AFPA Graduate of the Month: Genny Mack, Holistic Nutritionist

AFPA Graduate of the Month: Genny Mack, Holistic Nutritionist

Over the past 26 years, we have certified over 119,000 health, nutrition and fitness professionals. Each month we recognize one of our distinguished graduates who is using what they have learned to inspire others and make a difference.

Meet our graduate for the month of December, Genny Mack AFPA certified holistic nutritionist

How did you originally get into health and fitness?

In 2017, I was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that attacks my kidneys, lungs, skin and joints. I knew there was a way to heal myself and feel better. I started exercising 5x a week and saw a huge improvement in my overall well-being. I decided to become a certified group fitness instructor to share my passion for fitness. Fast forward to 2018, and I was hospitalized for over a month with a severe lupus flare that felt like pneumonia. I knew that just exercise wasn't enough. This led me to explore a holistic lifestyle and I became interested in plant-based eating. It's amazing where life takes you to share your story and serve others.

Which certification did you choose and why did you choose AFPA?

I chose the Holistic Nutrition Certification with AFPA to learn more about food and clean living and to increase my overall well-being. I knew plant-based living was the way to transform my life, create a cleaner environment and inspire others to do the same. I also knew that nutrition was just as important as exercise in making a real impact on a person's life. AFPA met all my criteria as I work full-time as Director of Audit and part-time as COO/Lead Fitness Instructor at GrillzandGranola and was looking for a self-study course. It was perfect for my schedule.

What was your career like before certification?

Before becoming certified, my primary focus was teaching TrapAerobics classes at GrillzandGranola, a fitness company for women of color that provides inclusive and accessible, culturally attuned fitness experiences. It has been a successful pivot to serve the community virtually in the middle of a COVID-19 pandemic.

How is your career now?

Now I have supplemented my fitness wellness services and also offered plant-based coaching with “Gennymackmeals”. I have already seen tremendous growth and engagement! It has been a blessing in disguise since our world migrated to a digital space. I can connect with customers virtually more easily. For example, I share #MeatlessMonday recipe ideas via IG Live for people who prefer more plant-based food. It's about meeting people where they are. I'm one step closer to my dream as an entrepreneur!

What are your favorite parts of your career?

My favorite part of my career is hearing transformation stories from my clients. You'll feel better, lose unwanted weight, eat smarter, and overall feel more confident in achieving your personal goals! The connections are invaluable!

How has becoming certified with AFPA impacted your life?

Becoming a Certified AFPA Holistic Nutritionist has definitely elevated my life! I learned an incredible amount of knowledge that I never knew about eating the foods this wonderful earth has provided for us! Personally, I can also make smarter, more informed decisions about my health when I go to the doctor and share with the community to do the same! Personally, I am confident in improving someone's life.

Do you have any customer success stories you would like to share?

In the last few weeks before completing the certification, I was able to practice plant-based coaching with a new client and she has already felt a difference in just six weeks! She lost several inches from her waist, she sleeps better, eats better, and shares her insights with her parents to help them manage chronic illnesses. It is truly a blessing to be a part of a lifestyle change and a mindset change!

What advice would you give to others thinking about certification?

If you're thinking about it, just do it! It was worth every penny and every late night of studying! I really enjoyed the learning and there were also lots of fun cooking activities and practical exercises to apply the learning. I am more credible in providing coaching and support to people who want to transform their lives into a healthier and happier one.

To connect with Genny, keep following her InstagramFor more information or you can contact them directly atgennymackmeals@gmail.comto learn more.

... more about that in the next part.
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