ESTEVAN — Three local women are nominees for the 2025 Innovative Leadership Award, presented by Southern Plains Co-op. The award recognizes individuals who have created or implemented innovative programs, practices, partnerships or activities that have significantly improved the lives of women or their communities. Nominees must have at least three years in business and demonstrate evidence of meaningful change.
This year’s finalists are Cea Anna Kerr, Kamri Olfert and Elicia Krupka.
(Introductions are based on submitted nominations)
Cea Anna Kerr
Kerr is a retired SaskPower employee who served as a purchasing agent for 22 years. In 2017, she co-founded Studio C 24 Hour Fitness, bringing her passion for health and wellness to the Estevan community as a successful entrepreneur and fitness leader.
Kerr holds the distinction of being Saskatchewan’s first International Fitness and Bodybuilding (IFBB) Federation Professional Athlete. Over her competitive career, she has taken the stage at 30 IFBB pro shows, achieving ten top-10 finishes and five top-5 placements. She is also Saskatchewan’s first and only athlete to win a pro show in women’s physique and compete at the Mr. Olympia — the most prestigious event in bodybuilding. Earlier in her career, she appeared in the 1997 and 1998 Fitness America Pageants, broadcast on ESPN.
Beyond fitness, Kerr is passionate about cycling, gardening and animal rescue. She is a strong advocate for women’s rights and lives her life guided by faith, determination and a deep desire to inspire others.
Kamri Olfert
Born and raised in Estevan, Olfert is deeply rooted in the community she now serves as a business owner. Her early life was shaped by resilience and service, particularly after her father was diagnosed with cancer. Hunting, camping, volunteering and hockey were key parts of her upbringing, and she took on a leadership role in her final years as a player.
After graduating from ECS with a 96 per cent average, Olfert moved to Calgary for further education. Just a month after completing her studies, she launched Pureskin by Kam, following in the footsteps of the strong female entrepreneurs in her family. She recently marked her business’s second anniversary.
Elicia Krupka
Krupka is the co-owner of The Black Grasshopper in Estevan — a popular restaurant known for its exceptional service, warm atmosphere and community involvement. After homeschooling her children, Krupka re-entered the workforce as a server, quickly becoming known for her energy and kindness.
Since purchasing the Grasshopper with her husband, she has created a workplace culture rooted in support, excellence and care. Whether behind the bar, in the kitchen or running a packed community event, Krupka leads by example. Under her leadership, the restaurant has become a hub for connection, a training ground for young professionals and a place where everyone feels like they belong.
The 2025 Southeast Women of Distinction Awards luncheon will take place May 2 at the Power Dodge Curling Centre.
