Canadian Olympian Brandie Wilkerson feels empowered and healthy on and off the court … what’s her secret?

A professional athlete’s intensity, no matter which sport they play, can inspire fans and intimidate competitors. But one thing is certain: an athlete’s work ethic is not only reflected in their performance but also influences their lifestyle when they’re not competing. It is those non-training days, filled with limitless temptation, that can make all the difference!

City Life was honoured to sit down with one of Canada’s most beloved Olympians, Brandie Wilkerson, to get the inside scoop on how an elite competitor stays physically and mentally ready to perform at the highest level on the role of confidence in her life and what inspires her to continue doing what she loves.

Q: What are some wellness tips or practices you swear by to stay physically and mentally fit both during the volleyball season and in your off time?
A: For me, movement is a big part of my physical and mental health. Finding ways to move my body, whether it’s weight training, yoga, a walk around town or even dancing, helps to keep my activeness as a lifestyle rather than restricting [it], and helps even my moods when I’m not feeling my best. I also love including healthy foods like beets, turmeric and ginger in my daily routine. During the season, a big thing is dedicating time for rest, whether it’s a 20-minute power nap or taking a weekend off to shop or hang out with friends. It allows me to show up, ready to train at my fullest.

Q: What are your top three essentials for your rest days?
A: A cosy bed. Sparkling water and a snack. And a detoxifying face mask.

Q: Confidence plays a significant role in any athlete’s life; what is its role in yours? What are some of the ways your rest days contribute to your confidence?
A: I can rest comfortably knowing I gave my all in training, and I have the confidence to build and benefit from rest. That’s something I had to learn while becoming professional. I also think confidence is a choice, so I am mindful of how I speak to myself, the people I surround myself with, my goals and doing the work at my best.

Q: What has the transition been like for you after the Olympics, and how are you adjusting to life beyond competitive sports?
A: Since I haven’t finished my season yet, I’m still competing at a competitive level. It’s been tough, both mentally and physically, to keep training after a long season, but also so encouraging and freeing to play, knowing what I’m capable of and being completely supported by so many fans around the world.

Q: Tell me about Project Worthy Scholarships. Why is this cause/ organization special to you?
A: Project Worthy started as a scholarship for BIPOC [Black, Indigenous and people of colour] volleyball athletes to play at a club level without the financial burdens. Now, it’s growing into a mentorship program where we run volleyball clinics specially catered to BIPOC athletes so they can learn how to manage the world of an athlete both on and off the court. I believe representation of all stories and cultures are deeply important to the growth of the sport and society.

Q: I know you love the brand Westmore Beauty. Tell me about it. Why is it your go- to brand?
A: Westmore Beauty has always been a go-to brand for me when it comes to my beauty regimen. One of my favourites is the Supreme Cream, which evens out my skin, hydrates it and makes my skin glow without looking overly made-up during matches. I also love their Body Coverage Perfector for body to conceal any imperfections and make me feel like my most confident self on the court. I can always count on the product to stay in place no matter how long I have it on for and how intense and sweaty a match can get.

Q: How do you set new goals for yourself after achieving something as significant as competing in the Olympics?
A: As a student of life, I know there is so much more to learn and grow from similar to the Olympic Games, and I look forward to the journey I’ll be on heading into the next Games and looking to capture that gold medal. I think consistency is such an impressive goal, so that takes a lot of time and work. I think setting goals that will set you up to be a better, more loving, self-aware, capable human being will never get old.

Q: What is one piece of advice related to lifestyle that you wish you had known earlier in your life and career?
A: To listen to your intuition. First, learning how to hear that deep inner wisdom and then trusting to follow it through no matter how different it may seem from what others are saying and journey, because everyone’s journey is so unique.

Q: Who or what inspires you the most in your athletic journey, and how has that influenced your approach to both sports and life?
A: I’m inspired by Serena and Venus Williams’s story. I can relate to their beginning, coming from a low-income neighbourhood, without the background or access to the sport until later. So, I’m inspired by their impact and force in the sport that was traditionally reserved for a certain culture and how they have undeniably become the best, overcoming race, gender or any limitations. Of course, I also love that they’ve become businesswomen and have such an interest in fashion, like I do!

Q: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the next few years, both in sport and outside of it?
A: I’m looking forward to training and qualifying for the LA 2028 Olympic Games with my teammate, Melissa. Outside of sports, I’d love to buy my dream car, a vintage Bronco, and, more importantly, spend quality time with my friends and family and some epic spa days.

@bvuilleumier