Rising Stars: Meet Stefhani Libreros of Kansas City, MO

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stefhani Libreros

Hi Stefhani, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a proud Colombian woman. I grew up in a small town where my journey in the world of sports began. My parents, in their quest to keep a teenage me engaged, discovered the perfect spot at the city’s sports club, where I dabbled in sports such as athletics and soccer. This environment helped me cultivate discipline, learn the value of teamwork, and persist in pursuing my dreams. Regrettably, I didn’t possess the talent and passion to pursue these skills professionally. For me, it remained a place for recreation. Later on, I joined a group of city runners, a discipline I still enjoy. I realized that I love the workout, relishing how my body feels afterward, and most importantly, how running frees my mind with each step, enabling me to make better decisions and reduce the stress of everyday life.

A couple of years back, I relocated to a larger city to pursue my journalism studies at university. Adapting to this change was tough as the distances were greater, and I didn’t know many people. I’ve always been a runner, but in this new setting, I decided to sign up at a regular gym to explore something new.
This decision led me to delve into the realms of anatomy, physiognomy, nutrition, and various exercise routines tailored for different goals. Initially, I found the process enjoyable, and the physical changes kept me motivated. However, I still felt like I hadn’t quite found my ideal fitness routine.
Over the next three years, I dabbled in various training disciplines, including aerobic, strength, functional, HIIT, and power training. Each one brought new insights and challenges, but I was constantly seeking the right balance to suit my lifestyle.

After discovering my passion for functional training, I delved into studying and completed several related courses. My hands-on experience has been the most compelling evidence of my capabilities as a personal trainer. In Colombia, I virtually trained numerous individuals during the pandemic and established my personal brand, Tefha Libreros. Upon arriving in the United States in 2023 through a cultural exchange, I remained committed to pursuing my personal project. Currently in Kansas City, I am launching outdoor group classes tailored specifically for women. My exercise method is purposeful, with each routine incorporating a motivational message intended to equip us for our daily lives. As a woman, I aim to empower other women to reach their goals and address the unique challenges we face.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I often see myself as a dreamer, with plans and goals for a life that I haven’t yet achieved. It hasn’t been an easy journey, especially with so many people focused on personal development and workout. However, my biggest challenge has been with myself. Balancing study and work has often pushed this dream to the back burner, causing me to miss out on opportunities and time. That’s why every day I remind myself that I’ve found my purpose and need to work towards it consistently.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have a background in journalism and spent a few years working in the audiovisual entertainment industry in Colombia. However, my true passion lies in fitness. That’s why I made the decision to shift my career towards becoming a personal trainer a couple of years ago.

Combining my professional skills with my love for fitness has been incredibly fulfilling. Leveraging social media, public speaking, and content creation, I’ve been able to promote my brands, Tefha Libreros and X Wellness, on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Through these channels, I’ve been able to build a community of women who are passionate about self-care.

For me, wellness is not just a service – it’s my passion. Helping others through exercise is incredibly rewarding. One of the most memorable moments in my journey was in New Orleans. I had the opportunity to teach in-person classes to a group of seniors. Despite feeling nervous due to lack of experience in that specific area, I stepped in to cover a classmate’s shift. It turned out to be my first in-person group class, and I was pleasantly surprised by the positive energy and gratitude from the participants. By the end of the class, I received great feedback and became their trainer for the next 6 months, until my move to Kansas City.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the gym, club, and recreational center industry faced significant challenges due to the in-person nature of their operations. However, for personal trainers, it presented an opportunity. Personally, the pandemic motivated me to fully commit to the fitness industry. Leveraging social media and the increased online presence of people, I began uploading videos, conducting live sessions, and promoting my personal training services.

This proactive approach led to acquiring my initial clients. I provided virtual group and individual classes to both Colombian and international clients. It turned out to be a fruitful period in terms of work opportunities.

Overcome the adversity and the capacity to adapt to new situations is one of my superpower.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tefha_wellness/profilecard/?igsh=ZWozYXlrM21wanVh
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdwsF65ox6U3W_vkFplqzZw
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tefha_wellness?_t=8qjdbhK00tv&_r=1