After the ACC: The Quiet Work of Becoming a Coach
February 19, 2026
Published February 19, 2026

Director Spotlight Series: Meet the Leaders Behind ICF Calgary

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Introduction

At ICF Calgary, our strength comes from the passionate leaders who guide, support, and inspire our coaching community. In this edition of our Director Spotlight Series, we’re excited to introduce two incredible board members: Peggy Mann and Agnes Lo.

Their stories reflect the heart of coaching — growth, transformation, and a deep commitment to empowering others.

What Inspired Peggy to Become a Coach

Peggy’s coaching journey began with a powerful personal experience.

“I believe in coaching as a powerful support for leaders — because it’s been that for me. My first coaching experience planted the seed for becoming a coach myself, and the second experience made it impossible to ignore. One morning I simply thought, ‘Why am I not doing this?’ and enrolled at Royal Roads that same week. Helping people grow has always been my favourite part of leadership, and coaching allows me to honour their courage, strength, and growth even more.”

Her story highlights something many coaches share — coaching isn’t just a profession; it’s a calling born from transformation.

Fun Fact About Peggy

Peggy’s discipline and resilience started early:

She grew up in the gym — literally! As a gymnast, she trained nearly 20 hours per week throughout her youth.

That commitment to growth and perseverance continues to shape her coaching philosophy today.

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What Inspired Agnes to Become a Coach

Agnes’s path to coaching grew from a lifelong dedication to empowering others.

“My career has always centered on empowering people, and becoming a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach deepened that purpose. Strengths coaching aligned naturally with ICF’s philosophy of helping individuals uncover their potential.
Over time, I found my passion supporting leaders through career transitions. Learning from master coaches transformed me, and that inner shift inspired me to pursue coaching as my path to meaningful impact.”

Her journey reflects the power of strengths-based coaching and lifelong learning.

Fun Fact About Agnes

Agnes is an adventurer at heart!

She traveled over 17,000 km across Canada by camper with her family — including their exotic shorthair cat — exploring all 10 provinces during a nearly three-month journey.

Talk about embracing curiosity and discovery — core coaching values in action.

Celebrating the People Behind Our Community

Our directors bring diverse experiences, passions, and stories that shape the vibrant coaching community here in Calgary.

Their journeys remind us that coaching is not just about skills — it’s about purpose, connection, and a commitment to helping others thrive.

Stay tuned for more stories in our Director Spotlight Series as we continue to highlight the incredible leaders who make ICF Calgary such a dynamic and supportive community.

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