Meet Amanda! Amanda is originally from Trail, BC and has been living here in Kelowna with her family for 30 years now. She enjoys hiking the scenic trails in the Okanagan and spending quality time with her loved ones.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born in the small Kootenay town of Trail. My family and I moved to Kelowna in 1989 and never left. Kelowna is my home and I love it very much.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My two beautiful kids, Caidence and Cohen and my new nephew Bennett.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Kakuli Cafe. They are always friendly and they have the best Bannock selection around.
Describe yourself in one word.
Resilient.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Scotland. To explore my family history.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking in the mountains that surround the beautiful Lake Okanagan.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Not long ago, someone put a rubber snake in my desk drawer. It scared me so badly that I couldn't return to my office for the rest of the day. The staff had a good laugh.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I can honestly say that I am inspired every single day by the clients that I get to work with. Watching people defy the odds and push past the barriers of their recovery, not only to succeed but to thrive, is something I will never be able to justify with words.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Exploring the orchards with my sisters and family dog, Honda. I can still smell the apples and see the blossoms.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Over the years and my time in the non-profit sector, I have volunteered and supported clients with volunteering for the Kelowna Community Foodbank. I have loads of respect for the staff that run the organization and totally support the work that they do within our community.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Selfishness. I would love to see the world wake up to the realization that we are all on this life journey together. We need each other.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Kalamoir Park.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
The rising cost of living in Kelowna. From renting to mortgages, affordable housing needs to be an achievable goal for the folks that have called Kelowna home for decades.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Okanagan Lake is in my bones. I have been swimming in that lake since I was a baby and I believe it is Kelowna's greatest asset.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Backpack through Europe with no plans and only a map
2. Start a jazz/blues band
3. Develop and run an equine therapy program for young moms at risk
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I grew up singing at rodeos and the national anthems for sports teams.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook, Instagram, BrainTrust Canada Website.
What is the name of your business/organization?
BrainTrust Canada where I am the Group Programs Education Manager.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have always been passionate about the non-profit world. I am passionate about helping individuals who often go under-supported and unrecognized.
What is the goal of your business?
To provide support, education and prevention for those who have sustained concussion and brain injury.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Maintaining the balance between work and self-care.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would try to not take things so seriously, do my best and let the rest go.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"What's right about today?"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"It's not over until you say it's over. Never stop trying."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Dr Gabor Mate. I would love to pick his brain on ways to integrate ancient and holistic practices into my work in trauma and addictions. His grassroots person-centred approach is something that I deeply admire.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
When you shop locally you not only know exactly where your product is coming from, but you are putting income back into the pockets of your neighbours, colleagues and friends. Again, we have to stick together.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising two intelligent, socially responsible kids as a single mom here in Kelowna. It's been tough but by far my proudest moment.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Marcie McLoed, for continually pushing me out of my comfort zone and believing my abilities to succeed.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Noelle Nadeau Khoo.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
