Two local yoga teachers – Diana Hughes and Kat Fetzer — are putting Bradenton on the map! Both entered the international Yoga Warrior competition and have advanced to the next round. The competition gives yogis the opportunity to share their unique story — and one lucky winner will be featured in a two-page spread in Yoga Journal Magazine! This worldwide recognition and feature in one of the largest yoga publications in the world will be a game-changer for the winner.

Here’s a look at each of our local finalists.

Diana Hughes: 1st in Her Group

Diana Hughes, also known as “Yogi Di,” is certified in Yin Yoga and Trauma Informed Yoga. She believes in the power of the practice to help you heal from past trauma and have a healthier mind, body and soul.

When asked how she would spend the $10,000 cash prize, she said:

“I will create an intimate space for those that want to heal from any trauma they have endured (big or small as ALL trauma is valid) to practice Yoga in a safe, judgment-free environment where they can let down their walls, relax, and let things go. I especially want to focus on 1st Responders and Military, active and vets, offering mostly Yin classes and being able to allow those that may not have the means to come to their mat at no cost.”

You can see Diana’s full entry and cast a vote for her by clicking the button below.

Kat Fetzer: 2nd in Her Group

Kat Fetzer, owner of “The Yoga Journey with Kat,” found her yoga practice at a time when she needed it most. When asked about what yoga means to her, she said:

“Before yoga I was lost. I was drowning. Suffering from loss and postpartum depression put me in a really scary place. When I started my practice, I found purpose in life again. One that I had to share and use to help others who felt lost in their own skin. To me yoga gave me Life again. It’s a gift that changed every fiber of my being. And a gift I will never take for granted!”

If she wins the cash prize, Kat plans to use it to further her education, starting with completing her 500-hour yoga teacher training. You can see Kat’s full entry and cast your votes for her by clicking the button below.

Show Your Support Today!

Do you want to help put Bradenton on the map? Cast your votes for our local residents and give them a chance to share their stories on an international platform.

The second round of voting is underway now. This will narrow the group from the Top 15 to the Top 10. From there, each group is narrowed down to the Top 5, then votes will determine the group winners, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and then, the finals. Voting will continue through April 29th, when the final winner is determined.

You can vote for free once per day, and it’s also possible to purchase additional “Warrior Votes.” A portion of the money raised from purchased votes goes to support the Veteran’s Yoga Project. If you have a minute to spare, consider taking a moment to #SupportLocal and help these amazing ladies pursue their dreams.