kamloops chamber of commerce business excellence awards ... · kamloops chamber of commerce...
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Kamloops Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards
Excel Personnel | Business Person of the Year
Selection Committee Package
Contents Nominee 1: Danielle Fauteux | All by Design .............................................................................................. 3
Nominee 2: Sheryl Corrigal-Snider | Beautiful U ......................................................................................... 4
Nominee 3: Brandy Maddison | Brandy Maddison Event Planning & Design ............................................. 5
Nominee 4: Tom Broad | Broad Spectrum Pest Solutions ............................................................................ 7
Nominee 5: Alana Krenz | Changes Hair Studio .......................................................................................... 9
Nominee 6: Candace Reid | First Comes Love Gowns & Events ............................................................... 10
Nominee 7: Doug Cook | Fountain Tire Commercial (Kamloops) ............................................................. 11
Nominee 8: Dawn Petrie | Four Star Communications Inc. ........................................................................ 12
Nominee 9: Robert Conroy | Inspire Chiropractic & Wellness Studio Inc. ................................................ 15
Nominee 10: Dan Rink | iTel Networks Inc. ............................................................................................... 16
Nominee 11: Gavin Rasmussen | K&C's Construction & Renovations Ltd ............................................... 18
Nominee 12: Steve Davidson | Kamloops Ford Lincoln............................................................................. 20
Nominee 13: Michael Forbes | Kamloops Insurance .................................................................................. 22
Nominee 14: Dennis Wilson | LNB Construction Inc. ............................................................................... 23
Nominee 15: Dylan Methot | Mostly Mental Shuttles ................................................................................ 25
Nominee 16: Greg Munden | Munden Ventures Ltd. ................................................................................. 26
Nominee 17: Carolynne McKenzie | Nature's Face & Body ...................................................................... 28
Nominee 18: Ryan Holowaychuk | Noran Printing Ltd .............................................................................. 30
Nominee 19: George Campbell | Overland Press (1990) Ltd. .................................................................... 31
Nominee 20: Sheila MacKenzie | Rainbow's Roost .................................................................................... 33
Nominee 21: Cristina Ostapovitch | RTOWN Kamloops ........................................................................... 35
Nominee 22: Linda Cline | Someday Retrievers & Hunt Club Ltd ............................................................ 37
Nominee 23: Natalie Fournier | Sweet Spot Cupcakes ............................................................................... 39
Nominee 24: Mario Piva | Tenisci Piva ...................................................................................................... 41
Nominee 25: Marcia Wilson | The Yoga Loft (Whole Family Yoga Inc.) ................................................. 43
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Nominee 26: Denis Lessard | TLC For Pets ................................................................................................ 45
Nominee 27: Trish Morelli | Trish Morelli Marketing Solutions ................................................................ 46
Nominee 28: Tyler Meade | Tyler Meade Photography .............................................................................. 48
Nominee 29: Terry Lowe | Volkswagen of Kamloops ............................................................................... 49
Nominee 30: Robin Clark | WestJet Airlines .............................................................................................. 51
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Nominee 1: Danielle Fauteux | All by Design
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Im nominating All By Design Danielle is amazing Business person, Her work is unbelievable.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that you
hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Founder/Owner since 2009, have designed 100+ projects in Kamloops and area
including the 2015 Y-Dream Home. We specialize in designing new homes (architecture)
as well as renovations with a focus on passive solar and passive ventilation. Recently
completed the new degree at TRU Bachelor of Building Science.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. 2015 Y-Dream Home designer (Gold Sponsor), 2015 Keystone award winner: Best
Renovation $300K+, Keystone Silver Award Finalist: Best House Design, Keystone Award
Silver Finalist: Best Interior Design
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. As a business owner I have made an economic impact on my region by staying current
with technology and design practices. I have a diploma in Architecture and Engineering
Technology and recently completed a Bachelor of Building Sciences from TRU. I also stay
up to date on business practices with the help of my business coach who has been a
pivotal role in my success in the community.
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Nominee 2: Sheryl Corrigal-Snider | Beautiful U
Nominators’ Comments:
Sheryl has been a long time small business owner in Kamloops. Her business has been in the community
for over 30 years. She has grown her business from offering only a few services to offering a wide range
of services for all skin types. Sheryl has invested in the highest quality state of the art machines to give
the highest results. Her strong business focus and quality service is very well known throughout
Kamloops. Sheryl ensures everyone receives the best customer service and leaves Beautiful U eager for
their next appointment and sharing the name Beautiful U to friends and family. Sheryl donates
generously to many organizations for fundraiser and other charitable events. Most recently to one of
her own staff members as she was raising funds to go build in Fiji for habitat to humanity.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that you
hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Beautiful U provides our clients with the most innovative cutting edge laser and anti-
aging Medical Aesthetic and body treatments in a clinical yet warm comfortable
environment. We use the latest technologies and finest quality products. Sheryl is the
founder, owner and most senior laser technician at Beautiful U. She leads her team by
making sure they are well versed in all aspects of the Medical Aesthetic industry. How to
help our clients look and feel their best.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Sheryl Corrigal founded Beautiful-U in 1984 to provide a health-centered, total body
approach to helping clients look and feel their best. Her philosophy is to not just focus
on procedures, but also the inclusion of the latest and safest technology. highest
standards. The focus on skin care and anti-aging treatments has meant clients can trust
her knowledge, professionalism, experience and training. Sheryl has lectured for the
American Academy of Family Practice (Scientific Assembly), specifically discussing the
importance of anti-aging products with peptides, sun care and sunscreen.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. In the early 90's when Sheryl had her office on Victoria she worked with Ray Fuoco to
organize block parties prior to the downtown merchant markets of Kamloops now.
Sheryl Volunteers with communities in Bloom and Sun Rivers . Sheryl has also
volunteered as a big sister. Has made numerous donations to support many local
charities in Kamloops and always wanting to give back.
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Nominee 3: Brandy Maddison | Brandy Maddison Event Planning
& Design
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Brandy Maddison created Brandy Maddison Event Planning & Design in Kamloops and with all
her hard work, her business is growing by leaps and bounds. She started a Wedding and Event
Planner and now she has expanded into floral design. She has been attending workshops to
hone her skills and all her hard work shows in every event she creates. Brandy goes above and
beyond her clients' expectations every time. When she is not busy making her clients' dreams
come true, or travelling to workshops, she's bringing workshops to Kamloops for other people to
enjoy with her.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that you
hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the owner, planner, stylist, and florist of Brandy Maddison Events. I have always
had a passion for design and a love for transforming spaces that move guests as they
enter the venue. Something that sets us apart, are the small details and decor touches
that represent the couple and their personality. Sitting down with each couple during
our coffee chat and hearing their story is one of my favourite parts. At BME we have
worked very hard on our "brand" and who we represent. We strive to be supportive and
build relationships with all businesses that we get to work with so we can all come
together to create amazing designs as a team and in the end complete a successful day
with extremely happy clients.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. My first success was definitely having the courage of starting my own business. I just
kept following the happy and exciting moments and went for it. I didn't let the fear stop
me or slow me down. After one year in business I want from 4 weddings to 12 in my
second year. And it just keeps growing. I started by myself running BME alone and now I
have an incredible team of 6 who help and support me every step of the way. Being a
part of Homes For The Holiday's last year was a wonderful opportunity. They must have
known how much I love the holiday season when they asked me to be a part of it.
Getting to show the community some Christmas spirit through design and creativity was
a wonderful feeling to share. Another great opportunity was getting asked by Style Me
Pretty a top wedding blog to be a part of their vendor list. As well as getting featured on
their blog with a styled wedding shoot I collaborated on with a team of incredible
vendors. The one thing I learnt from this was to keep dreaming and to never give up on
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your goals. Before their yes, I heard many no's and I am so grateful for those no's
because they taught me to keep pushing, and growing as a person and in my business.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. Our region doesn't have a lot of event planning and decorating companies. When I first
started I could feel the demand of what people were looking for and wanting. Even now
I am having to say no to clients because I am booked that same weekend. I think now a
days people are busy and having a hard time keeping up. So when a big life change
happens and they need to start planning their wedding their lives become very stressful.
And I love that I get to support them through that and take the stress away so they can
just worry about what really matters, being in love and starting a legacy together. I am
volunteering to be apart of a new initiative here in Kamloops called Common Initiative
through an amazing DJ company called Common Sound. What they are doing and I feel
so passionate about is taking floral arrangements from weddings at the end of the night
(agreed to by the wedding couple) going through the flowers and re-creating
arrangements and donating those flowers to people at Royal Inland Hospital, The
Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice Home, Berwick On The Park, and Kamloops
Seniors Village. The love from my client and willingness to donate their flowers has been
so amazing so far. My team and I will be delivering these arrangements, sitting down
with some amazing people and get to hear their stories. I can't wait to bring a smile to
someone in our city who needs it.
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Nominee 4: Tom Broad | Broad Spectrum Pest Solutions
Nominators’ Comments:
1. I cannot say enough good things about Tom. Tom is my boss and is the most generous person I
have ever worked with. Not worked for, but with. He makes his employees feel valued and
respects our ideas and values. Tom has been in the pest control industry for 25 plus years and
started Broad Spectrum just over 3 years ago. It has been amazing to see just how fast the
business has grown and how respected Tom is. This describes the reasons for employer of the
year, small business of the year, and service provider of the year. Tom will work 7 days a week if
he has to just to make the client happy. It is never about Tom, it never has been about Tom. The
client is his top priority.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I started Broad Spectrum Pest Solutions Ltd. in January 2013 with my wife and partner
Candace Broad. Although our company is quite new to Kamloops I have been in the pest
control industry in Kamloops since 1993.We offer residential, commercial and industrial
pest control services throughout Kamloops and surrounding areas. I look after how our
company operates in the field and my wife looks after the office. Our goal since the
beginning has been to offer exemplary service at fair prices within the community we
live in ourselves. We absolutely love what we do and hope to continue long into the
future!
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Our company has seen excellent growth to this point. We started with just the two of us
and were able to hire our first fulltime employee in our first year of operation. Since
then we have had a few seasonal employees but have now grown to accommodate a
third fulltime licenced technician. Since our first year in business we have increased our
gross sales by more than three times. We have been very fortunate to have received the
support that we have from our community and look forward to many years to come.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. I hope we have been able to help make a positive social impact with our work in the
ongoing battle against bed bugs. We have been able to work with many wonderful
organizations that provide housing in which bed bugs have become an epidemic and a
very real part of social housing. We try to provide education whenever possible and also
provide reduced rates for groups struggling with confined budgets. Working alongside
these groups has been a very humbling experience. Although I have never really tried to
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be a leader in the community, I certainly try every day to be a leader in our industry. We
take great pride in trying to do the best job possible with every customer.
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Nominee 5: Alana Krenz | Changes Hair Studio
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Alana was my Wife's boss for 5 years. My hat is off to her and her outstanding leadership and
managing skills. A very selfless person. Also the salon and all it ls employees are hands down the
best in the business for both quality and service.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the owner of Changes Hair Studio, we are leaders in our Industry, we go above and
beyond hair. We are environmentally conscience, involved in our community, give back
to society, key players in Earth Month, 100 Women who care, Food Bank, Jail and Bail,
believe in educating our guests and excel in customer service.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. This year we raised just under $14,000. We were number three in Canada. We have
been in Salon 200. This is the top 200 Salons in North America. Green Circle Salons for
environmental leadership. We also put on events for our local charities.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. We have had employment growth 13 employees, expanded in renos last November.
Went from 8 stylist s to 10. We have offered Apprenticeships. Being involved with 100
Women Who Care- Support our local community to support grass roots activities. We
have a loyalty program and Customer Appreciation Events.
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Nominee 6: Candace Reid | First Comes Love Gowns & Events
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Candace Reid has owned this business for a few years, proving her business ethics and its
growth withIn such a short time Her staff is amazing!
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the owner of First Comes Love. FCL offers an array of services for an engaged
couple. We offer full service planning, decorating setup and take down services, photo
booths, and ceiling drapery. We also have a bridal shop in downtown Kamloops and
offer wedding, prom, bridesmaids, flower girl dresses and so much more! We work with
our clients from the beginning stages of their engagement to the final wedding day,
executing a perfect wedding day with no stress to the couple or their families and
guests. We pride our business on offering the most current trends in both gowns as well
as decor
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Our most recent achievement is moving our store from Valleyview to Downtown! We
found the perfect space after looking for what seemed like forever. We have a large
beautiful storefront downtown that we love! We have the space to grow and offer any
services that we choose! I couldn't be more proud of what my little home based
business has become and am so excited to see what it has in store for our family.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. At First Comes Love we try and be a part of as many community events as we can. We
donate to the Diamond Dinner through the fire fighters every year offering our decor
inventory for them as well the setup and take down. There is many other events we
donate time and inventory to.
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Nominee 7: Doug Cook | Fountain Tire Commercial (Kamloops)
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Had my car into his location. I needed more work done than I could afford. Doug worked with
me to have the things fixed first that would keep me safe on our roads. We later fixed the
balance of issues my car was having. Being a woman going into a man’s world you feel defeated
before you start. This was not the case for me. I felt comfortable with what he was telling me
was wrong with my car. Explained I should fix the safety things first then come back to have the
balance completed. No pressure. I left there and went and got a second opinion and I did not
feel the same at the second location I went to. I took my car back and had it repaired. This man
deserves the highest award you can give. Thanks
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. We are a commercial and automotive facility. We repair passenger & commercial
vehicle's from tires to engines. We pride our self on honestly and integrity and keeping
our customers happy with the work we have completed for them. I am the owner/
manager.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. We are successful because of the staff we have that work for us. Our staff goes over and
beyond to help make thing right for our customers, without them we would not be
successful. Our business is growing each year and we believe this is because of the high
level of customer service we provide to our customers.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. One of the things that makes us a leader in our community is we support the Kamloops
food bank by repairing there vehicles at cost and free oil changes. We also support them
with basics for babies. to date we have donated aprox 40,000.00 to this great cause. We
also support the ASK Wellness center in town through cash donations as well as home
items we can help get to help them.
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Nominee 8: Dawn Petrie | Four Star Communications Inc.
Nominators’ Comments:
1. In 1994 Dawn Petrie had a idea for a Call Center/Answering Service Business that could be different
from the rest. At the time their was one service in town that handled a few clients. Dawn totally
transformed the Industry in the Thompson Region with the implementation of an up to date, state of
the art, Communications Equipment, and soon found her service was desperately needed.
She was told by many clients, ie: Remax, Crime Stoppers, Telus etc that they were so pleased with her
service and the chatter blossomed and flowered and grew and grew so fast that additional staff were
always being recruited in Kamloops.
Now 22 years later they have 61 employess and still growing. Four Star Communications provides Call
Centre / Answering Service assistance to all provinces across Canada (Vancouver, Victoria, Kamloops,
Prince George, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Manitoba, Ontario) with a client base of over 1200. Dawn
believes in Kamloops and her staff thrive from being a part of a growing company.
The reason Four Star Communications should be nominated for the Business of the Year award is that
they consistantly give exceptional customer service to their customers 24/7, manage all issues their staff
may have in implementing a new service to their business, answer all calls as if it were their own
business, on the clients behalf, send messages via, email, text, and voice mail to their clients while
keeping their Head Office in Kamloops and providing local employment to our region.
2. Dawn Petrie has been in business for over 20 + years in Kamloops. She has successfully grown her
business into one of the most successful answering services in Canada. She is committed to providing
long term jobs in our local community, and does not source elsewhere.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. My name is Dawn Petrie and I am the Founder, President and Owner of Four Star
Communications Inc. I am extremely honoured to be nominated for the Kamloops
Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year Award for 2016. Born in Victoria, BC
in 1968, but raised in Fort St. John, I moved to Kamloops in 1992 to attend the Kam Ed
Institution for a course in Business Skills. After graduating from Kam Ed, I developed a
business plan for Four Star Answering Service. Started in Kamloops, BC in 1994, Four
Star Communications Inc. is a 24/7/365 Telephone Answering Service that provides a
variety of Communications services for a diverse set of clients throughout North
America. Leasing my first office from George Wright, owner of Schoening’s Funeral
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Home and the building at 546 St. Paul St., I started Four Star Communications in 1994 in
a 400 square foot office with 2 computers. I spent days walking around the downtown
core, knocking on doors, soliciting business and nights answering calls. Canadian
Helicopters was my first customer, but it was Lyn Gannon at Sutton Realty that became
the beginning of Four Star’s success! Once I had the support of Lyn Gannon and her
team, Ross Spina with Coldwell Banker, Tom Bone with Argo Road Maintenance and Jim
Thomson of Plainsman Construction all came on board and I was able to consider Four
Star a real business. Since our small office on St. Paul St., we have grown out of 2 other
offices, moving to our 4th and largest office 3 years ago at 989 McGill Place. Our client
base has expanded to more than 1,100 customers across the country; we have acquired
7 additional territories of answering services; we currently employ 60 staff, with the
majority residing in the Kamloops community.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Success continues to be redefined to me. In the beginning, success was “closing” a
sale….and receiving after hours calls. Then it was being able to afford my first employee.
For several years, “success” was watching my “small business” grow its customer base
and expand into other communities. I acquired other local answering services and
developed a management team that helped Four Star grow into one of the top 5 largest
answering services in Canada. With locations in Kamloops, Prince George, Alberta and
Saskatchewan ~ and a major contract out of Ontario, this was the success I thought I
was after. For a girl from small town BC, I considered this plan to define success.
However, after 20 years in the business, what I have learned is that it wasn’t growing my
business that is my greatest success story ~ it was growing my employees! Developing a
team, empowering people, instilling confidence, watching employees expand their skills,
and their lives is the greatest accomplishment and success I will ever be a part of! There
is nothing that gives me more of a sense of success than watching my employees
improve their lives after they start working at Four Star. Watching them have the
confidence to buy new cars, get bigger apartments, go back to school, treat themselves
to more shoes, leave abusive relationships, or start their first RSP accounts brings me
the greatest sense of success imaginable. Knowing that you helped them feed their
family, raise their kids, go on vacation, that you provided them with opportunities that
maybe they wouldn’t have otherwise have ~ just knowing that you helped create a
better life for a some is more rewarding than any other measure of success I can think
of.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. As the sole owner of Four Star, I feel that as a result of the growth my company has
experienced I am personally responsible for the influx of millions of dollars into the local
economy. By providing employment for approximately 40 local residents, the revenue
that Four Star generates internationally ends up helping support our local community
through the rents my employees pay, the local groceries they purchase, bus transit
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used, car sales, clothing,….it all helps support Kamloops families. What makes me a
leader in the community, the positive social impact I have had on our region is not only
by providing employment, but by providing “Careers” for men and women that enable
them to provide for their families. I don’t just provide minimum wage paying, part time
jobs. I provide decent paying, full time jobs with medical benefits. I have provided
steady incomes for some Kamloops families for 5, 10, 20 years. I have enabled families
to grow here, to buy homes, to have children, to buy new cars. I take a great deal of
pride by being able to provide my incredible team with opportunities they otherwise
may not have been given. My contributions to the community tend to all come back to
my staff. I’m not the type of person that advertises what I do for others. But I will admit
to taking care of my staff, those that take care of me and my business. After
contributing to community causes for those less fortunate, I had an epiphany that I had
my own less fortunate, in my own company. From that day forward, I choose to better
the lives of my employees at every opportunity. I believe it has created a loyalty from
my staff that makes me feel like the best business person every day!
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Nominee 9: Robert Conroy | Inspire Chiropractic & Wellness Studio
Inc.
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Rob Conroy has done an amazing job growing this business in Kamloops but also not losing sight
of the need to give back to the community in which his business is located. I have seen the
company go through a massive reno, complete personal change and never once as a customer
felt like it effected the level of professional care I received.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Inspire Chiropractic & Wellness Studio Inc is a Family chiropractic office which focuses
on providing the best chiropractic services, including: infants, paediatrics, and
pre/postnatal care. I currently am co-owner, chiropractor.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. In only our fifth year of serving Kamloops and the surrounding areas we have quickly
become one of the premier family and paediatric chiropractic offices in the interior of
BC. Our mission is to educate and adjust as many families back towards optimal health,
through natural chiropractic care. With that in mind we have implemented community
education workshops designed to provide our patients with real strategies which will
help them, reach and maintain their desired levels of health not only now but into the
future. In addition we provide our patients and their families with the most up-to-date
information on nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. In 2016 My wife Dr Lisa Conroy & I have partnered with Kamloops Fit By Design with one
goal; to make Kamloops the healthiest communities in Canada. Offering Community
education for families and Kids on Backpack safety, Scoliosis checks, Dynamic flexibility
workshops, pelvic floor workshops _ our office has become a resource for our
community. Since opening in 2012 we have grown from 2 employees to 5 employees.
We have raised over $3,000 dollars for the Kamloops YMCA- Women's Emergency
Shelter. In 2013 we implemented Veterans' Scholarship for deployed
servicemen/women injured in service to our country to help get them back adapted to
civilian life. These scholarships provide them men and women up to 1 years’ worth of
care in our office. As always, we could not do it without our team they make it all
happen. I am so honoured to have been nominated for this award. Thank you all for
your consideration.
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Nominee 10: Dan Rink | iTel Networks Inc.
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Dan Rink is the CEO of iTel Networks located at 348 Tranquile Road in Kamloops. The company
currently employs upwards of 60 employees here in Kamloops and is on a fast growth pattern
and expect to be at 200 employees by 2018. They provide fiber optic networks and technical
solutions to business all across Canada.
Dan Rink has been immersed in the Kamloops technology sector all of his life and has been
passionate about helping others develop their ideas into sustainable businesses. This passion led
Dan into becoming one of the founding partners of the Kamloops Innovation Centre in 2013.
Dan continues to play a key role in the Kamloops Innovation Centre which now is home to
numerous technology companies that contribute over $450,000 monthly payroll into the
Kamloops economy.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of iTel Networks. iTel is a national carrier
of business-exclusive internet, telecom and cloud services with a simple philosophy:
provide the best and most reliable solutions at the most affordable price. We are the
first real alternative in a market dominated by unresponsive mega corporations and
small operations who don’t have the infrastructure and expertise to create and support
reliable services. We have built a “network of networks” that allows us to combine the
power of every service provider into one, which enables us to provide 100% uptime and
service to businesses all across the country, even in the most remote locations.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. In addition to my work as the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of iTel Networks, my
first entrepreneurial pursuit began as the Founder and CEO of Carecaller Emergency Call
Systems. I am also Co-Founder of Kamloops Innovation, a technology incubator created
to enable commercialization and technological innovation in Kamloops. Additionally, I
am Co-Founder and Board Chair for Lightship Works, a cloud application company that
connects multiple devices and worksite sensors to protect, manage, and inform
workers. And finally, I am also Co-Founder of Truvian Labs Inc., a map-centric data
management company that lets you create, visualize, and manage information. All of
the above mentioned companies have undergone tremendous growth and have
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contributed to the local economy by creating jobs and building a flourishing tech scene.
It’s my long-term goal to help put Kamloops on the map through this broad reach of
endeavours that provide corporate and non-profit services to businesses and
communities all over the country.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. As Co-Founder of Kamloops Innovation, an organization created to enable
commercialization and technological innovation in Kamloops, I am a proud proponent of
the growing Kamloops tech scene and one of the primary ongoing sponsors of Kamloops
Innovation. I have successfully created over 100+ jobs locally in Kamloops, as well as
remotely in Vancouver, Alberta, and Ontario. While jobs are most definitely important, I
also value development and education in the technology field. iTel Networks and
Kamloops Innovation have created the lvl1 apprenticeship program, which is an
initiative for high school and university students that helps train and build technology
innovators of tomorrow. We have invested millions in creating a national network
infrastructure that enables businesses across the country to connect and communicate
better. Before iTel, the industry was dominated by mega corporations and my goal has
been to create a true carrier alternative that provides high quality telephony services to
Canadian businesses at a much lower cost. I like to think that my work enables
organizations to have customized networks and connections that otherwise would not
have been possible.
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Nominee 11: Gavin Rasmussen | K&C's Construction &
Renovations Ltd
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Gavin volunteered to oversee a huge community project for our non-profit while we were
building a neighbourhood kitchen. He easily contributed over $20,000 worth of time and
materials to the project. He gave us advice and assisted with every aspect of the project. We
never would have been able to complete the project without his help and are forever grateful to
him for his generosity and wisdom.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. K&C’s Construction & Renovations Ltd. is a well-established, diverse construction
company serving both the commercial and residential sector markets for over twenty-
five years. In addition to our expertise in building, we also offer project management,
site supervision, general contracting and labour services. A privately owned company,
K&C’s has shown over the years its ability to accurately quote, deliver and satisfy its
many customers by providing tremendous value at a reasonable price. The lean
company environment and focus on efficiency, planning and coordination have ensured
its ability to adapt to changes and provide excellent results in a timely fashion. With a
core of skilled team members, K&C’s also has an extended group of qualified suppliers
and subcontractors to round out their team of trade partners. Everyone involved on
company projects adheres to high industry standard and sustainable values, which
underscore the company’s commitment to their customers. As a leader in the
construction industry, K&C’s continues to educate their team so that they can provide
creative and innovative solutions to each customer’s vision no matter how large or
small. The company has undertaken the stringent health and safety requirements to
become a COR* certified company and expects to complete the final audit this year.
Environmentally responsible building practices and community participation are
important aspects of the company. K&C’s has been a member of the Canadian Home
Builders Association Central Interior (CHBA CI) for 10 years, and the Southern Interior
Construction Association (SICA) for six years. I am the President of the company and
have the following qualifications: • Professional CCA gold seal superintendent •Certified
Mold and Water Remediation Technician • Journeyman Carpenter • Certified
Residential Builder (CHBA) • Certified Built Green Builder • SICA Board director
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2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. I have been in the building business since I was 19 years old and have taken as many
courses as possible to develop a thorough expertise in best building practices. In
building as in life you have to be committed to lifelong learning and I support my
employees in doing that as well. My desire to tackle and successfully complete a wide
variety of projects has broadened my company’s scope, experience and growth from a
one man show to a corporation of 8 to 12 people. In 2010, I took on a partner, Jeff
Mann, a red seal journeyman carpenter, to help me lead the expanding business and we
have not looked back since then. Good partnerships are rare and ours has been very
complementary to our enhanced success. Between Jeff and myself we were involved in
building the following: • The Green Dream Home Equilibrium House project (A CMHC
Challenge to build a home for a family of 4 that would generate as much energy as was
used over a one-year period) • The bear enclosure for the BC Wildlife Park’s new
addition Clover, the white Kermode bear • The new wave roof on the Old Main building
at TRU •Solar Hot water conversion for TRU in three of their buildings • Solar powered
and solar hot water conversion to the Village of Ashcroft community swimming pool •
Various commercial and residential renovations in town both completed and in process
•Gold Keystone Award from CHBA CI for their 2013 Kitchen Renovation under $75,000
My motto, “Keeping Customers’ Satisfied” and my determination to provide excellence
in our building projects is what establishes our brand. I hold our whole team to that
standard.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. My desire to grow and become a better builder and person is the foundation of my
leadership skills. I continue to learn how to become a better leader, role model and
example. Building “green’ is a basic foundation principle of my company and we explore
how to do that in every project we undertake. Although I spend considerable time
working on my company to ensure we are doing the right things and managing
efficiently, effectively, I have realized that belonging to the greater business community
is important. My company is not only a member of the Kamloops Chamber of
Commerce but took on a corporate partner role with the organization in 2016. My
participation with the Chamber has stretched my comfort level as the premier sponsor
of the annual LeaderCast initiative, a one-day world Leadership event created to provide
current and future leaders with inspiring ideas and success stories. The sponsorship was
beneficial to the Chamber but the experience was of more value to me and my vision in
leading the company. Giving back to the community where you make your living is not a
new concept for businesses. I have been an active advocate of this since I first started
my company. Being involved with community organizations who need assistance in
building and renovating from time to time, has served them and has helped me to grow
as a person. The satisfaction I have gained from contributing my skills, abilities and time
can’t be calculated in dollars and cents. I have been involved with Family Tree Family
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Centre, helping with their house renovations and most recently Kamloops Senior
Information Centre renovating their community kitchen
Nominee 12: Steve Davidson | Kamloops Ford Lincoln
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Steve Davidson and the team at Kamloops Ford Lincoln has participated in a variety of
community initiatives this year alone, including fundraising and donating over $17,500 to the
local Royal Inland Hospital to upgrade the patient care lounge and to raise more awareness for
Mental Health. Steve's second dealership, Kamloops Kia also helped raise funds for the cause
and collected donations for the patients using the mental health department. After that, the
dealership began raising money for the local Kamloops SPCA in order to help them build a new
shelter. By early June, they had already raised $12,000 for the shelter. Additionally, the team at
Kamloops Ford has worked with a number of local schools to help them fundraise for safe
school activities such as the Norkam Secondary and Westsyde Secondary Dry grads, and the
Brock Middle School Basketball teams, which they donated over $1300 to the schools and the
students so they could participate in activities they might not otherwise be able to.
Steve has demonstrated that he also provides a safe, diverse workplace for all of the staff. The
staff are always friendly, and working together as a team to help customers. The dealership has
a strong sense of community involvement, and is even sponsoring a FREE golf clinic on the 29th
of June so that kids in Kamloops can learn how to golf at The Dunes.
Steve announced that the goal of the company is to raise $100,000 for the community and its
nice to see that funds raised are staying within the city and we are seeing how it is benefiting
local needs rather than going to large charities.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. As the owner of multiple businesses in Kamloops and area, my goal is to build healthy
businesses, which achieves sales and profits adequate for corporate and personal
growth, community programs, meaningful work opportunities, and security for every
employee.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. I started my career in the automotive business in 1992, working in sales for Kamloops
Ford Lincoln. After earning a myriad of top achiever awards, I moved my way through
the ranks of sales and finance management. In 2006 we purchased the store from Gary
Candido and in 2009 added Kamloops Kia. We have seen our business grow from a
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combined $45,000,000 in annual sales to just over $57,000,000 in 2015. In 2012
Kamloops Ford Lincoln was fortunate enough to win the Chambers "Business of the
Year" as well as being nominated this year for both a community service award and
"Employer of the Year". We are proud of the fact that between the new Kamloops Ford
facility on Halston Ave and the new Kia facility on 8th St we have been able to push
$15,000,000 into the Kamloops market in capital investment and helped in small part
towards revitalizing the North Shore. Kamloops Ford Lincoln has received numerous
President's Awards from Ford Motor Co for continued success in client satisfaction and
Kamloops Kia was recently awarded the "Kia Act Smart Award" given globally to a
handful of dealers. In the past number of years I have or am currently sitting as a
director on the following boards. -Ford National Roundtable -Kia National Dealer
Advisory Board -Ford National Advertising Association -Western Automotive Dealers Co-
Auto -North Kamloops Rotary -BNI Platinum Chapter
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. Every part of my success has been made possible by our wonderful staff and the
members of the Kamloops community. That is why I believe so strongly in giving back in
any way that we can, and in order for us to do that, we support a number of local
charities each year. I understand that there is more to being a successful dealership than
just selling cars. In the past year, we have made initiatives to support our community in
a variety of ways, including fundraising for a new operating room at RIH in the fall of
2015, in which we raised over $22,000. In March/April of this year, we met with the
management of the Mental Health department at RIH, and upon learning they were in
dire need of a new patient lounge, we teamed up with the hospital once again and
raised $17,500 to go towards renovations. The following 2 months, we helped our furry
friends at the SPCA raise $13,600 to build a new animal shelter and we are just finishing
up our most recent fundraiser with KISSM, in which we have so far raised $8,000. We
have also supported three different local schools through test drive events, helping
them raise over $4,000 collectively to go towards safe dry grad events. During August
and September we will be teaming up with the local Kamloops Hospice, with a goal of
raising $20,000 for their association! Since 2010 we have been running our annual
Kamloops Kia community cleanup day where we volunteer a day in August to make a
positive impact on an area of Kamloops. One year we won the National Prize from Kia
Canada and used the funds to purchase park benches along Schubert Dr and at the end
of the red bridge.
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Nominee 13: Michael Forbes | Kamloops Insurance Nominators’ Comments:
1. Michael is a humble leader who is always doing things for the community without asking for
much publicity in return.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Kamloops Insurance is a local general insurance brokerage with a singular focus to
create and keep customers. We are so proud of our community and to be part of it...we
named our company accordingly.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Kamloops Insurance has enjoyed support for many reasons. We want to always value
our clients, our fellow citizens, to respect them and to understand them; to give them
uncompromising personal service however they want it.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. We have grown since 2010 from zero revenue to what is gross premiums of millions
today...from two workers to ten....and our growth continues. Watch for expansion soon.
As we grow so does our support and commitment to the people of Kamloops because
without them, there is no Kamloops Insurance.
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Nominee 14: Dennis Wilson | LNB Construction Inc.
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Having learned of the nominations for the Business Person of the Year award, I am writing to
nominate Dennis Wilson, CEO of LNB Construction Inc., a division of Infracon. Dennis’s ambitions
and accomplishments make him an ideal candidate for this award. Dennis has a vision of
changing the landscape of the industry by building meaningful relationships with First Nations
organizations. LNB already has one successful relationship in place, which exemplifies Dennis’s
integrity and belief in the value of partnerships.
Dennis has worked hard internally to restore the moral of the LNB team. He has a hands on,
active role within the company, ensures that all employees have a work life balance, while also
reaching their full potential. Under his leadership, professional development is a strong focus of
LNB, as is community involvement.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the President and CEO of LNB Construction Inc. and Infracon Energy Services. I have
over 20 years of local and international experience in mining, oil and gas, petrochemical,
project management, engineering management, and construction. I am a professional
engineer and hold a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from the University of Alberta, hold a
Project Management Profession (PMP) designation, and am also a member of the
Project Management Institute. LNB is a local company that has been operating for
almost 40 years in Kamloops and Merritt. LNB specializes in heavy civil earthworks
construction. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work and engagement within the
communities that we work in. LNB gives back to these communities through the
continued sponsorship of multiple local organizations such as the food bank, local sports
teams and First Nations education and enrichment programs. LNB also provides
employment to 40 full time employees and 200-300 seasonal workers.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Although I have achieved multiple designations and been involved with many prominent
and successful companies, my highest achievement to date is the work that I have done
with LNB. I was able to refocus and realign a company struggling with the challenges of a
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declining resource market and deteriorating morale. I have renewed employee morale
and pulled LNB out of a downturn by diversifying the company’s market base and
investing in organic growth within the local area. I believe that employees are the
strongest asset to an organization and have ensured that we reinvest capital back into
the training and development of our core group. I have improved the operational
efficiency of the company by cutting operational costs in a downturned market, and
refocused the vision of LNB. LNB is now focused on investment into the local community
and we exemplify that by devoting considerable time and financial resources into a
Trades school with a local First Nations band. Addressing industry needs, such as the
training and development of local youth, is a core tenant to the way that LNB does
business. I am passionate about it because not only does it create opportunity, it helps
transition young men and women into fulfilling careers while delivering resources
addressing the urgent need to provide skilled trades. I have formed a limited
partnership with a First Nations organization that resulted in securing a multiyear
contract with Highland Valley Copper. This provides well paying, meaningful
employment to local community members. I believe that any successful company starts
locally. My goal is to see our local communities benefit from our prosperity and growth.
A strong dedication and commitment to our health and safety culture is a key to our
success, we view our employees as our most valuable asset. Every meeting at LNB starts
with a safety moment. Our safety statistics are second to none. At LNB, safety is part of
the company culture, rather than just statistics and talk. It is part of the way we work
and it is part of who we are.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. Since joining LNB I have created multiple successful joint ventures and partnerships with
First Nations Organizations in the local area. I consider this to be one of my highest
achievements, along with being nominated for business person of the year. These
partnerships are meaningful, sustainable and lead to increased training and
opportunities for all. LNB has now developed relationships with the following First
Nations Organizations: Lower Nicola, Neskonlith, Adams Lake, and Splatsin and we are
currently in discussions with the Tk’emlups (Kamloops) and Skeetchestn Bands. Under
my direction LNB has taken a much stronger community outreach approach. We have
donated to the Kamloops Food Bank, the Sk’elep School of Excellence, the Shulus
Community Arena, and the Secwepemc Hunting Camp. LNB sponsors local sports teams
because we believe in the future of our youth and understand that sports and team
building are key component to the development of future generations. Although our
jobs are often elsewhere in Western Canada, LNB chooses to hire from our home base,
namely Kamloops and Merritt, before hiring elsewhere. Hiring local to our base can cost
more, but we believe so strongly in the communities we are based in that we make it a
priority. Under my leadership LNB has refocused on local work, and the local
community. Our focus is on the safety of our employees and the communities that we
work in. LNB has turned around in this poor economic market so that we can make a
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positive contribution to society as a whole, and will have many more prosperous years
ahead of us.
Nominee 15: Dylan Methot | Mostly Mental Shuttles
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Dylan, (Mostly Mental Shuttles) goes beyond what would be expected from a shuttle company.
-organizes and hosts two weekly group rides (for enjoyment, non profit)
-takes time with younger riders, providing experienced mechanical help and riding advice to
help them enjoy and join in mountain biking
Is a great ambassador for the sport of mountain biking and promoting Kamloops as a destination
spot to ride.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the owner and operator of Mostly Mental Shuttles based here in the city of
Kamloops. We've been in operation for 6 years, and never want to leave! I started the
company because I saw a need for a shuttle service at the Kamloops Bike Ranch in 2010,
as kids were stuck either walking for hitchhiking. This has quickly transitioned into a
guiding and shuttling service that serves both people coming into Kamloops, and our
local bike community. We now offer twice a week, free, group rides, as well as coaching,
guiding, and of course mountain bike shuttles.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Every year so far we have found a need to grow and expand. We started with a single 8
seater vehicle with a 6 person bike rack, and are now operating a 15 passenger van with
a soon to be 14 bike trailer! We have grown very popular within the global mountain
bike scene, and have had continued success working with a lot of professional mountain
bike riders. Above all though, we have grown leaps and bounds with the help of our
local mountain bike industry.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. As the premier mountain bike outfit in B.C., we've made a huge impact in mountain
biking in general. We've given young and upcoming riders the access and reliability to
hone their craft, as well as introduced hundreds of now serious mountain bikers to the
sport. We also have given kids and adults alike a service that allows them to get outside
and enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle, which also helps them stay out of trouble!
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Nominee 16: Greg Munden | Munden Ventures Ltd.
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Greg is very dedicated to supporting and helping in the community and working on maintaining
a health staff environment. He's always looking at ways to improve his industry through
innovation and technology! A great community leader!
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Munden Ventures Ltd. is a 3rd generation transportation, forestry, commercial vehicle
repair and manufacturing business based in Kamloops. We employ approximately 45
staff and subcontractors in our various divisions. Our businesses operate on the basis of
providing exceptional customer service in an open and honest way, with an emphasis on
creating partnership relationships both with our customers and with our suppliers -
most of whom are also local businesses whenever possible. The key to our success has
always been our long term, loyal team members who deliver the professional services to
our customers. We hold long term contracts with major forest licensees in the BC
interior for whom we both haul logs and conduct log harvesting operations. Our
commercial maintenance facility provides repair, preventative maintenance and
government inspection services to our own fleet of trucks, as well as to external
customers ranging from independent owner operators to some of the largest fleets
serving the region. Our newest division is engaged in tank manufacturing and repair.
Primarily serving the petroleum industry, we build, repair and provide government
certified inspections to many of the largest petroleum transportation companies serving
the local region and beyond. As President of our business, I have been very proud to
lead an organization that has seen growth, faced significant industry change and has
been unafraid of taking risks to adapt while always trying to take the moral and ethical
high road in reaching our goals. I take great satisfaction in being proud of the services
we provide and the products we make, but mostly in the development of our
outstanding employees.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. As I often say to people who ask the question, as a third generation business owner,
"I'm just trying not to screw it up". As recently as 10 years ago, Munden Ventures Ltd.
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was primarily engaged in lumber hauling for Weyerhaeuser Canada and Tolko
Industries. Unfortunately, one-by-one Weyerhaeuser began closing all of their BC
operations. In the end, our main customers were two of their three remaining BC
operations (Vavenby and Kamloops), as well as Tolko Industries in Barriere. The
announcement of Vavenby closing was followed within a few months by the Tolko mill
burning down during the McClure wildfire - representing our first and second largest
customers. Within a couple of years the Weyerhaeuser Kamloops sawmill was also
closed. As a result, our business had to be completely reconfigured in a short period of
time. I am proud of our successes in redeveloping our business into a log hauling
company and ensuring that all of our key staff, at the time, remained gainfully employed
by the Company. In fact, we never skipped a beat and were fortunate in having
continuing opportunities to develop the other divisions mentioned earlier. From a
personal achievement standpoint, I have been privileged to hold ongoing Board and
Executive Committee positions for more than 12 years with the British Columbia
Trucking Association, culminating in a recent term as Chairman. I was honored in June at
the BCTA AGM with the most prestigious award of "Service to Industry", given out to
only one person within the industry each year by the Association. For the past 4 years, I
have been on the Board of the Canadian Trucking Alliance (the trucking industry
national body), and was recently nominated to the Alliance's Executive Committee.
Locally, I have served on the Board of Venture Kamloops for the past 4 years.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. As a Board and Executive Committee member of the BC Trucking Association, I have
taken every opportunity to promote Kamloops. During my term as Chair, it became a
standing joke that I would always profess Kamloops to be the "center of the universe"
during every presentation that I made. I have been an advocate for improving the safety
and lifestyles of professional truck drivers both within our community and across the
province. In doing so, I was invited to work with SD73 in the development of a
Professional Driver Training Program for rollout at the Norkam Trades School (still
currently in the concept phase). As well, I have presented two policy positions for: 1) the
mandatory adoption of electronic onboard recording devices in commercial vehicles,
and 2) minimum mandatory commercial driver training at the most recent Kamloops
Chamber of Commerce policy session - both of which were adopted locally and
subsequently adopted by the BC Chamber of Commerce. With Venture Kamloops, I have
donated my time with the Board to help advance the initiatives undertaken by the
organization to ensure Kamloops is an open, inviting and progressive community for
people to locate or grow their existing business. I was invited to be a representative for
the trucking industry at the Small Business Roundtable formed by Christie Clark under
the direction of Naomi Yamamoto, and I became one of the developers and signatories
of the BC Small Business Accord which helped to guide the provincial government's
development of policy around the small business community in BC. Recently, I was
asked to sit on the committee which is directing the development of the City of
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Kamloops' updated Transportation Plan. I am very proud to live, work and raise my
family in Kamloops.
Nominee 17: Carolynne McKenzie | Nature's Face & Body
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Exceptional, natural face and body products. Huge variety of soaps and products to choose
from, all homemade and natural!!
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the founder and owner of Nature’s Face & Body and I strive to provide
competitively priced organic and natural products. With the help of my family, I have
produced products that at are safe for my customers, their pets and the environment. In
order to produce my product, I worked relentlessly to research ingredients that were
commonly used for many household cleaners, makeup and lotions. What I found was
disturbing to me as many of the ingredients were toxic to both people and the
environment. I made a promise to myself to make products (or source other products)
that would be safe for people, animals and the environment. This is something I am
passionate about and I wanted to make a positive change within my community. I have
selected suppliers who guarantee quality and free trade and I stand behind my products
100%. It is important to me to provide safe, natural/ organic products that have never
been tested on animals. I am proud to sell my products within the Kamloops community
and all across Canada!
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. I feel my biggest achievement is the amount my online business has grown over the past
year. My wholesale customer base has tripled in this time. I hear my achievements
through customer feedback, which I encourage. More recently, one of my clients who
have a septic tank thanked me for providing a laundry liquid that does not disturb the
bacterial balance in her septic tank. She stated she had been searching for a product
that would work for several years. I had a client who was looking for eye gels and
creams that would combat dark circles and wrinkles, but she had reactions from
everything she had tried. I worked with her to target her areas of concern without the
reaction to the product. I am happy to say we were successful and she no longer worries
about severe reactions to products. I am proud I can individualize my products for
clients and supply products that I know will help them.
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3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. The success of our business comes from hard work and research. My products are
natural and organic and do not harm our environment. I sell my products at very
competitive prices because I want everyone, no matter what their socioeconomic
background, to have access to safe products for their families. My products do not
contain toxic ingredients and they are an option people can afford. My products range
from septic safe shampoos, body washes and laundry liquid, environmentally safe bug
spray, make up, lotions, cleaners, essential oils, and even jewellery. If I cannot make the
product someone is looking for I will help them find a provider that follows the
natural/organic philosophy that I stand for. In turn, this helps my fellow business owner.
My main concern is to have safe products in my community and to make my customers
satisfied “always” whether they purchase from me or another business. When my
business started there were few businesses like mine. I’m happy to say that providing
natural products for consumers has increased dramatically since then!
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Nominee 18: Ryan Holowaychuk | Noran Printing Ltd
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Exceptional service in all areas.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Ryan Holowaychuk took over as the new owner of Noran Printing in 2009. Ryan was
born and raised in the industry and has over 20 years of experience. He first started
sweeping floors and emptying garbage for his dad, Louis Holowaychuk, who owned
Kamloops Commercial Press. Ryan’s extensive knowledge of the printing industry and
his background in IT made this move the perfect fit. At Noran Printing, we have the
capability to do just about anything that has to do with Paper… and so much more!
Services we offer include printing of all stationary and marketing materials, business
forms and booklets etc. We also offer our customers a wide variety of promotional
products and embroidery. We are very proud to be part of the Kamloops community
and appreciate this nomination.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Noran Printing is a well-established company in the Kamloops community. We are 100%
local, we employ a handful of staff and are proud supporters of many events that take
place here and around Kamloops. In 2015 Noran was honoured to receive the Business
in the Arts Award presented at the Mayors Gala. That was a highlight and a testament to
our success in the Kamloops community.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. I believe Noran has made a positive impact on our community. We are always excited to
be part of the many events that take place in our city and help out in any way we can.
We are firm believers in “Keeping Business Local”. In the past years we have been proud
supporters of many events and organizations including the Kamloops Symphony,
Western Canada Theatre, JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), The Kamloops
Brain Injury Association, Rib Fest and most recently the Kamloops Komedy Festival. Ryan
is also a firm believer in giving back to the community. He has been a Hockey Coach for
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KMHA for many years and coaches his sons soccer team. We continue to grow and look
for any way we can make a positive impact on our community.
Nominee 19: George Campbell | Overland Press (1990) Ltd.
Nominators’ Comments:
1. -Long-time Kamloops Business
-2nd generation business.
-High degree of innovation
-George gives a huge amount of his time to supporting the community through volunteering for
projects and various service groups!
-Has mentored dozens of new business owners of the years!!
-Profitability
-stable employment provided over the years
-Amazing product quality and diversity
I would like to nominate George Campbell of Overland Press for Business Person of the Year.
When I think about someone in our community who exemplifies this, George is the first person
that comes to mind. Overland Press has served many of us in the community for printing needs.
Not only is the business well run, but the staff listen to customers’ needs and go above and
beyond. I have received product that is great quality and value.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I have been an owner of Overland Press since 1979. Over this time there have been a
number of changes to the market place as well as the equipment used to produce
products. Because of our highly qualified employees we are able to provide services that
few other businesses in our field are able to provide. As a matter of fact we count a
number of other printing companies amongst our clients. A number of our clients have
been with us for decades, a couple since the founding of the company in 1960. We
enjoy a personal relationship with most of our customers as we help find solutions to
their printed needs.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. I have many successes in my career, recognition, gratifying feedback and awards. What I
have learned is success is very simple to measure. It boils down to people `doing
ordinary things exceptionally well` or as Al McNair loved to say `Little things mean a lot?
Wrong, they mean everything`. So, when the people I work with take a plain magazine
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for B.C. Trappers and turn it into an exceptional, world class product; or the University
of California contacts us to produce a series of books for them because of our
knowledge in a certain area; or numerous authors like Dennis Robertson, Helen
Sakeskanip, Mike Politis and Don Klancher, to name but a few, come to us to for help
and advice on telling their stories; that is success. Success to me is seeing people grow
and achieve great things in their careers. Helping people become self-confident, skilled
individuals making a valuable contribution to our society is a very gratifying bit of
success to me.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. Winston Churchill once said: “What you do is how you make a living; what you give is
how you make a life.” My contributions to the community make mine a very rich life.
Working with a number of people who make such valuable contributions to our way of
life is truly a blessing. I am involved in the scouting movement. I started working with
youth in different age groups from seven up to eighteen. Watching these young people
grow and become valuable citizens in their communities is extremely rewarding. Later
on I moved on to become a trainer, giving adults the skills to work successfully with
youth. I have served on a number of boards and committees; this allowed me to gain
insight into the multitude of needs communities in our region have. These include for
example: Youth, Camp Grafton, Scouts Canada; Seniors, North Shore Community Center
Society; Special Needs, Interior Community Services and Chris Rose Foundation; Arts
and Culture, Western Canada Theatre Company; Business, Kamloops Chamber of
Commerce and B.C. Graphic Arts Industry Association to name but a few. I just
completed a term as president of the B.C. Interior Community Foundation. This is
particularly gratifying because of the many communities and organizations the
Foundation helps through the generous donations by people who live and work in our
region. The number of people in the business community that look to me for
mentorship demonstrates my leadership skills. The number of organizations that I have
chaired or sat as part of the executive committee is also testament to my leadership
ability.
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Nominee 20: Sheila MacKenzie | Rainbow's Roost
Nominators’ Comments:
1. No-one is doing anything like Rainbow's Roost they are very unique, they treat all their staff like
close family, putting kamloops on the map, only using local produce and supplies, not trying to
make money more into providing a tailored service for anyone and everyone
2. The Rainbow's Roost provides unique opportunities to celebrate special events in a farm setting.
Sheila and Ed are always around and so kind and welcoming to all they meet. There is such a
diversity in their product and everyone who goes there is always so happy.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Rainbow’s Roost is a family-owned and operated farm and events centre located along
the bank of the North Thompson River in Kamloops, BC. Our property includes 53 acres
of fields, creeks, ponds, wild flowers, and other natural vegetation, making it an ideal
location for weddings, corporate retreats, kids camps, festivals, art shows, and much
more. Complemented with over two acres of lawn and a 3,000 square foot post and
beam event hall, we are able to provide a diverse range of authentic, indoor, and open-
air experiences. Our property also features a zip-line, geocaching activities, carriage and
pony rides, fishing in our stocked pond, a petting farm, and a chance to adventure
through our property and enjoy numerous creeks, animals, and natural vegetation. The
Rainbow's Roost has many activities to keep the entire family engaged throughout their
stay. Through exploration and programs, we provide opportunities for our younger
generations to learn about sustainable farming, develop skills such as how to rope a
cow, spin wool, and fish, and enjoy the outdoors in a fun and engaging way. We have to
admit, the adults love it too! We are The Rainbow’s Roost, Acres of Wonder, and
Everything Under One Roost!
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. When we consider how we achieve business success, we don't measure it by
streamlining systems, optimizing inefficiencies, and measuring the little minutiae of our
business. We look at the relationships we create and the way we make a difference in
our clients and customers lives, children and adults alike. For example, when we hold
events and we notice people watching our animals or exploring our farm, we engage
them, and educate them even further about the land, animals, and living sustainably.
Although this doesn't turn into immediate, measured business success, it contributes to
our overall goal of educating and changing people's lives. We measure this success by
tracking how many repeat customers we have, and how excited people are to
experience nature with us. We see the smiles on their faces when they leave, and we
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know they're coming back. This is why we have been so fortunate to be as busy as we
have been over the years. Another indicator which demonstrates our success is our
relationships with our staff. The staff we attract are excited about their work, and
volunteer experiences. They are dedicated to the goals of the Roost, and even travel
from the lower mainland each summer to work for us!
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. I had worked in the public school system for over 20 years. It was then that I made two
decisions. The first was to adhere to the physicians oath, and “do no harm” The second
was to do whatever I could to have a positive impact on my community, and the lives I
touched. When building my business, I made it my mission to create a facility which was
physically accessible with: paved roads, gravel pathways, wooden bridges, and entry
level hall. I also made it my mission to ensure that all members of society had access to
our facilities no matter what their financial situation. We often welcome families and
individuals to our farm and spend time taking them on tours and teaching them about
our animals. As well, school groups, daycares, group homes, care facilities, and social
organizations such as People in Motion, In Sight, Patient Care, (Grief Support) and the
Chris Rose Society, are invited on a regular basis to experience the Roost and all it has to
offer free of charge. While with us we encourage members of the special interest groups
to explore, and build new skills. As part of the skill building opportunities we offer these
special people work and volunteer experiences. Opportunities Fund also recognizes the
Roost as a positive placement for workers. Over the year we have contributed time,
money, and resources to a number of local causes. Examples of this would be:
purchasing and raising a pig for David Thompson Elementary for their “Shave Your
Head/Kiss a Pig” fundraiser for Mitch, and the subsequent dinner in his honour;
donation of the hall for fundraisers; providing organic produce for community events
such as Boxing Day dinners; hosting events such as the barbeque and motorbike ride to
raise money for Y Kids, and holding events such as craft fairs and art shows and giving
the proceeds to charity.
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Nominee 21: Cristina Ostapovitch | RTOWN Kamloops
Nominators’ Comments:
1. They've worked with small business to bring them up to speed in technology and where the
future lies in fast marketing. Not only does it work for the business owners, individuals received
info on places they may have looked passed or never thought to visit. Deals & endless up to date
what's happening now. Love this company!!
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. The company I work for is RTOWN. RTOWN is a digital marketing company whose
mission is to help other small businesses succeed. The digital landscape is growing and
changing at an alarming rate. Companies like this did not even exist 5 years ago. We
have the tools and expert staff to help business owners with complex marketing
strategies such as social media, reputation management, and SEO. We also provide
services such as websites, videos and online customer survey and satisfaction reports.
Through these tools we help businesses increase their bottom line, which in turn makes
for a healthy economy. I run (and started) the Kamloops division of the company. My
official title is Regional Digital Marketing Strategist. My role has been to consult,
educate and acquire customers in the Kamloops and surrounding area. Unofficially, I am
the company guru on motivation, team building and ethical sales training. We have had
such success in the Kamloops market, my role has evolved to help us do the same in
new markets such as Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, Quesnel and Williams Lake. What I
get to do for a living is such a joy. It is the quintessential win/win situation. A small
business’s success is our success.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. When I first heard I was nominated for this award I thought it was comical. I was
reminded by a few friends how far I have come in the last 5 years. Please excuse the
personal nature of this answer but I believe it will best explain my success if you knew
my beginnings. Five years ago I had just became a single mom with no job and a six year
absence in the workforce. Fortunately, this was short lived and I was offered a job
working at a small, local coffee shop paper selling advertising space. I was able to earn
enough to keep my house. There was no room for extras but I was able to pay the bills,
completely on my own. Then came RTOWN. When Luke, the CEO, offered me this
position, he had only one client in Vancouver. One! I polity declined but thank goodness
he didn’t take no for an answer! After a few more meetings I accepted the position to
head up the Kamloops branch of RTOWN. It has been hair straight back ever since. I
personally have obtained over 250 clients in the past three years. Kamloops is RTOWN’S
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strongest division, even over Vancouver. So strong in fact that RTOWN changed the
business model of how we were to grow and scale into other markets. I have helped
create well-paying jobs in our community. (We are about to hire our third employee for
Kamloops) I have helped so many businesses in this community grow their business. This
is very difficult for me to say because it sounds self-serving but I was an integral part of
RTOWN’s success and helped beat astronomical odds of a business succeeding in the
first 3 years. Not only have we succeeded but we have become a million dollar
company.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. My job is to help other businesses succeed. Period. I can’t tell you how exciting that is!
When businesses succeed, the effects on the economy have a ripple effect. If we shift
just 1% of our spending to shopping locally in BC, we will create 3100 new jobs and
increase $94 million into the annual economy. RTOWN looks at the big picture. When I
am talking to clients, it’s not about what I can sell them. It’s about how can we get more
people through their doors, spending local dollars that stay local. Everything I do helps
makes a positive economic impact and that is why I do it. Perhaps that is not necessarily
the answer you are looking for so I will try this: Personally I am involved with one charity
and one not for profit. I have been on the board of Kidsport for two years. My role is
marketing and sponsorship. We help kids from low income families be able to play
sports and be involved, regardless of financial limitations. It is extremely rewarding work
knowing every child deserves the same opportunities in life. I also volunteer for
something else that is near and dear to my heart, JAC, Junior Achievements. I believe
sharing life experiences with youth today can have a greater impact than just the
education system alone. The way in which I feel I am a leader in the community is by the
way I conduct business. I believe that by being ethical, genuinely caring, and giving back
in some way inspires other to do the same. It certainly inspires me when I see others
step up. I want people to know that if you work hard but actually have purpose to what
you are doing, you’re going to succeed.
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Nominee 22: Linda Cline | Someday Retrievers & Hunt Club Ltd
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Linda goes above and beyond with her breeding program and training. My family had the joy of
purchasing a chocolate lab from Linda, and he spent 6 months with her being trained for hunt
tests and bird hunting. By far the most amazing bird dog, thanks to Linda.
2. I cant say enough about Linda, she has such a love for the dogs. She trains then to be a pet for
your home, a hunting dog , a bomb dection dog, and police dogs.
3. Linda takes in Dogs that people just cant have and finds then a loving home, she takes dogs
that are scared of there own shadow and shows them theres more to life than being scared of
everything. She gives these dogs a life they deserve to have. She helps people who have
troubled dogs in there family have a dog that can be apart of the family. She has a pool on her
properity for extreme air dogs and host a family even FREE to ome watch theses amazing dogs
fly through the air and land in the pool. she teaches dogs to swim in the pool. it also can be used
to help dogs get exercise that have health issues. I could go on and on, But this lady deserves the
highest award she can get.
4. Last year I had the pleasure of dealing with Linda Cline of Someday Retrievers when I purchased
a puppy from her. Here professionalism in running her business was impress, the dog kennels
were clean and well run. I also liked that she raised dogs that would become service dogs for
persons with special needs and provided training for owners and their new dogs.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. My name is Linda Cline, I am the Owner/Operator of Someday Retrievers. For over 20
years, I have been breeding pure bred Labrador Retrievers for hunting, service, law
enforcement, and bomb and drug detection, as well as family pets. My dogs have been
sold throughout North America, as well as China, Argentina, Sweden and other locations
worldwide
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Over the past 20 years, I have successfully developed a reputation as a trusted breeder
and trainer of dogs for all purposes. Our facility in Kamloops provides boarding and
training for all breeds of dogs. My pure breed Labrador Retrievers are sought after
worldwide by avid hunters, law enforcement agencies for drug and bomb detection, as
well as service dogs for people with disabilities. We are also one of the leading breeders
of family pets. Recently we have sold dogs to local celebrities (eg. Sarah Mclachlan and
Steve Darling). Also, we recently sold a dog to Transit Police in Vancouver, who was the
subject of the “Name that Dog” promotion on BCTV, where the winning name was from
a Kamloops elementary student with the winning name KONA.
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3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. As an active community member, my personal goal is to improve the quality of life
around me. As a business owner in the unincorporated area of Cherry Creek, I have
endeavoured to hire people locally with accessible work close to home hiring some 15
to 20 people during this time. I work with my staff members to expand their possibilities
by paying for the cost of expanded education in their chosen field of interest. Fernando
Silva, the “Brazilian Dog Guru” is a product of my nurturing and training, he has now
established his own training facility in Kamloops and has been nominated for an
Excellence Award for Small Business. I also support rescue societies by providing free
training for dogs that are in shelters in an effort to have them placed in family homes.
Last November, I did a free training day at Sahali Mall where participants gave a
donation to “Adopt a Family” at Christmas.
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Nominee 23: Natalie Fournier | Sweet Spot Cupcakes
Nominators’ Comments:
1. When Natalie took over this business and she recognized a desire from the community and
made it a reality. She values her customers and all her products are made from scratch and she
has many products that accommodate different dietary preferences.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am a self taught cake decorator and baker that always dreamed of one day opening my
own bakery. When the opportunity came to purchase the business all items fell into
place and my dream had finally came true. I have the opportunity to work alongside my
mother everyday and have now been able to employ two other staff members who
each bring a special part to the Sweet Spot Cupcake family. We have the pleasure of
making cupcakes and custom cakes for the community. Being a part of the communities
every day celebrations brings us joy and fulfillment. We have indirectly been a part of
Kamloops families celebrating births, anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, graduations
and many more special occasions. My goal as a new business owner in such a friendly
city, was to ensure that everyone felt welcome and comfortable when entering our
store. We offer an environment where our customers can come in and are greeted with
a friendly hello by staff that makes them comfortable enough to share whatever they
feel like sharing with us that day. We have a few table for friends to enjoy a nice dessert
and beverage, which often leads to hours of conversations. We have also recently
introduced soft serve ice cream which has been a big hit on these warm summer days. I,
personally have enjoyed every challenge and accomplishment this business has
provided me and getting to know the community has been a bonus. I am known as "the
cupcake lady" to many and that makes me smile and feel appreciated. I go to work
every day knowing we are bringing smiles to our customers, it's a great feeling.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. I have always dreamed of opening my own bakery, and in 2014, the opportunity to
purchase Sweet Spot Cupcakes came along. Through many small and large hurdles, the
business was purchased and finally I was able to make my dream come thru. I did
purchase an existing business, however I wanted to make it my own. I never imagined
the struggles I would have purchasing an existing business with loyal customers.
Kamloops has a loyal community and I had to convince them that they would be taken
care of by me and my staff as they had been in the past. We had to work on making
them feel comfortable and trusting towards us and our product. An accomplishment I
feel we have achieved, with a now loyal customer and referral base business. The
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wedding bookings have double this year, and our sales have increased by 37%. Growing
my business is definitely an achievement I am very proud of, but being trusted to be a
part of someone’s special celebration is a much greater accomplishment. My customers
come to me with a vision of what they would like the cakes/desserts to look like for
their special day and trust in me to create it and make their visions come true. To be
able to say we can make what they want and have them overjoyed by the results is such
a proud moment. As a self-taught decorator, I enjoy exploring new challenging
techniques. It’s allowed me to think outside of the box with the custom cakes. I have
many everyday achievements in my business but being an indirect part of the
community and their family celebrations is my biggest accomplishment ever. I love
being out in the community and have my customers call me the "Cupcake Lady".
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. These last few years have allowed me to be a part of a foundation called Icing Smiles,
which is an international foundation that has local "Sugar Angels" provide special
customized cakes to sick kids and their siblings in the community. Being a Sugar Angels
has allowed me to provide smiles to families and kids that have struggled with
challenges that most of us could not even relate to. I have donated and worked with
many charities and special events in the community to show my support and to help
give back to the community that supports us on a daily basis. Without them we
wouldn’t be, giving back helps us say thank you. I have also done fundraisers in store
that have helped communities, such as the Fort McMurray Fires and the Sawyer family,
who needed help as their child was ill. By employing two students in a very
independent, yet team environment, I feel I have provided them with an opportunity to
learn both leadership skills and team building skills. I value my team members as both
being parts of my business puzzle. Without the environment we have in the store as
coworkers our business wouldn't be as dynamic as I believe it is. I am so proud to be
able to help two young community members indirectly with their studies, and financial
wellbeing. I look forward to the continued growth of the business, which in turn will be
able to help me help others.
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Nominee 24: Mario Piva | Tenisci Piva
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Mario Piva has consistently shown incredible leadership and care for his team at Tenisci Piva.
When Mario builds a team, he treats them as family, and supports them getting to where they
desire to be, both professionally and personally.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I am the Managing Partner of Tenisci Piva, Chartered Professional Accountants. Tenisci
Piva was formed in 1994, by Ron Tenisci and myself. Our specialty is working with small
business owners. Our Vision, Mission, and Core Values Statements are key to our
growth and keep us focused on what’s important. They are: Vision Our vision is to be
the professional services firm of choice. Mission Tenisci Piva builds a caring and trusting
relationship with our clients, provides high-quality business advisory services and makes
a positive impact on their financial and personal lives, while creating an awesome client
experience. Our workplace environment is positive, productive, energetic, team-
oriented and fun. Our team members feel balanced, valued and respected, are
accountable, and are given the opportunity to grow and shine. Together, we act to make
our community a great place to live. Values Integrity Respect Reputable Caring
Accountable
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. • Tenisci Piva has grown from five employees and two partners in 1994 to 22 employees
and five partners today • Am proud to be able to inspire and motivate a great team of
employees. It’s the team at Tenisci Piva that is my biggest accomplishment and they are
the ones that make our firm special. They look after all the details, and always go above
and beyond for all of our clients. • Have groomed and mentored many accounting
students into CA’s, CPA’s, and even managers at our firm • Firmly believe in a positive
company culture, and enjoy hearing each team member deliver a positive quote weekly
in our team meetings. • Recently became managing partner at Tenisci Piva, which
means really focusing on the big picture as well as ensuring every team member is
engaged and able to have a say in their own career development • Now more than
ever believe in meeting regularly with all team members to ask how can we be better,
and will you help us do this • I believe in the value of a healthy and balanced team; we
offer a weekly private yoga class for our team members, we provide funds to pay for our
team members’ personal fitness programs, we bring in a Registered Massage Therapist
during tax season to provide relaxation during this busy time of year. • I believe in
making a positive impact on the lives of our team; we regularly watch inspiring and
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motivating Ted Talks together as a team, sent many team members to the Chamber’s
Leadercast, and am sending our whole team to the upcoming Jack Canfield seminar in
Kamloops. • I believe in team building, and regularly arrange events for all to have fun
together and bond.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. I am very proud that Tenisci Piva and my team support many local non-profits because
we believe in supporting the community. Here are some of the community non-profits
society and events we all support: • Pro bono or discounted fees for: o Kamloops Food
Bank Society o Kamloops Minor Hockey Association o Kamloops Collegiate Baseball
Society o Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism Foundation and Society o Habitat for
Humanity o Operation Red Nose, since its inception o PacificSport Regional Sport Centre
- Interior BC o Kamloops Campus Radio Society o Kamloops Curling Club • Extensive
team presence and donated hours working at Kamloops Food Bank events (Basics for
Babies, Food Drives, Easter and Thanksgiving hampers) • Huge presence in the Italian
community – with most partners belonging to the Italian society (men’s Colombo Lodge
and women’s CanItal Ladies) and donating time throughout the year • Annual
attendance at Big Brothers Bowl for Kids’ Sake – with many Tenisci Piva team members
and their families participating • Annual support of the Chris Rose Foundation dinner
and sponsorship of their annual golf tournament • Annual attendance and support at
the Elizabeth Fry Society annual fundraising dinner and several other fundraising dinners
for other organizations throughout the year. • Long term sponsors of the TRU Sports
Foundation • Three-year supporter of the Heart & Stroke Big Bike • Have been past
treasurer of the Colombo Hall, and past VP and Secretary/Treasurer of Business
Networking International • Many team members and partners of Tenisci Piva hold
board positions in local Kamloops non-profits, including TRU’s Enactus, Crimestopper’s,
Rotary (Kamloops West Treasurer and Aurora), TRU Alumni Board, and TRU Student
council.
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Nominee 25: Marcia Wilson | The Yoga Loft (Whole Family Yoga
Inc.)
Nominators’ Comments:
1. The business of creating an amazing space to practice yoga is not an easy one and yet Marcia us
excelled at giving her clients opportunities thy would otherwise not be available in Kamloops. I
have not heard a negative comment from anyone and I've been happily going there for 2 years.
THAT is a feat!
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. My name is Marcia Wilson- I am the owner of the Yoga Loft. I am an Occupational
Therapist by profession. My career has evolved in a very creative way secondary to my
involvement in volunteer and non-profit endeavors. The Yoga Loft is my first foray into
for-profit business. The Yoga Loft is a community-oriented studio located downtown.
We offer a mix of drop-in classes, as well as other services including Family Yoga,
Therapeutic Yoga, Continuing Education and Workshops, and Specialized programs. I
opened the studio in 2012, in part to provide a home for the family yoga programs I
offer; as of this fall we are home to yoga for children aged two to teens, as well as a
popular pre and post-natal yoga program. Services at the Yoga Loft have always evolved
organically and have included partnerships with the Interior Health/City of Kamloops
Strategic Health Alliance and Community Mental Health. Our Therapeutic Classes are a
critical place of healing for people post brain-injury/accident/illness. Programs for
people with anxiety and those in recovery are also part of our programming. The studio
is known for its positive working environment. All past and present Yoga Loft employees
are still connected to the studio as current employees or on contract on special projects.
Our team has grown from employed staff of two to four, and our contingency of
contractors (teachers and back-end contract staff) has grown from 6 to over 20. We
have always had a waitlist of teacher’s who would like to join our team. Many of our
teachers hold professional degrees in the health and social sciences. Our client base is
stable- we have a 76% retention rate. This creates a strong sense of connection and
community which is why many love the studio so much- it is home!
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Although I have owned the Yoga Loft since 2012, it is only within the last 6 months that I
have fully embraced my role as business owner. Prior to 2012 my career was public
service oriented- I worked as an occupational therapist, and later took on leadership
roles for a number of non-profit organizations. Although they were not-for-profit
ventures, these opportunities influenced creation of the Loft. My role with the MS
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Society of Canada was particularly powerful in my development. Over a ten-year period
I worked with local volunteers to create an award-winning chapter that funded over
$250,000 annually in services and research. During my tenure I also worked with all
levels of government and private industry in a quest to create a Kamloops-based MS
Clinic. A shift saw me begin teaching yoga in 2010, and in 2012 I opened Kamloops’ first
non-hot yoga-only studio. I invested in business structure and equipment, and a team of
5 joined me. Today, my success as owner of the Yoga Loft is seen in its high client
retention rate (75% with over 1650 active clients in the past year), a waitlist of teachers,
retention of all staff, hosting major trainings and a world-renowned teacher, and
expansion of programs and partnerships. Most importantly I see success reflected in our
incredible team and steady growth in spite of my own challenges including a marital
separation in 2014 and injury which has forced me to stop teaching. My shift to the
business world has been a successful due to the incredible learning that came from my
non-profit ventures. As the Yoga Loft continues to thrive, my role as owner allows me to
unfold new opportunities or to hold where we are, making skillful choices informed by
years of learning.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. In 2012 I opened Kamloops’ first non-hot yoga-only studio. I invested in business
structure and equipment, and a team of 5 joined me. Today, my success as owner of the
Yoga Loft is seen in its high client retention rate (75% with over 1650 active clients in the
past year), a waitlist of teachers, retention of all staff, hosting major trainings and a
world-renowned teacher, and expansion of programs and partnerships. I am a
community builder- I create things, I connect people, and I build relationships. Each of
my ventures has been a creation of community. My positive social impact and
leadership role centers on my involvement in health and fitness based projects, in part
through my engagement in health based non-profits but also through my volunteer
activities. I engage in a cycle of filling a need and leaving a legacy- that now includes the
Kamloops Triathlon Club, the Kids of Steel Triathlon, the Kamloops Chapter of the MS
Society, the Thompson Region Division of Family Practice and now my first for-profit
venture- the Yoga Loft. Over the past 4 years the Yoga Loft has sponsored a variety of
groups, in particular those with an arts based focus including Western Canada Theatre,
the Kamloops Symphony, and the Kamloops Arts Council. We are also an annual sponsor
of Bike to Work Week and the Kamloops Triathlon Club. We provide gift cards for every
event that requests support. And through fundraising for our own Mats4Kids program
we support the offering of yoga to local kids in the community by buying mats for
schools and community organizations. The Yoga Loft reflects my value in investing in
start-up and developing partnerships with business experts. The studio continues to
grow with sales of over $300,000 this year and an average growth of 18% year over year
since we opened. I continually re-invest in the studio to ensure its sustainability. Finally,
having grown from a team of seven teachers and staff, we now financially bolster the
income of more than 20 families.
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Nominee 26: Denis Lessard | TLC For Pets
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Tammy and her team goes above and beyond to take good care of our furry family members.
Thank you you TLC :-)
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. TLC for Pets is a pet boarding facility which cares for your animals anywhere from 8
hours up to 6 months. We look after all small animals so that pet owners do not have to
drop different animals off at different facilities. The real purpose of our pet resort is to
provide owners with peace of mind that their loved ones are safe and happy while the
owners are out of town. Our business has grown to where it is today by successfully
exceeding our customers’ expectations on a regular basis
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. TLC for Pets has been in business for 9 years. During that time I have won top home
based business of the year and was recognized as one of the top 10 young business
people in Kamloops. TLC for Pets has also been nominated for 15 Chamber of
Commerce awards in 9 years and finished in the top 3 3 times including the year we won
the top home based business award. My business has averaged a growth of 14% gross
revenue every year since its creation. In the last 2 years we expanded our facility by 40%
to meet the growing needs of our customer base
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. We have provided up to 7 young people with a work experience that has allowed them
to build a resume that included exceptional customer service as well as provided them
with funds that allowed them to go to school. 4000 different customers have used our
services to provide them with peace of mind allowing them to go out of town for
vacations or for business.
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Nominee 27: Trish Morelli | Trish Morelli Marketing Solutions
Nominators’ Comments:
1. In the past year, Trish Morelli has brought together Kamloops' founding wineries to form a
marketing association to promote this burgeoning region as well as their individual wineries. As
executive director of the Jamloops Winery Association, she also led the branding and marketing
for the new Kamloops Wine Trail. This project inspired the installation of new highway signage,
prompting tourists and locals to visit and support these wineries. I feel we In Kamloops are so
fortunate to have Trish's vast expertise in this sector and her leadership in launching Kamloops
on the BC Wine map. This project has been excellent for the entire community and she deserves
to be recognized, either as business person of the year, or for the project of the year "The
Kamloops Wine Trail". P.S. I typed this on an iPhone so please excuse any typos or crazy
autocorrects!
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Born and raised in Kamloops, I moved to Vancouver to complete my university degree at
UBC and start my business career. Circumstances led me to the BC wine industry where I
enjoyed 25 successful years gaining experience in every aspect of the industry from
viticulture to sales to marketing. I was part of the successful growth of the BC wine
industry and was awarded a number of marketing and sales awards over the course of
my career. A passion for business, combined with a passion for wine, agritourism and
the joy of seeing others succeed led to the development of my own consulting business
– “Trish Morelli Marketing Solutions”. I am the sole proprietor of this business. The
nature of my business is providing marketing solutions for others. My success is
predicated on the success of others. Whether building a new brand, refreshing an old
brand, or simply trying to generate increased awareness or sales, my philosophy with all
my clients is to treat their business like my own. I work alongside my clients to ensure
that their goals and objectives are clearly defined and a path for success is charted out.
Currently the bulk of my efforts have been focused on the Kamloops Wineries
Association. As the sole business consultant on this project I am responsible for the
development and execution of a strategic plan that has helped put Kamloops on the BC
wine map and has significantly enhanced the awareness for the region and the wineries
within as an exciting new destination for wine touring.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. As a marketing specialist, I was responsible for the development of many key BC wine
brands some of which include, Sandhill, Burrowing Owl, Coppermoon and Mission Hill.
As the Director of Marketing with Mission Hill Family Estate, I was responsible for
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overseeing the growth of the Mission Hill brand from a local producer of 20,000 cases to
a top ranked winery on the international stage selling over 100,000 cases per year. In
2006, I started my own consulting business. While I continued to specialize in wine
marketing, I was also involved in a number of successful contracts outside the wine
industry. After moving back to Kamloops in 2008, I continued my private consulting
business working with clients in Kamloops and around the province. The opening of
Harper’s Trail winery in 2012 caught my attention and eventually led to what I would
call a local highlight in terms of my more recent achievements. Capitalizing on my
25year involvement in marketing BC wine, I was able to apply my knowledge and
experience to the local Kamloops market resulting in the development and launch of the
Kamloops Wineries Association, and what has become a very successful and sustainable
venture for this community. Under the Kamloops Wine Trail umbrella, we have seen
tremendous growth in awareness and sales for our local Kamloops wineries and the
agritourism sector in Kamloops.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. Executing a collaborative strategy in the development of the Kamloops Wineries
Association has had a significant impact not only for the wineries, but also for our entire
community. I have brought together our community in support of a new industry in
Kamloops. I have worked with individual businesses, government and non-profit groups
to develop strategic partnerships that have resulted in new relationships and an
economic benefit to respective organizations. A new wine sector in Kamloops has had a
positive economic impact on our tourism, agriculture, hotel and restaurant industries.
The BC wine industry generates $476 million in tourism related business. If we capture
just 1 % of this for Kamloops, that would result in $4.7 million or 9000 new visitors to
our city per year. In year one we have made a significant headway towards this goal.
Our wineries have reported significant increases in visitors since the launch of the
Kamloops Wine Trail. Successfully winning the battle for BC wine in grocery will provide
a tremendous economic and social value not only for our wineries, but for our entire
community. Council’s reversed decision will go a long way towards creating new jobs,
increasing awareness and sales for our local wineries. In addition to the economic
benefit, a healthy wine industry also brings a social and cultural benefit to our
community. I work hard to foster relationships with the arts, culinary and hospitality
communities so that our residents and tourists to the city can enjoy an enhanced
experience. What makes me a community leader is my passion to see Kamloops be the
best it can be. Whether it’s from tourism, economic or cultural perspective, I am
determined to see Kamloops grow and prosper and take the required steps to achieve
that success.
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Nominee 28: Tyler Meade | Tyler Meade Photography
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Tyler is always doing things for kamloops
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. Tyler Meade, owner/operator of Tyler Meade Photography. Born & raised in beautiful
Kamloops BC. In his home town is where he runs his head office/studio & pushes the art
& technology of professional photography. In 1995 is when this journey of excellence
begins. Over the 20 years Tyler has become clearly know as "The Photographer Guy"
From local independent business to International Corporations, Tyler has proven to
them all that he can always do the job! Constantly expanding, educating and treating
clients like family makes Tyler always the perfect choice. To top it off Tyler is a huge
supporter to many great causes in Kamloops, the Pink Ribbon Foundation, RIH, TRU,
Boogie The Bridge, SD73 and many others. Always giving back!
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Recently Tyler has built up his team and has taken on School Photo Day for SD73 and
private schools, TRU Grads and convocations, Sports leagues photo day and the list
continues to grow. This expansion is endless while he trains staff and adds more clients
monthly. Tyler has many awards for his amazing work. Nominated BC Photographer of
the year, Best in Press BC, Best wedding album BC, Best Figure study BC, Most Creative
BC, Kodak Awarded BC, Best Pictorial BC, Images selected for galleries for BC, Canada
and Internationally, Finalist Young Entrepreneur of Year Kamloops Chamber X2.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. Tyler has changed photography in Kamloops, allowing clients to have the best options
and have it local. Saving time and money for Kamloops businesses. He has also
showcased Kamloops in a way that Tourism Kamloops, ad agencies, hotels, well
everyone can show off how visually amazing this place is. In return bringing many
people to the region for holidays, play, sports or business to name a few. Tyler Meade
Photography Social Media is Huge, he continually promotes Kamloops and the world is
watching. A win for everyone! A small local business is making a large impact.
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Nominee 29: Terry Lowe | Volkswagen of Kamloops
Nominators’ Comments:
1. Continues displays of humility and work ethic as a leader and his strive to be successful while
keeping his ego in check. Sponsored and coaching run club, turtle racing, and all the funds he
gives back to Kamloops.
I have known Terry for 25 years. He always has given me first class service anytime I went to his
store. I have admired how he has conducted himself through the Volkswagen upheaval. He has
remained very much the great businessman that he is. I know he is embarrassed by the poor
publicity but he has held himself above it.
The Turtle Race, the Childrens' Water Park and his contributions to the hospital are just a few of
this things Terry does for the Kamloops community. You are most fortunate to have a man of
Terry's calibre and integrity living and working in your city.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. I own and operate the Volkswagen dealership in Kamloops. We are the designated sales,
service, parts, and warranty facility for Kamloops and the surrounding area. Although I
have only had the VW store for 6 and a half years I have been in the automotive
business in Kamloops for just over 30 years. The bulk of that time was as the owner of
the Saturn franchise for almost 20 years. I was forced to change brands when General
Motors terminated the Saturn brand in North America during their 2008 bankruptcy
reorganization. As the owner of the store I know the stores culture comes primarily
comes from me. From the very early days of being in business I have always had a
simply philosophy, just treat people the way I would want to be treated. This isn’t just
for customers; in fact it is probably more important to operate this way when it comes
to our team members (staff). I have been in the automotive industry my entire adult life
and although our industry may not have the best reputation for how they treat people I
am proud to say that from a personal level I have always done my small part to try and
change that image.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. A few years ago I would have trouble admitting success when the Saturn brand I owned
and operated for 19 plus years failed. I knew the termination of the Saturn brand was
nothing to do with the how we operated locally, it was still hard to accept the failure
and those were some very difficult times. One of the greatest successes was managing
to land the Volkswagen brand in Kamloops shortly after closing the doors on Saturn, at
that time VW had been absent from Kamloops for 12 years. I was able to keep everyone
employed and I am proud to say that not one team member quit while we were making
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the transition. Out of every Saturn store in British Columbia we are the only store that
re-opened with another brand and the hard work has paid off for all of us. We have
been recognized for being a top dealer in Canada multiple times. Prior to the closing of
Saturn we won the newly recognized and prestigious Saturn Summit Award 3 years
running for being a top dealer in sales, service, and customer satisfaction. In the short
time we have been a Volkswagen dealer we have also been recognized with the
Wolfsburg Crest Award for the same achievements in sales, service, and customer
satisfaction. In 2015 we were also one of the largest growth performers in all of Canada
for the Volkswagen brand. All of these awards would not be possible without the skill,
dedication, and effort from our entire team past and present. Like I mentioned at the
beginning success is like a moving target, as much as I enjoy my career, I also enjoy my
work/life balance which is something I can enjoy more today. Some new successes
today are watching team members I have mentored grow in their roles and taking their
empowerment to help continue in leading the store.
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. I suppose by operating a business for over 30 years and keeping my team members
employed for all those years is a fairly significant positive economic benefit. As far as a
social impact I guess what we do would apply both socially and economically based on
the volunteer work that I have spearheaded for almost 20 years. Back in 1997 we
started projects that would help the youth in our community, at the same times as
bringing smiles to their faces. In 1997 we partnered with the City of Kamloops and
helped build a playground in Riverside Park, in the following two years we donated
funds for the McDonald Park playground project as well as contributed funds for an
outdoor basketball court at St. Ann’s Academy. It was then I realized our funds could not
go very far to help these types of projects so I created the Turtle River Race. We are now
in our 15th year holding the fundraising event and with the proceeds from this year’s
race we will have raised over $300,000 for local charities including the BC Wildlife Park,
the Royal Inland Hospital Pediatric Playroom, the Boys and Girls Club of Kamloops, and
most recently we have partnered with Western Canada Theatre to help raise funds for
their Stage One Theatre School. I don’t think of myself as a community leader. I just try
to operate my business the best way I know how, leave some time for myself and my
family, and try to give something back to our community. I was raised to lead by
example and those words from my dad are always we me. I am sure there are many
deserving people who are leaders in our community; I am honoured to be one of the
nominees.
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Nominee 30: Robin Clark | WestJet Airlines
Nominators’ Comments:
1. WestJet is an amazing company with staff/owners that equal what the company stands for.
Robin Clark, Kamloops Base Manager has a consistent work ethic, while still providing the 'fun'
that WestJet is famous for.
Nominee Submission:
1. Provide a short overview/promotion of your business and yourself. State the position that
you hold within your company(ies). (Limit 300 words)
a. WestJet Encore Station Manager - Kamloops. WestJet Airlines has serviced Canadians
for the past 20years and WestJet Encore for the past 3 years - providing Canadians with
a fun, friendly and caring experience. I have worked with WestJet for almost 17years in
various roles (leadership role for the past 14yrs) and in a Station Manager role for the
past 7 years - in Yellowknife, Saskatoon, Penticton and Kamloops.
2. Outline the success you have had within your business career, highlighting more recent
achievements. (Limit 300 words)
a. Stated as a customer service agent, moved to Team Leader the Shift Lead. I was then
accepted into the Airports Mentorship Program (1 of 6 people selected within the
company) to become a Station Manager where I have been for the past 7yrs. I also
managed the Kamloops and Penticton bases as a dual-station manager for 2yrs. I was
nominated for a Heart and Soul Award (internal WestJet recognition program) by the
Kamloops Customer Service Agents, however Managers are not permitted to win so I
could not be a finalist but it was nice to be recognized!
3. Explain how you have personally made a positive economic and/or social impact on our
region. Outline what makes you a leader in the community. (Limit 300 words)
a. I have lead and supported the customer service agents in Kamloops for almost 4yrs now.
I was also leading 10 customer service agents in Penticton at the same time. Although it
was tough to be in 2 places at once, I encouraged both teams to use their best judgment
and their empowerment to help create a remarkable experience for our guests. I work
hard to create positive relationships within the community whether it be with various
organizations and/or 3rd party contractors. I approve Gift of Flight donations to charities
within the Kamloops community to show our support and meet/attend the events
whenever possible to represent WestJet and build relationships.