Emma Bulawka

Hi! My name is Emma Bulawka. I am currently 18 years old and a Canadian national level elite athlete in the sport of figure skating. I reside with my family in beautiful Kelowna where I have lived and trained for the past seven years.

Let’s go back to the beginning and where it all started...

I stepped into skates for the first time when I was 6 years old. I have three siblings who also are elite athletes. Growing up, I was fortunate enough to have parents who loved sports and encouraged us to pursue them if we truly had a passion and internal drive for it. They signed us up for every single sport you can think of, from team sports such as soccer to individual sports such as gymnastics. I have two brothers who play hockey now, and one younger sister who figure skates as well. It just so happened that all four of us found our true passion on the ice in the form of figure skating and hockey. Must be the Canadian in us!

My parents were both very athletic, but did not have the support to pursue high-level sports. I do not think they knew what they were signing up for, having four kids in high level sports, but what I can tell you is they never stopped believing in us. They have always been there for us from the start. Through the highs and the lows. And for that I am forever thankful. Thank you, mom and dad!

Just recently, I started my own podcast, Wide Open Spaces. I started this podcast with the intention to open up a conversation around performance, mental health and body image in elite sports. I also share my passion and love for figure skating and all the stories and experiences I have along the way. With many more to come!

I strongly believe that every athlete has a story that can inspire so many people, athlete or not. I wanted to create an open space to talk about struggles and how to overcome them. And to all the people listening, I want to get the message across that it is okay to fall apart. You are not alone. Your vulnerability is your strength.

I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to have the Athlete Spotlight on the Winning Within Foundation. I am proud to be part of an incredible movement created by the most inspiring women. Thank you for taking the time to read this!

- Emma Bulawka