Kayla Erlandson

Since arriving in Fort McMurray in 2016, Kayla Erlandson has been a driving force in the local arts and events scene, using her creative energy and leadership to make a lasting impact. Originally from Edmonton, Kayla moved to the region with her husband, who had accepted a job in Fort McMurray. Since then, she’s not only built a career that allows her to explore her passion for the arts but has also become an essential part of the community.

With a diverse educational background that includes studies in stage management at the University of Alberta and ongoing coursework in Arts and Cultural Management at MacEwan University, Kayla brings a rich blend of creativity, organization, and passion to her current roles. As the Events Supervisor for Athabasca Tribal Council and a dance instructor at Uptown Dance, she thrives on the unpredictability and excitement that comes with each new event and artistic endeavour. “The best part of being a part of arts education and events is that even when you’ve planned all the elements, something will come along to show a new way or a new source of inspiration,” she says.

Beyond her professional roles, Kayla is a committed volunteer and community organizer. As the founder and president of the Fort McMurray Dance Association, she has spearheaded the creation of the Wood Buffalo Dance Showcase, a regional platform for dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Her efforts also brought back the much-loved Community Registration Day in 2023, helping families and individuals connect with local organizations.

Despite her busy schedule, Kayla remains deeply rooted in her family and personal values. Growing up in a blue-collar home, she was sheltered from much of the world’s diversity and challenges, but as she grew older, she realized that there was much more to experience—and that she had a role to play in making a difference. “I work hard now to show my daughters that you need to not only make a difference in your own life but in those around you,” Kayla says. Her drive to break free from preconceived notions and tackle the “it can’t be done” mentality has been a guiding force in her life.

A turning point came in 2022 when Kayla’s grandmother passed away, prompting her to reevaluate her approach to life. She decided to move her bucket list to her “to-do list,” determined to complete every goal she had set for herself. Her husband, a constant source of support, has been her biggest cheerleader, encouraging her to achieve both personally and professionally. Together, they have built a life in Fort McMurray that reflects their shared commitment to community involvement, growth, and family.

Kayla’s passion for the arts and her belief in their transformative power have been profoundly shaped by her active role as company manager for local theatre company Swamp Rat Experience. As part of a two-person management team, she has had a direct influence on much of the company’s work. A pivotal moment came during a friend’s performance in one of their productions, which rekindled her love for the arts and reaffirmed her dedication to the theatre’s mission. Inspired by the success of this small, grassroots company, Kayla became even more committed to enriching the community’s cultural life, taking on more artistic projects than ever before.

Looking ahead, Kayla is excited about several major regional projects she is involved in, all of which promise to have a lasting impact on the community. She is also committed to her own professional development, always eager to learn new skills that will enhance her work. “I’m really excited for some pretty large development projects coming my way,” she says, noting that her dedication to continuous learning will only help her bring even more to these initiatives.

Kayla also recognizes the challenges facing Fort McMurray, particularly the difficulties local businesses face in competing with online shopping and the isolation of the region. She believes that addressing these issues will require a multi-industry, community-driven approach, where financial backers, policymakers, and community leaders work together to make the region more appealing to residents and newcomers alike.

As she looks to the future, Kayla is committed to continuing her work in the arts and events, fostering growth, and creating meaningful projects that will benefit Fort McMurray for years to come. Along with her husband and daughters, she’s invested in the community and eager to see the growth they’re a part of come to fruition. “We’re committed to staying here for a long time,” she says, excited for what lies ahead.

Kayla Erlandson’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and community engagement, and she’s just getting started.

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