Meet the Team
At Rise Yoga School, our lead trainers are more than instructors, they’re passionate, experienced mentors
dedicated to guiding you on your yoga and wellness journey. With years of practice, deep knowledge and
heartfelt commitment, they bring both inspiration and expertise to every training. Get to know the
dedicated professionals who shape our programs and uplift our vibrant community.
Paul Fricano – Owner/Lead Trainer
With 20 years in the fitness and wellness industry, Paul has dedicated his career to helping others improve their health, strength and mindfulness. His passion for health and fitness led him to open iFIT Personal Training in 2004, where he supported clients in reaching their goals through personal training and group fitness classes. In 2007, he co-founded a large-scale gym in Mississauga, Ontario, further expanding his impact in the fitness world.
Ultimately, Paul’s love for yoga guided him to earn his E-RYT 500 certification and transition his focus toward teaching and mentoring others through the practice of yoga.
For the past six years, Paul has been leading students to become certified yoga teachers, combining his deep knowledge of anatomy, alignment, and functional movement with a trauma-informed, heart-centred approach to teaching.
As Owner and Lead Trainer of Rise Yoga School, Paul brings a unique blend of strength, mindfulness and real-world experience to his trainings, empowering future yoga teachers to grow both personally and professionally.
Certifications & Accreditations:
- E-RYT 500 – Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher
- YACEP – Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider
- Certified Canfitpro Fitness Instructor Specialist
- 100-Hour Holistic Whole Body Health Certification
- 100-Hour Warriors & Trauma Sensitive Certification
- 100-Hour Athletes Certification
- First & Second Degree Reiki in Usui
Sandi Call – Lead Trainer
With over 20 years of experience in yoga, spin and group fitness, Sandi Call brings extensive expertise in movement, strength, and functional training. Her deep understanding of human anatomy and biomechanics makes her an invaluable part of the Rise Yoga School team, ensuring that students learn safe, effective movement patterns that enhance both strength and flexibility.
Sandi has spent more than two decades not only teaching classes but also training others to become certified yoga teachers themselves through her past work with another yoga school. This experience has shaped her into a knowledgeable and supportive mentor, deeply committed to the professional development of new teachers.
Certifications & Accreditations:
- E-RYT 500 – Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher
- YACEP – Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider
- AFAA Functional Strength Conditioning Fit
- Spin Certified
- Anatomy Specialist
Tom Simota – Trainer
With over 20 years of experience in yoga, energy work, and holistic well-being, Tom serves as a Holistic Wellness Guide dedicated to supporting individuals on every level—physical, energetic, emotional, mental, intuitive, and spiritual. Guided by his personal mantra, “I am a Guiding Light, bringing joy to Humanity,” Tom is passionate about helping people cultivate deep self-connection that empowers greater self-regulation and inner harmony.
Tom is especially fascinated by Subtle Body work and brings a deep understanding to those seeking clarity around the how’s and why’s of the 8 Limbs of Yoga. A Reiki Master-Teacher in the Usui tradition since 2002 and an active PSYCH-K® Facilitator, he continues to expand his studies in Esoteric Healing and Flowtrition. Tom holds a Master of Science (MS) in Education, an Honorary Doctor of Divinity (DD), and is also a dedicated Feng Shui enthusiast.
Certifications & Accreditations:
- E-RYT 200/500 – Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher
- YACEP – Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider
- 100-Hour Active Adults, Athletes, Brian Health, Holistic Whole Body, Mind Body Recovery Coaching, Studio Fitness, Subtle Body, Warrior Kids, Wellness, Women’s Mind/Body Health Certifications.
- 140-Hour Warrior & Trauma Sensitive Certification
- Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy Fundamentals
- Laughter Yoga Leader
- Essential Oil Practitioner
- Yoga Life Coach
Bernadette Feakes – Trainer
Bernadette is an experienced yoga educator with over 700 hours of training and nearly a decade of teaching. Since beginning her instructor journey in 2016, she has been dedicated to accessible movement, trauma-informed care, and inclusive community spaces.
An E-RYT 500, YACEP, Reiki Master, and sound healer, Bernadette blends evidence-informed movement with energetic modalities. She holds certifications in Accessible Yoga and Yoga for Women’s Health, offering practices that welcome students of all shapes, sizes, identities, and abilities.
Beyond the studio, she has raised thousands for animal rescues through yoga fundraisers, reflecting her commitment to compassion and service. As a teacher trainer with Rise Yoga School, Bernadette is honoured to support new teachers and contribute to an environment grounded in inclusivity, integrity, and heart-centred teaching.
Certifications & Accreditations:
- E-RYT 500 – Advanced Registered Yoga Teacher
- YACEP – Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider
- 100-Hour Subtle Body and Women’s Mind/Body Health Certifications
- Zumba & Zumba Gold Certified
- Aqua Zumba Certified
- Zumba Core Certified
- Kelani Certified
- Reiki Master
Empowering Your Wellness Journey
At Rise Yoga School, we understand that a yoga journey is more than just mastering poses—it’s a path toward balance, resilience, and inner growth. Rooted in the principles of strength, flexibility, mindfulness, and energy alignment, our teachings are designed to support your evolution both on and off the mat.
Along with our YTT we offer live online classes, on-demand sessions, Reiki, and Thai Energy Healing, we offer a holistic learning environment where you can deepen your practice, reconnect with yourself, and grow at your own pace. Whether you’re just beginning or continuing your path, we’re here to guide and empower your journey toward lasting well-being.
Your Path to a Healthier, Happier Life
Wellness isn’t about restriction or perfection—it’s about finding a sustainable, fulfilling lifestyle that works for you. We help you integrate movement, mindfulness, and nutrition into your daily routine, guiding you toward a balanced life. By focusing on both your physical and mental well-being, we empower you to make choices that nurture your body and mind.
Move with Passion, Live with Purpose
True wellness is about more than just exercise—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that fuels your passions and helps you feel your best. Our yoga programs are designed to enhance your energy, build resilience, and create lasting positive change in all aspects of life, from career and relationships to self-care and creativity. When you prioritize your well-being, you unlock your full potential—allowing you to move, live, and grow with purpose.
Join us today and take the first step toward a stronger, more balanced you!
