VLAD BORZA

VLAD BORZA grew up in Romania, playing outside any chance he had. Immigrating to southern Canada's industrial corridor in the mid 90's, he always sought refuge and adventure in the outdoors. After studying biology in college, he became a middle & high school teacher in Grand Rapids, but found himself traveling up the coast nearly every weekend to take in the Lake. He dreamt of finding a way to live up here. In 2019, Vlad was granted a 1-year sabbatical to study the ecology of a remote Island in Northern Lake Michigan; it was a dream come true. 6 years later, he still serves as the Island's year-round caretaker. In his free time, Vlad has a deep passion for sauna and created the West Michigan Sauna Club in 2015 to help people connect to Michigan's outdoors in every season. He also owns ⁠Sleeping Bear Saunas⁠ in Traverse City and rents portable sauna tents that can enhance a beachside experience. 

“I am passionate about seeing the magic thats right in front of me and inspiring others to see and feel it too. EXPAND is a storytelling event featuring individuals who find fulfillment from the inside out, wherever they are. How they came to find the little things that make them come alive and how they continue to expand their being from right here,. Mindful, aware, present, grateful. Never arriving, always expanding.” - Chelsea Bay