down financial barriers so more people can experience the life-changing benefits of fitness. My personal journey fuels my mission: to help others discover their strength, overcome challenges, and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Chelsea Kent
My name is Chelsea Kent, and I’ve been a proud member of the Rise Strength Lab team since 2018, working as a dedicated personal trainer. I hold my ISSA Personal Trainer certification, as well as a Youth Care Worker Diploma, which have both equipped me with the skills and knowledge to guide individuals on their journey toward health and wellness.
Before joining Level Up, I spent nine years working closely with at-risk youth, a role that deepened my commitment to community involvement and gave me a unique perspective on the importance of holistic support systems. Helping others overcome challenges has always been a core part of who I am, and I believe that fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment can lead to incredible transformation.
My passion for health and fitness is deeply personal. Having faced my own struggles with addiction and mental health, I’ve learned firsthand the value of resilience, self-care, and balance. These experiences have shaped my philosophy as a trainer and mentor, inspiring me to not only better myself but also to uplift those around me.
When Zach approached me to be a part of Level Up, it was an instant yes. I am excited to guide people in our community to finding the best versions of themselves.
Jarek Rhode
My name is Jarek Rhode, Co-Owner of Rise Strength Lab, and one of the many driving forces behind Level Up. What I bring is years of experience in the fitness industry and a deep commitment to helping others. With a career dedicated to health and wellness, I have worked with individuals from all walks of life, empowering them to build confidence, strength, and resilience through fitness.
As someone who understands the transformative power of healthy habits, I’ve brought this knowledge into Level Up to help make fitness accessible to those who need it most. Our mission is rooted in the belief that strong individuals build strong communities and that fitness can be a catalyst for positive change—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
I am committed to helping others take their first steps toward personal growth. Whether through coaching, program design, or community outreach, I’ll ensure that everyone has the opportunity to start their fitness journey in a supportive and inclusive environment.
