Meet James! James is originally from Calgary and has been living here in Kelowna for five years now. He is extremely passionate about the importance of mental health and strives to help others in the community that share similar experiences to his.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I'm from Calgary but have resided here for the past 5 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My Partner Charmeyn, she's a gift.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Blenz on Pandosy. It's bright, roomy and all-inclusive.
Describe yourself in one word.
Grateful.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would say Japan, I've read that it is the number one destination in the world to visit.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Cycling the area.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Can I say, too many to list?
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
The most inspiring thing that has happened to me occurs almost daily. Having come from the streets living rough and having no will to live, I managed to pull through and start making a difference in society. In that process, I am blessed to meet people every day dealing with the struggle and with that, they inspire me to continue to share my gift of not only how to get well but how to stay well.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
All of my favorite childhood memories consist of playing sports. It was when I was at my best both physically and mentally.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer at Freedoms Door as well as Ozanam House. Two centers here in town that go to any length to help men find their purpose and live a life that has always seemed to have alluded them.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Wouldn't it be nice if everyone just got along?
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I hit the pavement for a long walk or the apple bowl for a quiet run.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think Kelowna as a whole is doing the best that they can, given limited space. It's very difficult to grow so fast and have answers to everything.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
For sure the weather but also the quiet places in and around Kelowna that often get forgotten.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Create a sustainable living project with a group who share the same passion as me.
Build a soccer field with a clubhouse.
Make it to Japan.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I'm an absolute introvert.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
For sure on Facebook and through my website sangfroidintervention.ca
What is the name of your business/organization?
Sangfroid Intervention and Associates.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I've struggled with alcoholism in my past and I've struggled with my mental health. The combination is a death sentence for many. I truly believe that I'm here to help those in need and provide that service not only here in Kelowna but across the country.
What is the goal of your business?
To give the gift of a solution when all there seems to be is a problem.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Mental health for sure. I still have my ups and downs but the ups are great and the downs don't carry the same weight they used to. Life is manageable and a gift to be a part of.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
One always thinks they wish that things would have been different but in my reality, it has been the acceptance of what has been and learning to grow from the past.
What do you always find yourself saying?
You can do anything you want- trust the processes in front of you.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Never ever ever give up on yourself, even if everyone else has."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
That's a very sensitive subject for me but if these two particular people are reading this, they would know who they are.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Have to support the small guys, they work hard.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
For sure good and contented sobriety.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Lloyd Mcclelland- I don't think he knows how many people he helps and never has any expectations of others. He truly wants the best for everybody.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
My friend and peer, Lloyd.
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!
