Meet Manny, he grew up in the small community of Keremeos and moved to Kelowna over ten years ago. Nowadays you can find Manny exploring his passion for community and architecture as he works as a realtor in the Okanagan.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My daughter Mila! It's just amazing watching her grow and learn new things every day. My wife who is also my best friend would be a close second!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Although it's not a local "store" I would say the Kelowna Farmer's Market would be my favourite spot to shop local!
Describe yourself in one word.
Ambitious
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would love to be travelling across Greece right now. I absolutely would love to check out the historic sites like Athens and Olympia and to be able to explore some amazing beaches and islands like Santorini and Mykonos.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love mountain biking our world-class trails and getting out kayaking on Okanagan Lake.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
No comment!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I would say marrying my wife Leanne was the most inspiring thing that has ever happened to me. Since the first day we met she has driven me to be a better person as a husband, a father and for sure a Realtor. I would not be the person I am or have gotten where I have without the support and inspiration I get from my wife.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Anyone that knows me, knows that I have been a die-hard Canucks fan since the day I was born. Growing up on the coast I used to play a lot of hockey and one year I attended a skills camp to further pursue my passion for the sport. On the last day of camp, my coach mentioned that we would have a guest coach us for the day. I didn't think much of it but as we were just finishing up the warm-up drills I remember seeing a guy step out on the ice in a Canucks practice jersey. I looked at him and thought who the heck is this guy?
The guest picked up a puck as he stepped on the ice and threw a pass directly to me. I wasn't ready for it so it bounced off my stick and somehow I managed to end up falling down on the ice. Next thing I know the guy is skating over to help me up and as I stood up I realized it was Mattias Ohlund from the Vancouver Canucks. I had watched this guy play hockey on T.V. all the time. He spent the day skating with us and it was an amazing experience. I was completely in shock after and probably didn't stop talking about it for a long time.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I think Mamas for Mamas does an amazing job of supporting local parents and kids in need and I am very grateful to be able to support their initiative.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
World leaders should be making decisions for the future of the planet and all its inhabitants, based on science, research and analysis instead of economic or political growth.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I enjoy getting out on the road on my bike it really helps clear my head with a busy work schedule.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would absolutely love to see Kelowna become a mini Silicon Valley of the north. I think attracting more tech-based businesses and entrepreneurs could make Kelowna a major Canadian tech hub and that would be fantastic for our community and our local economy.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Hands down the community!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Travel and explore the world with my wife and daughter!
- Learn Kite Boarding
- Buy an Ariel Atom for track days at Area 27
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am a strong believer in Blockchain technology changing the world!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram & Facebook
What is the name of your business/organization?
Manny Brar - Engel & Volkers Okanagan
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have always had a passion for real estate and architecture. I thoroughly enjoy every aspect of providing top tier service to all my clients.
What is the goal of your business?
To make buying, selling & investing in Real Estate to be as painless and enjoyable as possible for all my clients.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Finding personal time to relax and unwind from a busy work schedule.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I strongly believe that every step, positive or negative creates the person you are and where you end up. So no, I wouldn't change anything at all!
What do you always find yourself saying?
Be Positive!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"You miss a 100% of the shots you don't take. - Wayne Gretzky" - Michael Scott
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
It would be pretty cool to spend a full day picking the brain of Ryan Serhant. I would try to soak up as much as possible from him about real estate, sales, marketing, and branding. Even to just follow him around New York for a full day would be an awesome experience!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It's imperative to support your local community and entrepreneurs, that's what creates the strength of a community!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
For sure holding my daughter Mila for the first time… wow!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My Mom & Dad! Because why not!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Rebecca Stacey
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!
