Meet James. James was born and raised here in Kelowna! He enjoys biking and hiking the beautiful trails here in the Okanagan, collecting various rocks/gems, and spending some quality time with his family.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I am from Kelowna, went to Rutland Jr/Sr and Graduated from Mount Boucherie in 1995.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My Daughters. 3 girls ages 4, 6, and 9. They make everyday fun and teach me lessons on joy every day.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
HBB coffee is a local lady named Sue that works as an owner/operator. Love supporting entrepreneurs that work hard and smile all the way.
Describe yourself in one word.
Curious.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Italy. I lived in the north for 45 days last summer and loved every moment of the authentic Italian lifestyle.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Biking
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
On tour with UBC Rugby as a rookie on tour, we had to wear a woman’s G-string over top of our underwear. Every time the senior boys yelled "dirty birdy" we had to drop our pants where ever we were and show them we had it on. Many, many places.....
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Being able to work with and support young entrepreneurs and see them grow, expand, and flourish. I love seeing others succeed independent of myself.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My granny. Picking raspberries and then making raspberry jam together every summer. She was the kindest lady I have ever known. I still make raspberry jam to remember her.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Lots. Futurepraneur (mentor), Kelowna Yacht Club (Director), Okanagan Suns (Strength Coach), Canadian a Kinesiology Alliance (Director), and mentoring with young a Kinesiologists daily at The Athlete Den helping them expand their toolset.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Scarcity.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Bear Creek Park for a hike.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
Socially. Growing up here, there have always been challenges. Lately, it appears development means more than the needs of residents and low income/at-risk individuals. We need to develop a comprehensive plan that helps all find a path to abundance.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Families.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Live in Italy for a year
2. Climb to Everest base camp
3. Ensure my daughters are content, happy, and feel loved in 10 years.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I collect rocks/gems.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn
What is the name of your business/organization?
The Athlete Den
Why did you get into/start this business?
My love for Kinesiology.
What is the goal of your business?
To support other entrepreneurs.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Balance.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
The same.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Be curious.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Be grateful every day."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My wife, Cinzia.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It supports local businesses and entrepreneurs.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My girls.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Lee Turner, his care and compassion for car accident clients.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Chris Burton.
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!
