Meet Austin. He has lived in Kelowna for 12 years. He is "the tall insurance guy"! He is also passionate about traveling and giving back to his community through Motionball.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I’m originally from Burlington, Ontario. I’ve lived in Kelowna for about 12 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
As everyone who knows me would guess, it is my best friend/brother Travis. No matter what happens when we get together we have the best time, and motivate each other to grow!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
My favourite spot to frequent is Beet'N Boo's. It’s a small local restaurant that serves a mean breakfast, perfect for when I'm running late! They always take care of me!
Describe yourself in one word.
Impromptu.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
El Tunco, El Salvador would be the place I’d like to be instantly placed. A quiet little surf town during the week to relax and catch some waves. Yet on the weekend still busy enough to avoid feeling isolated!
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
The Kelowna lifestyle would have to be living for boating in the summer! In the winter professional hot-tubber.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
All I can say for this one is I have a love/hate relationship with tequila. For more details feel free to ask me in person! Haha
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
During a visit to Africa I had to opportunity to meet the staff and students of the school my family's charity has been sponsoring. During this specific visit I had brought a soccer ball to play during recess. We were all running around having an absolute blast. Unfortunately, there was a very large bush with thorns on it close to the game. A student connected a epic kick which landed directly in the thorn bush, and just like that I thought the game was over. To my dismay the kids ran over without skipping a beat and they began to play again with the flat ball, as if nothing had even happened. No blame, and only slight disappointment, because recess was not over! It stuck with me due to the quick reaction without dwelling on the bad. Even things that seem negative, even things that clearly are, still can be looked at for the positive aspects. Positive aspects can keep you motivated to carry on until the negative ones can be fixed!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I would have to say in classic Canadian fashion some of the best childhood memories were on the ice behind my best friends’ house. They had a small rink and every day after school we would lace up the skates and burn off energy for hours. Not sure what else I was doing though because I still to this day can barely skate.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
In terms of volunteering I help run and participate in an event called Motionball. It's a Special Olympics fundraiser that works on education, integration, celebration of mental disabilities. I was introduced by a close friend of mine to the event and have been hooked ever since. The way I always explain the event to people is think of ‘feild day’ when you were in elementary school. Now imagine ‘field day’ as an adult, plus adding a special Olympic athlete to accompany your team in all the various sports and games! The catch is that these athletes always do a great job of making me realize how out of shape I am! It’s a great time and what's great is that a large portion of the funds raised help our local special Olympic athletes live out their dreams!
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I feel would be an amazing change for the world would be the ability to introspectively, and completely look at and understand other people’s point of view. I think this would lead to more understanding and compassion.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Manhattan Point on the public dock is a nice little escape from all the people downtown!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
Something that has been rapidly changing and I am so excited to see more of is cultural events. Small theatre, local pop-ups, and fun events during weeknights! Anything really to just have fun with the community!
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Location! During the summer we have access to so many riding trails, beaches, and camping spots. Yet in the winter we can enjoy amazing powder on the local hills, or hit the downtown ice rink for a great evening outdoors. Yet in case you need to get away!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Go BASE jumping (this includes finishing my skydiving license)
2. Learn to play the piano
3. Get my car racing license
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I consistently sing music at the top of my lungs in my car, with or without passengers in it.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
I feel like I'm easiest to reach by just calling (its becoming a lost art), but most social media these days I'd say I use Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Southern Insurance. (Auto, boat, and trailer insurance specifically).
Why did you get into/start this business?
I was looking for a more stable position to grow into. I had a passion for all types of vehicles but didn't want to be confined to a desk all day!
What is the goal of your business?
The goal of the business I work for is to provide protection against a possible eventuality. (Yes that's literally the Google definition but its true!)
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
The biggest struggle in life and work would have to be making sure to stay focused on one goal. Instead of having multiple goals unachieved, I’m focusing, executing, THEN back to a new plan!
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I honestly ask myself this question every day. I can say that I wouldn't change a thing. Although if I could I would buy apple stock... in 2008.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"You're right! I am tall!"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Travel, even if its not an option. Still travel.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Hands down I would love to spend a day with Elon Musk. He is a successful entrepreneur, and visionary who does what he says he's going to do. Something I am striving to work towards personally.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Just based on money remaining in the community. It's an easy way for the whole community to win and support each other!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment so far is recently becoming a home owner here in Kelowna! So excited and appreciative of the people around me that made it happen!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My bosses Mike Newman and Kim Warawa. They hired me on about 3 years ago, helped me set goals and achieve them in such a short time period.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Jesse East - Remax Kelowna.
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!
