An interview with Sheryl Bowhay, a dedicated Riverbend community member
By Terra Cook
I recently had the pleasure of meeting with Sheryl Bowhay, a long-time resident of Riverbend and dedicated volunteer for the Riverbend Community League. For those who may know Sheryl, you may be surprised by the number of ways she has contributed to our community over the years and for those who don’t know Sheryl, I’m very pleased to introduce you to her!
Q: How did you become involved in the Riverbend Community League?
A: “I became involved shortly after moving to Edmonton with my husband and baby daughter in 2003. We attended an event where I happened to meet Sue Trigg who was, and still is, a dedicated volunteer in our community. Sue told me that the community league was looking for help organizing and forming a committee for the Ramsey Park Playground redevelopment. It felt like the perfect opportunity to get involved and I was excited to contribute to my new community.”
Q: How did you rally others for the playground redevelopment project?
A: “Once I had made some connections in the neighborhood, which I developed mostly through Peanut Butter & Jam, our local parent and tot playgroup, I decided to host a get-together. I invited everyone I’d recently met and asked them to join the playground redevelopment committee. From there, we formed a strong nucleus of individuals who helped with fundraising, planning, designing and building the playground.”
Q: What was the experience of actually building the playground like?
A: “It was intense, to say the least! This playground was the last one that was actually built by volunteers, which meant we were out there with wrenches, hammers, drills, securing the bobcats and pouring concrete. It was hard work but incredibly rewarding. In the moment, there were times when we thought, ‘Are we ever going to get this done?’ But when we looked back after it was finished, we were all amazed by what we had accomplished together as a community.”
Q: How did the project impact your sense of community?
A: “The project brought so many people together, and those bonds have lasted. The families who were involved in the build are still incredibly close to me. The playground itself became a destination for everyone in the neighborhood and beyond and it’s something that people of all ages continue to enjoy. I’m proud of both the physical playground itself and the sense of unity it helped create.”
Q: What was your involvement in the Riverbend Community League after the playground project?
A: “Following the playground, I became the Vice President of the Riverbend Community League and then eventually the President. It felt like a natural next step to continue serving and contributing to the growth of our neighborhood.”
Q: You also worked to initiate another significant project, Art in Our Park. Can you tell me more about that?
A: “Art in Our Park is one of the projects I’m most proud of. It was focused on bringing people together through the arts which, in contrast to more tangible projects like the playground, provides a unique opportunity for self-expression and connection. We had a dynamic group, all passionate about showcasing local artists and creating an event that celebrated diversity and community. It was an incredible team effort.”
Q: Can you describe the impact Art in Our Park had on the local community?
A: “What I loved about Art in Our Park was that it brought the arts to people, rather than taking people out of the community to experience the arts. We had local artists showcasing their work right here in Riverbend, and people were able to support them by purchasing art for their homes. It exposed the community to the rich and creative talent right in our own backyard. It was a place for people to feel included, whether they were there to enjoy the art and engage with the artists, listen to music, or simply spend time with family and neighbours.”
Q: It sounds like you really value the community-building aspect of volunteering. What specifically about inclusivity makes it so important to you?
A: “I’m passionate about the inclusive part of volunteering because it’s all about creating opportunities for everyone to be involved and have a sense of belonging. It’s about making sure everyone has a chance to contribute, connect, and be part of something bigger than themselves. When you volunteer, you’re helping foster an environment where people from all walks of life can come together, feel valued and share in the experience of building a community. That inclusivity is at the core of what makes a community strong and vibrant.”
Q: I understand that you work as a freelance music educator. What is that like?
A: “Well, I’m hired to guest conduct various school bands, work as a flute clinician, and serve as an adjudicator at music festivals. It’s a rewarding role because I’m able to help students improve and encourage them to develop their musical talents. For example, I went to Fort McMurray for a music festival, and I was recently in Yellowknife. I also work in many smaller communities which gives me a great variety of experiences.”
Q: You mentioned working with youth orchestras. What role do you play there?
A: ” I’m currently the Past President of the Edmonton Youth Orchestra and I work with developing musicians, focusing on providing them with the opportunity to experience orchestral music. The Edmonton Youth Orchestra offers two levels of training, intermediate and senior, and gives young musicians a chance to play in an ensemble. It’s not about making professional musicians but about giving them access to an incredible musical experience and the confidence that comes with it. I love being part of their musical journey.”
Q: What makes the experience of playing in an orchestra so special for young people?
A: “It’s about exposure, access, and the joy of creating something together as a group. For my own children, being part of these programs helped them understand the importance of music and how it connects us all.”
Q: You’ve been involved with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Winspear Centre for Music. Can you tell me about that?
A: “Yes! I’ve had the honor of being on the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and the Winspear Centre for Music for the past nine years and am Chair of the Winspear Expansion Capital Campaign. This project is truly exciting because we are expanding the Winspear into a community space with classrooms, studios, and gathering areas. The goal is to transition it from a performance venue into a community hub for music. The expansion will allow people from all walks of life to engage with music in a more accessible and inclusive way. People will be able to walk in, explore different programs, and learn about music in ways they never could before. It’s all about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation.”
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your work in the arts or community?
A: “I just want to emphasize that community building doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s about bringing people together who share a passion for making things happen. Whether it’s in music or other areas of life, it’s about collaboration and supporting each other. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with so many dedicated individuals who are passionate about what they do and I’ve learned so much working together with them. Volunteering connects us to community and creates a world of possibility, all at the same time!”
I am very grateful to Sheryl for being my first interview for the Ragg Times – Thank you Sheryl! If you know of someone who has contributed to our community and think their story should be shared, please let me know by writing to raggtimes@riverbendonline.ca.