Name: Karla Harapiak
Age: 53
City: Calgary, Alberta

Why did you join the project: At the age of 52, I had just finished my Masters of Counselling degree and thought “what better way to mark the occasion than a professional photo shoot, including hair and make-up, celebrating “50 over 50”!! I would use the portrait for my new counselling website and each time I looked at it, I would remember how far I’ve come in my 50-plus years!

How did you feel about your portrait session: I loved it! It was so much fun!! My only regret is that I didn’t allow myself to just enjoy the moment right from the start! I thought too much about being in “model mode” but Leigha was amazing at making me feel comfortable and fabulous in front of the camera.

How do you feel about this current chapter of your life: I feel like I’m starting a new whole chapter with amazing new opportunities and so many new memories to make!! “50” feels fantastic! I'm in a place where I know myself better, where I’ve grown and changed and become a better version of myself because all of the life experiences that I have had over the last 5 decades!! I’m comfortable in my own skin and I love it!

What would you tell your younger self: Karla, you are amazing! You will encounter some challenges in the future but you will get through them with grace and courage. Let those experiences help you to grow. Don’t allow yourself to become a bitterfly… you were born to be a butterfly… strong, resilient and colourful!

Finish this sentence ... If I had to pick one word to describe how I try to live my life it would be….I would have to say Joyfully!