The NAFC team of instructors has a diverse knowledge base with expertise in cultural connection, exercise science & a wide range of movement training philosophies.
Brian Laban [Hopi/Tewa]
Director of Culture & Education – Lead Instructor
Brian Laban’s unique background combines traditional fitness with the martial arts. He is a National Impact Award winner for his efforts in motivating Native American people to live active, healthy lifestyles. His achievements include serving as martial arts coach for the North American Indigenous Games. Brian received his education at Westminster College, Northern Arizona University, and Yong in University (in Korea). He also earned certification as a personal trainer by the Cooper Institute.
Danielle Grey [Dakota/Hidatsa]
Group Fitness – Instructor
Danielle holds multiple fitness trainer certifications and works as the project coordinator for the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Diabetes Program. She has earned a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education. Danielle enjoys helping her clients with diabetes & prediabetes through physical activity, fitness classes & healthy living education.
Dwight Sandvold
Endurance Exercise – Lead Instructor
Dwight has 30 years experience as a fitness professional with college degrees in education & athletic training. He is owner of F.A.S.T. Training Center in Wisconsin. Dwight has earned certifications as a coach in strength & conditioning and track & field. He is an accomplished endurance athlete having qualified & competed in the Boston Marathon & Ironman World Championships.
Snow Josytewa [Hopi]
Elder & Youth Fitness – Lead Instructor
Snow is passionate about teaching Native children, early childhood through high school, how to develop healthy habits that they can carry into adulthood. As an NAFC instructor, Snow specializes in teaching fitness concepts for youth and also elders. She excels at bringing culture into learning. Snow ran cross country for Hopi High State Championship team & received numerous individual awards. Snow still enjoys running as well as weightlifting and martial arts.
John A. Blievernicht
Executive Director – Lead Instructor
John is a leading expert in the sports fitness training industry. His expertise has been utilized by Olympians, professional athletes & elite sports companies like Nike. John’s work has been recognized with leadership awards from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the National Strength & Conditioning Association and the USA Community Olympic Development Program. He has a Master’s degree in education emphasizing exercise science studies.
Courtney Osceola [Seminole]
Functional Exercise – Instructor
Courtney is a member of the Bird Clan from the Seminole Tribe of Florida where she provides services as a fitness specialist. Her parents inspired her to “learn and travel as much as you can because you have to give back to your people”. Playing basketball at a young age introduced Courtney to fitness. She has used those experiences to positively impact youth as she’s created the Unconquered boy’s basketball team, developed a basketball tournament & provided numerous sports training clinics.
Erik Kakuska [Zuni Pueblo]
Functional Exercise – Instructor
Erik works for the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board. He supports the 43 Tribes in the Pacific Northwest by teaching the importance of diabetes prevention through exercise and data. His college degree is from the University of New Mexico where he ran track & field.
