Meet Our Trainers

We’re a woman-owned company that believes in strengthening the body and mind! We are committed to educating our clients during the process. We also believe that trainers should make a real liveable wage, so we rent space to like-minded trainers!

Well hello there!

Hi, I’m Yasmeen, the owner of EmpowerFit and a busy mama of two very active girls.

My fitness journey is a sordid one. It began as a teenager when I joined a women-exclusive gym with my older sister. Like many teen girls, I believed I was overweight, out of shape, and wanted to be 90s model skinny.  In college and grad school, I was in a relentless pursuit of the lean aesthetic. I pushed my body through ups and downs with an unhealthy body image, often cycling through extreme diet and exercise routines. My metabolism, body, and mind were on a rough rollercoaster ride. The older I became and the more I explored my own mental health, I knew that this was not a sustainable lifestyle.

Soon after the post-partum phase of my firstborn, I focused on a mindset change. I did not want my daughter to grow up with the same toxic messages I had. I needed to be a better role model for her. After leaving the mental health therapy world, I decided to dip my feet into group fitness. I discovered that not only was I good at motivating others to work out, I also had an amazing opportunity to combine my passions for mental and physical health! I pursued the gold standard in personal training education at The National Personal Training Institute. In addition to earning my diploma, I went on to earn my NASM certification. After 10 years in the fitness industry, I am continuously learning more from my own life experiences and from my diverse clientele.      


My approach to fitness is guided by my own experience and the countless people who have traditionally felt left out in the fitness world. I am motivated to empower others to confidently learn how to lift weights and exercise in a way that feels right for their bodies. I believe that there is a fitness approach for every body out there. I understand the need to find the balance between the demands of everyday life and self care. Together, we will work to empower, embolden, and embrace your new self. 

Education:
Masters in Forensic Psychology (The Professional School of Psychology)
BA in Psychology

Credentials:
Personal Training Diploma (National Personal Training Institute) National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certification

Certifications:
CPR/AED/FIRST AID

Hi, I’m Lizzy! A Chicago based personal trainer.

Growing up, I was the one whose parents always needed to involve me in various activities to help channel my energy. What began as a strategy to wear me out blossomed into a true passion for physical activity and its numerous benefits. After being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, I discovered that engaging in these activities was a powerful way to calm my mind and allow me to focus on the task at hand.

My enduring passion for physical fitness and its myriad of benefits has been a constant in my life, and I am eager to share that enthusiasm with others! After earning my degree in Public Health Studies, I spent two years working as a rehabilitation aide in physical therapy clinics. This experience allowed me to engage with diverse populations and work closely with individuals throughout their healing journeys. It also highlighted the significance of preventive care along with the proactive steps we can take to live healthy and fulfilling lives. Following my time in clinics, I decided to elevate my dedication to health and fitness by becoming an NASM Certified Personal Trainer with an additional certification in passive stretching (PNF technique). I have experience as a group fitness coach and personal trainer both online and in person. I am dedicated to working alongside my clients every step of the way and creating a program that works best for you! I believe that every body is unique and deserves a personalized approach to enhance body awareness and promote overall well-being.

Education: BS in Public Health Studies: Pre-Clinical Health Science

Credentials: National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certification, Pain-Free Performance Specialist (PPSC) Certified

Certifications: CPR/AED/FIRST AID, Applied Stretching Theory and Practice,


MEET SENSEI NOLYS CABELLO

Sensei Nolys Cabello has over 35 years of experience as a karate practitioner, 25 years of which he gained experience teaching in Venezuela, Orlando, and Chicago. Sensei Nolys acted as coach of the Venezuelan Federation of Karate Do for 2 years, coach of the national team of the SKIF Kodokai of Venezuela for 7 years, and was also a Pan American Karate Federation (PKF) referee for 3 years. He is the owner of Evolution Training Center.

Sensei Nolysoffers small group children and adult karate classes at Empowerfit, while he finds a home for Evolution.


Hi, I’m Emma—a personal trainer and group fitness coach based on Chicago’s North Side. My training philosophy is rooted in body neutrality, disability justice, and a commitment to creating queer- and trans-affirming fitness spaces. I meet clients where they are, blending accessibility with intensity so you can reach your goals in a way that works for your body and your life.

My Background

Movement has been part of my life for as long as I can remember—from playing soccer as a kid, to weightlifting in high school, to exploring running and martial arts as an adult. As a queer and nonbinary person navigating stereotypes and gender norms, I’ve found movement to be both grounding and deeply connective, to myself and others.

I also know what it’s like to navigate setbacks. Years of contact sports brought injuries including concussions, an ACL tear, and an Achilles rupture. These experiences—and the countless hours spent in physical therapy—sparked my interest in helping others recover and rebuild. I began my career as a rehab aide in a physical therapy clinic, and soon realized how much I loved helping people retrain both mind and muscle. That led me to earn my NASM Personal Trainer certification and apprentice at Han Training.


In 2022, three successive COVID-19 infections forced me to rethink my relationship with exercise. Months away from my usual routines challenged me to prioritize long-term health over short-term milestones, and to integrate lessons from disability justice advocates into my work. I learned firsthand the importance of balancing ambition with care—something I bring to every client relationship.


Why I Coach

For me, training is a collaboration. You bring your goals and experiences; I bring guidance, structure, and encouragement. Together, we’ll find ways to make movement supportive and sustainable. 


Education

  • BA in Cognitive Science

  • MA in Public Policy

Credentials

  • Certified Personal Trainer, NASM CPT

Certifications

  • CPR / AED / First Aid