The People behind the scenes
Meet the Team
The Taste of Canmore is proudly hosted by The Co+Kitchen team.
Drawing from a charcuterie board of skills and experiences, Yuka and Ed find ever evolving ways to bring their shared passion for food and community to life.
Read on to learn more about their journeys.
Yuka
Founder & CEO
Yuka is a vibrant presence in the Bow Valley’s food scene, known for her adventurous spirit in the kitchen and her dedication to community building. Originally from Japan, Yuka has made the stunning Bow Valley her home, where she combines her deep culinary roots with a love for local ingredients.
As a workshop instructor, Yuka brings a playful and experimental approach to cooking. Her classes are more than just lessons—they’re opportunities to explore new flavors and techniques in a supportive and engaging environment. With a background in running a catering business and teaching cooking classes, Yuka is skilled at making complex culinary concepts accessible and enjoyable.
Currently, Yuka is focused on creating a purpose-built commercial kitchen designed to support and showcase local food production. This project reflects her commitment to nurturing a diverse and dynamic food movement within the community, providing a space where local chefs and food enthusiasts can collaborate and innovate.
Yuka’s blend of culinary expertise, community spirit, and personal warmth makes her a beloved figure in the Bow Valley, where she continues to inspire and connect people through the joy of food.
Ed
Founder & Master of Organizing
Ed is Yuka’s life and business partner of 25 years, and together they run The Co+Kitchen. His role as the master organizer is vital to the success of their venture. Ed’s commitment to The Co+Kitchen and its members highlights his passion for locally produced food and community development.
Outside of The Co+Kitchen, Ed is deeply involved in advancing Canada’s energy transition. He works on developing clean energy projects through his consultancy, Whit & Ham, and shares his insights on the Energy vs Climate podcast. His extensive background as the former executive director of the Pembina Institute further emphasizes his dedication to sustainable energy solutions.
Like Yuka, Ed is a proud parent to their two kids. He also has a passion for outdoor activities, particularly whitewater paddle boarding, which he enjoys alongside his family and other outdoor pursuits.