Skip to content

Sole Girls founder honoured by DNV

North Vancouver's Ashley Wiles has been recognized for her efforts to positively change the lives of young girls in the community. On Jan.

North Vancouver's Ashley Wiles has been recognized for her efforts to positively change the lives of young girls in the community.

On Jan. 6, Wiles received the District of North Vancouver's Certificate of Appreciation, which is presented to an individual or organization in acknowledgement of their commitment and contribution towards the district.

Wiles is the founder of Sole Girls, an organization that gives girls ages eight to 12 the opportunity to build confidence and positive body image through physical activity in a noncompetitive, supportive environment. Participants go through eight weeks of running training, culminating in a fivekilometre fun run. Over the course of the program, the young girls learn about goal setting, healthy living habits, and how to deal with peer challenges, media and self-doubt.

Wiles, a trained life coach and avid runner herself, founded Sole Girls as a way to reach girls when they are at a critical point in their lives, navigating tweenhood and facing demanding challenges.

North Vancouver District Mayor Richard Walton presented Wiles with the certificate at a district council meeting.

"By exposing our youth to strong role models, and by providing positive influence and guidance, she exemplifies the core values and spirit of our community," Walton said in a press release.

This is the first of several Civic Recognition awards that will be presented over the coming months.