Special Features - Women in Business 2014 by Black Press Media Group

Women Business in

2014

The 22 n d a nnua l c eleb ra tion of Okana ga n w o men a n d t heir suc c esses.

Proudly Supporting Women in Business

Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. 250.869.0101

A S S U R A N C E R E A LT Y L T D .

251 Harvey avenue, Kelowna BC V1Y 6C2

Connected to More™

Kaludia Ceglarz

@KlaudiaGlobal

ANNETTE LIPKOVITS

JACKIE LARGE

Licensed REALTOR®

annette.lipkovits@century21.ca

jackie.large@century21.ca

If you are buying or selling property, you deserve to work with an award winning local REALTOR® who loves what she does and loves where she lives - someone who will work her hardest for you and provide the expertise you need to make sound decisions. With Amanda as your guide, you can make the most of your opportunities in the Okanagan market and get more out of your real estate experience. Amanda wants you to love where you live!

Annette was born & raised in Kelowna and is married to a local firefighter. They take advantage of Kelowna’s 4-season playground enjoying local lakes in the summer & mountains in the winter. Annette has been involved in the Real Estate industry building & selling homes for over 25 years.

Jackie appreciates Kelowna and all that it has to offer! She is a 3rd generation Kelowna resident and has been a REALTOR® here for over 11 years. She enjoys travel, connecting with others, personal development, fitness and spending time with family and friends. Jackie loves this business because she thrives on change, has an adventurous spirit and is very dedicated to what she does!

@ttannas_global

@weslawong

Angela Jung

AMANDA WESTRHEIM

amanda.westrheim@century21.ca

Toby Tannas

Wesla Wong

www.c21assurance.com

JANET SIME

KIM WALDHERR

LISA MOLDENHAUER

Licensed REALTOR®

janet.sime@century21.ca

kim.waldherr@century21.ca

lisa.moldenhauer@century21.ca

I have a wealth of knowledge and skill from my 30 years of expertise in real estate. I enjoy the Okanagan lifestyle with my family and friends. My interests are yoga, health and wellness, horses, music, and travel. I welcome all calls regarding your next move! Call today 250-469-3880.

Kim has been a Realtor® with Century 21 Kelowna for the past 9 years. She and her family have lived in Kelowna since 1997, moving from Saskatoon. She enjoys the four seasons with skiing, golf, wineries, lakes and more.

Lisa’s family has enjoyed the Okanagan lifestyle since 1995 and can’t imagine living anywhere else. With a busy family life involving sports and cultural events and an active real estate career, Lisa says “it just doesn’t get any better!” Lisa has been an award-winning Realtor® for the past eight years.

MAUREEN YAKIMCHUK

MONIQUE KAETLER

SANDRA CIOLFI

Licensed REALTOR®

@jungangela

Doris Bregolisse

Lauren Pullen

@Lauren_Global

@Global_Doris

Your Okanagan. Your News. Globalnews.ca/okanagan

maureen.yakimchuk@century21.ca

monique.kaetler@century21.ca

sandra.ciolfi@century21.ca

Maureen is a grateful prairie transplant loving every minute of her life in the Okanagan with her young family. She loves her busy life of family, sports, travel and, of course, her dynamic and FUN career in real estate. She pinches herself daily, “living the dream,” never having to pack up and leave the Okanagan playground!

Monique and her family have enjoyed the Okanagan Life for 25 years, she enjoys the outdoors in rural areas and the likes to play tourist in her own town. She likes working with people and making memories that MOVE you.

Sandra has lived in Kelowna for 15 years after moving from North Vancouver. She started her Real Estate career 11 years ago and loves it! Sandra has over 30 years experience in sales & marketing and is involved with Easter Seals fundraising. She enjoys golf, skiing, Italian cooking, and is an avid Kelowna Rockets hockey fan.

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CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z3

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

We Take Your SucceSS PerSonallY At the Hymers Wealth Management Group of RBC Dominion Securities, we take great pride in helping our clients achieve their goals. Our team is a leader in the Okanagan, with the expertise to guide you through an increasingly complex financial world. We’re focused on business owners, professionals, parents and grandparents like you—people who value security and a trusting relationship with their financial advisors. We put you first, working to bring you peace of mind and giving you the freedom to pursue your own unique journey. Our goal is to establish a longterm relationship with you, guiding you and your wealth through every stage of your life.

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To learn more about our approach, or for a complimentary second opinion on your current investment portfolio, please contact us today.

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hymeRs wealth management gRoup of RBc dominion secuRities Suite 1100 – 1708 Dolphin Avenue Kelowna, BC V1Y 9S4 Phone: 250-712-2148 Toll-free: 1-877-308-4766 www.rhondahymers.com

Recognized foR exceptional seRvice Rhonda Hymers was the recipient of the 2012 Leo Award for RBC Dominion Securities Advisors across Canada—the first Advisor to have ever received this honour from the firm. The Leo Award is the highest honor any RBC employee can receive as part of the RBC Performance program. It recognizes those individuals who continuously put their clients’ interests front and centre, make an exceptional contribution to their business areas and the company as a whole, and demonstrate RBC values. Approximately 80 employees (or just 0.1% of all RBC employees) receive the award each year.

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. © RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 2014. All rights reserved.

Z4 5 Women in Business 2014

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CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z5

EDC marketing the region to new business Alistair Waters ASSISTANT EDITOR

For Corrie Griffiths, business development officer with the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission, the key to attracting new business to this area is to keep the businesses that are already here healthy and to help them grow. “For new business to locate here, we need strong existing businesses,” says Griffiths, adding that between 65 per cent and 80 per cent of new jobs in this area will be created by companies already operating here. This success-breeds-success strategy for attracting new companies to the Central Okanagan is a key part of what the EDC is doing these days as it works to help the region’s economy grow. But like the businesses it helps, the EDC has its work cut out for itself in a time of increased regional, national and global competition. As one of the fastest growing areas in Canada, the Central Okanagan has many advantages, including both lifestyle and business-related, and it’s the EDC’s job to sell potential newcomers on the merits of locating here. So being able to point to established and ongoing success is a helpful tool, she says. But there are also challenges, including some of the

Corrie Griffiths very things that are helping fuel positive changes here. For instance, a growing population is helping bring more amenities to the area as newcomers bring ideas from where they lived before arriving here. But that same population growth is also affecting other areas such as property values and the need for expanded municipal services which impact taxes. Housing prices are on the rise and considered high here compared with the rest of the country—a consideration for a company when deciding to come here. While it cannot directly impact areas of jurisdiction controlled by municipalities in the Regional District of the Central Okanagan, the EDC does provide information to help local politicians as they wrestle with issues such as tax rates, services, amenities. But despite those challenges, Griffiths sees the Cen-

tral Okanagan as a place with plenty to offer companies looking to either relocate or set up shop. With a university offering research and development opportunities and helping to train a top class workforce, a college offering a myriad of skills training opportunities, and an airport with direct links to other major Canadian and U.S. centres, Kelowna is seeing interest from outside business investors, said Griffiths. Part of her responsibilities are technological attraction and the lucrative Alberta market, two of the areas where the Central Okanagan is making major headway. While the recent announcement about direct flights from Kelowna to Fort McMurray is good news for the thousands of locals who work in the Alberta Oil Sands industry, it is not the first connection. Griffiths said there are already a number of companies here that supply parts and equipment to that industry. During one of the EDC’s recent Business Walks—a local initiative where municipal, business and provincial officials went door-to-door asking businesses how they are doing and what they need to succeed and what they would like to see happen here—a large number of small industrial businesses were identified, many operating in the

city’s north end. Griffiths, an American who emigrated to Canada 11 years ago and has been with the EDC for the past seven years, has a background in both the public and private sector having worked for several years with the State of

California parks department in research and planning. She said the Business Walk, which has been held three times here, not only helps the EDC stay in touch with what local business needs but also lets the local and provincial governments

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Financial Service Manager

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Christine Warmington

Financing a vehicle is a CHRYSLER DODGE CHRYSLER DODGE Loving the Okanagan!!! complicated puzzle with JEEP JEEP Moving here from Saskatchewan has been many pieces: the vehicle one of my best decisions. Being a finance manager chosen, the vehicle traded, the for over 9 years, has allowed me to be confident in presenting a variety of products such as, financing and guest’s budget, their long term goals, leasing options, warranties, credit protection and vehicle their current and past credit, and the appearance packages. I can offer people all the protection they want and need for their ▼ HOME DEPOT information needed to make an informed decision. loan and their vehicle. What I love the most about my career is that I Find us on BOTH sides of help people get what they want! The vehicle Ultimately, my goal and desire, is to ENTERPRISE WAY at LECKIE that they have always wished that they make the puzzle pieces all fit together 97 could own, or the vehicle that is going to be ▼ GREYHOUND perfectly, drawing the best picture for N BUS DEPOT ▼ BEST the safest, and most comfortable for their 97 Leckie WESTERN y. families. I take pride in what I do, I feel great the guest. What I love about working Road Hw in knowing that people trust me in dealing at Kelowna Chrysler is that every day I ▼ CANADIAN with their personal credit information. The 97 TIRE have the opportunity to work with these best part for me, is when we are sharing the N puzzles, and in the end, make a beautiful picture excitement of their new vehicle knowing that 97 ▼ SAFEWAY y. Hw I helped them accomplish this, and in some for each of our guests. cases, what they thought they couldn’t achieve.

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Z6 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Barb Lee Barb is new to Kelowna. Originally from Quebec and lived in the South Surrey area for 6 years, Barb moved here with her husband Ray and purchased the DirectBuy of Central Okanagan club, which has been servicing the interior of BC at the same location for the last 12 years. Barb enjoys meeting all the existing members and helping new families join our membership club to save 30%, 40% even 50% compared to sale prices on anything you can think of for inside and outside your home and now we have travel savings for all our members! If you are thinking of building, buying, remodeling or looking for savings on everyday purchases for your home and travel, you owe it to yourself to come in and learn about DirectBuy. Give us a call to set up an appointment for one of the open houses so you can find out how you can live better with the money you have and why our 1000’s of BC members enjoy the savings on all their needs! We have people coming in that always say, “I should have come sooner, I don’t know why I waited so long to come in!” Find out what you’ve been missing out on. Call to set up an appointment today and ask for me, Barb Lee. I look forward to meeting you!

#5 – 2260 Hunter Road Kelowna, BC V1X 7J8 250 763 4130

Kathy York Another fantastic year! Thank you again for all your support. I continue to enjoy my career as a licensed Real Estate Agent. Living and working in the Okanagan is a blessing. The continued support of my friends, family and clients is greatly appreciated. Working together is the key to a successful transaction and those who have experienced my dedication, positive attitude and professionalism have not been disappointed. For the smile that keeps on giving, pick up the phone and make the call. I would love to hear from you!

Your Kelowna Born and Raised Real Estate Agent

250.870.1810

www.kathyyork.ca kathyyork@shaw.ca

Media can offer unique job opportunities Barry Gerding

University working with students. While she enjoyed working with her student piers “I just felt there had to be more to life than this,” sitting behind a desk surrounded by those four Wesla Wong didn’t see a future for herself walls. working in an office with no windows. Tj found her dream career early on and So she moved to Kelowna for the first time, lived by the adage of “giving it 110 per cent” despite her friends and family telling her she of her commitment and effort to find success. was crazy to leave her marketing job. Both are working today in Kelowna’s “It was a great job but it just wasn’t for media market, Wong as the Global Okanagan me,” she said. TV weather forecaster and Tj who, along with Wong moved to Kelowna and worked both her husband Andy, has hostin freelance marketing and parted the longest running morning time for CHBC, radio and the radio show in Kelowna for the Shaw community television last 11 years. station. This is the second go-around “I had planned to stay here locally for Wong, who worked when the Global job came up at different local media outand I decided to move back lets and did freelance marketto Vancouver and pursue that. ing until she landed an on-air The timing wasn’t the greatest job eight years ago with Global because I had just completed BC in Vancouver, which led her building a new house and then I to become part of that station’s was moving again,” Wong said. successful morning show. While in Vancouver, she deWesla Wong cided to pursue a post-graduate “A lot of people thought I degree online in meteorology, was nuts to move to Kelowna enrolling in a program offered when I did originally, and then by Mississippi State. “Most of they thought I was nuts to move it was taking courses online but back again,” Wong laughs. I did have to go to the campus But Wong says she was down there for some of it.” growing tired of getting up at Besides becoming a bona2:45 a.m. on weekdays to do fide weather forecaster, the the Global BC morning show, course also changed her life in and the prospect of buying a another way—she began a relahouse in the Lower Mainland tionship with one of her fellow seemed an increasingly impossible dream. meteorology students, Duane She wanted to find a balance English. Tj between work and lifestyle, and The two would mutualshe didn’t see the Vancouver real ly come to a decision it was time estate market as enhancing that opportunity. to leave the Vancouver rat race and relocate “After a while you get tired of renting, to Kelowna, with no immediate job prospects moving from rental to rental, with no hope for either beyond the idea of starting up a freeof being able to save enough to make a down lance weather forecasting service. payment on a house.” But after returning to the Okanagan, longWong grew up in North Vancouver and attime Global Okanagan weather forecaster tended Capilano University to obtain her deMike Roberts announced his retirement, and gree in criminology, with the idea of working an opportunity for Wong and English to take for CSIS, the Canadian Security Intelligence over the on-air weather forecasting duties for Service. But after graduation, she faced the Global Okanagan was created. prospect of having to move to Ottawa to pur“It’s been really great in that both Duane sue that dream, something she didn’t find atand I get to discuss the weather, go over the tractive. She then got a marketing job at Capilano See Media Z9 EDITOR

Debbie Korbyck, Tanya LeBarron, Jill Petrucci, Alyson Basnett, Kacy Miller, Tracy Hamilton, Leah Bebbington, Debbie Copp, Naleesa Caouette (left to right) DEBBIE KORBYCK – SENIOR SERVICE ADVISOR: Has been a Service Advisor for 37 years. Debbie achieves one of the highest customer satisfaction scores in Hyundai Canada. TANYA LEBARRON - FINANCIAL SERVICES DIRECTOR. Has been in the automotive industry since 2004 starting in sales and insurance, and specializes in all our customer financing needs. JILL PETRUCCI - ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. Jill is the face of our dealership and keeps us all

organized. ALISON BASNETT - FINANCIAL SERVICES MANAGER at the Buy Direct Truck Centre with 10 years experience in the automotive industry. KACY MILLER - NEW AND USED VEHICLE CONSULTANT. Kacy used to work in the service industry at Boomers before joining Kelowna Hyundai where she is excelling in her automotive career. TRACY HAMILTON – CONTROLLER: Tracy has been with the dealership for 10 years and heads up administration. LEAH BABINGTON - FINANCIAL SERVICES MANAGER. Leah joined the finance team after several years as a professional skater. DEBBIE COPP - USED INVENTORY MANAGER. Joined Kelowna 3 months ago. She has over 15 years in the industry. NALEESA CAOUETTE - HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER. She joined Kelowna Hyundai and Buy Direct Truck Centre in August 2013.

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CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z7

Following the career trail to Fort McMurray Wade Paterson STAFF REPORTER

It’s no secret working in northern Alberta is common for residents of the Okanagan. According to Robert Fine of the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission, approximately 5,000 residents currently make their way to the Fort McMurray area for work on a regular basis. Most of the workers are male; however, with WestJet Encore’s recent announcement of regularly scheduled flights to Fort McMurray from Kelowna, working in northern Alberta may be an increasingly appealing option for women in the community as well. Although Abra Playfair isn’t from the Okanagan, she is able to shed light on what women can expect if they choose to search for work in northern Alberta. Playfair became a paramedic in January 2010; she’s worked part-time for BC Ambulance Service ever since. Although she enjoys the job, she wasn’t thrilled with the pay cheque. So, in late 2010, she began looking on the Internet to see if there were better paying job opportunities up north. “I found a company and got hired with them immediately.” Playfair says she remembers feeling nervous before she began her new job. And, at first, it wasn’t easy. Her fellow male crew members used vulgar language and often talked about what she calls: “Men

Kara Sangha Cell: (250)863-1274 Email: kara.apf@gmail.com

The “

Kara Sangha, Realtor • Serving the Okanagan since 2004

”Team

• Various business experience (had an Indian-clothing shop, ran a taxi company)

Connected with an international client base through Karen•Stephens Cell: (250)575-2387 immigration consultants that she works closely with

“Providing Service with Integrity!”

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Email: k.stephens@shaw.ca

• A Rutland Unified Stakeholder Team (R.U.S.T.) Member (working to re-make the image of www.movingwithkaren.com “Rutland” and making other improvements) • Works closely with some of Kelowna’s best mortgage consultants

Our 15 years of combined real estate experience allows us the ability to tailor our service provides positive, both Real Estate, and Insurance/Investments services uniquely to suit our clients. We strive to provide• aAnd personalized, one-of-a-kind service.

• Kara has worked with a wide range of people, and has always striven to make the real estate

process smooth as possible for everyone. She is honest, and reliable; a shareholder in a We truly love and appreciate the relationships we’ve built as with our existing Clients and new real-estate company, she now runs her own branch in Kelowna. Providing personalized Associates, and are always open and happy to build new ones!

and informative services to each client, Kara works hard to make your dream home a reality!

160 Rutland Rd. N Kelowna, BC V1X 3B2 Phone: (778)753-5899 Fax: (778)753-5844

CONTRIBUTED

ABRA Playfair says working up north may be a good option

160 Rutland Road N Kelowna, BC V1X 3B2 Phone: (778)753-5899 / Cell: (250) 863-1274 www.alwaysreliablerealestate.com Fax: (778)753-5844

for some women, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. things.” Playfair was always one of the guys growing up, so she was able to fit in with her crew but, she admits, that might not be the case for everyone. “You have to be a certain kind of woman to be able to work with that many men around you,” she says. “At first it was really hard. There were lots of phone calls to mom; lots of phone calls to my best friend.” But for women who are still interested in the opportunities working up north can bring, there are several positives. After getting through several days—in Playfair’s case, 21—of hard work, employees often get several days off in a row. And during the days they work their bank account is being filled with a sizeable income.

For those in the Okanagan, WestJet Encore recently announced the airline would begin daily, non-stop service to and from Fort McMurray, starting in May. “The new WestJet Encore daily flight to Fort Mac is going to have a huge impact on our region,” says Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray. “For those who live in the Okanagan and work up north, this new service means a better work-life balance, getting them back home to their families and spending less time between flights.” Although there are challenges—especially for women—associated with working up north, Playfair says she grew to love the work. wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com Twitter: @PatersonWade

Baths by Design was founded in 1992 by Mary Ann Gill, who at 27, saw the need for a consumerfocused plumbing fixture showroom that offered leading edge design and unsurpassed : quality at an affordable price. The w ro ck ba tant Left to right, room Consul showroom has doubled in size since ow Sh n, an Melissa Baum , Lead Glass Installer 1992 to its current 3400 square feet. Karla Gill Front row: , Instrumental in bringing products om Manager ann, Showro ner” um ea cl Amanda Ba t to the Kelowna areas that were ile “to , ill G nn Mary A well recognized throughout the world, but yet unheard of in the Okanagan valley, Baths by Design has built its reputation as the place to go for products that are not sold by local mainstream suppliers. As pioneers in their field, Baths by Design was responsible for bringing brands such as Hansgrohe, Grohe and Franke to the Kelowna area, these are now staples in the local industry.

Having long-term, worldwide relationships with over 50 suppliers Baths by Design is able to offer same day order processing, extremely fast delivery and best of all WHOLESALE pricing to the public, meaning that there is no tiered pricing structure with different discounts for different clients. “We built our business on giving value. The best product for the least amount of money." Products are C.S.A. approved and bear the best warranties in the business. Celebrating 22 years in Kelowna, Baths by Design will continue to provide the Okanagan valley and the surrounding areas with the top quality products and service for which they are known. We offer kitchen and bath faucets and sinks, bathroom accessories, toilets, bidets, bath tubs, shower units, custom shower glass and doors in an assortment of styles and colors. Bathroom and kitchen sinks hand made out of solid granite, bamboo, travertine, concrete, glass and various metals as well as free standing volcanic limestone tubs, air tubs, and everything plumb. Stop by the exquisite showroom at 451 Banks Road to meet the staff and check out the newest and most exciting plumbing fixtures available on the market today.

451 Banks Road, Kelowna • 250-762-7771 • www.bathsbydesign.net

Z8 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

New wine association focuses on marketing Wade Paterson STAFF REPORTER

Although the West Kelowna Vintners Association has only officially been in existence for a few months, the same group has been marketing the Westside Wine Trial for quite some time.

Tina Slamka, wine shop manager at Little Straw Vineyards and president of the West Kelowna Vintners Association, says there are currently eight wineries represented by the association: • Kalala Organic Estate Winery • Mission Hill Family Estate

• Quails’ Gate Estate Winery • Volcanic Hills Estate Winery • Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery • Beaumont Family Estate Winery • Little Straw Vineyards • Rollingdale Winery. Along with each winery’s individual marketing efforts,

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Slamka says they have found it beneficial to put an effort into marketing the Westside Wine Trail in general. The WKVA president says business is currently good for the wineries, and people are continuing to recognize the Westside Wine Trail as a destination. On Feb. 9, wineries along the Westside Wine Trail put on the third annual Sip with your Sweetheart event. It originated in 2012 to get locals out during a typically slow winter month. “It was something we thought would be a great way to get everybody out, doing something local—kind of play in your own backyard. “It’s been over-the-top successful.” Sip with your Sweetheart is one of three main events the WKVA puts on annually. According to Slamka the Valentine’s Day-themed event is the most successful. “Last year we doubled what we had thought would come…it was spectacular.” One of the reasons the event has been so successful is due to the diversity of what each winery offers. The concept is each winery offers a tasting, paired with a dessert of some sort. “Every winery kind of has

WADE PATERSON/CAPITAL NEWS

TINA Slamka, wine shop manager at Little Straw Vineyards,

pours a few glasses at the 2014 Sip with your Sweetheart event held Feb. 9. their own take on it—their own kind of uniqueness. And that’s what actually makes it such a great event—you can have a different experience at each winery,” Slamka says. Part of the association’s goal will be continuing to let local governments, as well as the province, know what its needs are and how business can be improved. According to Slamka, the local governments have already assisted in the associ-

ation’s efforts. “They’ve been a huge help in starting this association in the first place,” says Slamka. “Without District of West Kelowna…without Westbank First Nation, this wouldn’t exist. “They were hugely instrumental in kind of bringing us together and helping us over the last couple of years to get to the point we’re at now.” wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com Twitter: @PatersonWade

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CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z9

Passion needs to be coupled with drive and commitment Media from Z6

graphs, and determine what the forecast will be,” she said. “As a meteorologist, it’s really nice to have someone to bounce ideas off and interpret what the forecasting information is predicting rather than just having that discussion with yourself.” She said living in Kelowna now, she is happy to have what she calls a normal life. While the glamour of being a TV personality can be enticing, the hours and the stress take their toll. “I get up in the morning now and look out the window and say to myself,’ Oh my God, I am so lucky to live in Kelowna. “It’s interesting how

‘‘

IT’S INTERESTING HOW THINGS WORK OUT IN YOUR LIFE. Wesla Wong

things work out in your life. What I do now is not what I was thinking of doing when I went to university, but it all seems to have worked out in the end.” For Tj, working in radio was a career choice that came to her early growing up in Kelowna. She wanted to get into the

radio business and got her first job working at the radio station CKIQ in 1987, which was owned then by current Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray. She did everything at that station, from getting on-air gigs to marketing to blowing up balloons at weekend remote locations. It was the education that today students look for in attending broadcasting schools. And it cemented her love for broadcasting, something she remains passionate about still today. She left Kelowna for Edmonton to work in a larger media market, but she and her husband now are happy to be working these past 11 years at 101.5 EZ Rock. “That is the prime time in

broadcasting, to have a morning show, but it means my husband and I get up at 3:45 a.m. Monday to Friday,” she said. “By the end of the week on Friday night at 7 p.m. it’s hard to stay awake.” Besides the odd hours, Andy and Tj also have a blended family of six kids, three of whom still live at home. “It’s tough in the media

Daffodil Ball fundraiser supports cancer society The Sparkling Hill Resort will host the 10th Annual Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Ball. This black-tie dinner, dance and auction takes place Saturday, April 26, 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. The featured entertainer this year will be Jon Stetson, who skillfully combines the art of mystery with the science of psychology and the power of intuition to create the impression that nothing is impossible. Tickets are $250 each.

$375,000 Your support of the Daffodil Ball helps the Canadian Cancer Society fund childhood cancer research, sustain programs for families living with this disease and lead prevention programs dedicated to stopping cancer before it starts. You can purchase your tickets directly online at www.daffodilballbc.com or contact Barbara Ann Wastrodowski, the Daffodil Ball coordinator, by email at kelownadaffodilball@ bc.cancer.ca or call 250-762-6381.

business sometimes to find that balance between work and family, and that was really harder when the kids were younger…but it gets easier as the kids get older and we are fortunate that I have family who live in Kelowna, so we have a support network there.” “I have loved the opportunity to be on radio and I still love it today. To me it’s the ul-

timate job and hopefully I will get to continue doing it for another 10 to 15 years until I retire,” she said. “Like anything in life, if you have a career dream you feel passionate about, go for it and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. “If you are passionate about it and give it a 110 per cent commitment, you will give yourself the opportunity to be successful.”

Jackie Bridge Jackie Bridge, originally from White Rock, BC relocated to Kelowna last year in order to join the Kelowna Kia Team. Jackie has over 20 years of banking experience, of which 10 have been as an Automotive Financial Services Manager. Her strength is identifying creative and affordable options that satisfy the varying needs of her clients. Drop by Kelowna Kia and put Jackie’s expertise to work for you today.

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BDO is one of the leading accounting and advisory firms in Canada with our strengths firmly rooted in the communities we serve. Our professionals combine personalized, local advice and service with national resources and experience. BDO has over 90 years of experience providing value-added assurance, accounting, tax and advisory services to a broad range of clients across the country. Our team of more than 3,000 partners and professionals has the industry knowledge and expertise to understand your professional needs. From Vancouver, British Columbia to St. John’s, Newfoundland, we build strong relationships with businesses and communities coast to coast.

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Z10 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Deanne Neufeld BSW, MSW, RSW

Deanne Neufeld is a registered therapist and owner of Heart to Heart Counselling and has over 16 years of counselling experience. Deanne works extensively with couples as well as individuals with issues ranging from life transition, personal growth, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, coping with stress and illnesses, and spiritual well being. Deanne utilizes a holistic approach focusing on strengths and solutions. She has the ability to draw from numerous treatment techniques to meet the needs of individual clientele and has devoted her time to facilitating insight, providing support and teaching coping skills to enhance functioning and life satisfaction. Deanne is a dynamic speaker and has presented and facilitated at Social Work Conferences, Health Region In-Services, Ministry of Health Initiatives, Patient Safety and Quality Forums, Kelowna Women in Business events and will be presenting at the Oxford Symposium - June 2014 in Hong Kong. Connect with Deanne and see how her energy and creativity can help to transform your life today.

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NASHAT Tasnim (left) and friend and fellow mentee Heather Blackwell in the atrium at UBCO for the WISE end of year celebration in 2013.

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CONTRIBUTED

From the moment Nishat Tasnim begins to speak, her remarkable cocktail of kindness, intelligence and moxie shines. She’s careful to point out her hometown of Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and to place the country beside India on the off chance those around her aren’t geography buffs or travellers. This natural ability to accommodate others’ needs without being asked is a rare trait; it’s easy to see why she was recommended for the International Leaders of Tomorrow full-ride scholarship which brought her to the University of British Columbia Okanagan. Her choice of campus requires a little explanation given Kelowna’s proximity, a seemingly small-town off the beaten path, for an international student with academic ambitions. “I think for me the best part of UBCO, over the Vancouver campus, was the more closeknit community. I like what it offered in terms of the landscape and the location, the topography,” she said. A biology major in her third year, Tasnim embodies the term community leader, transi-

tioning from student body president in Dhaka to a university organizer who tries to volunteer every day in her new Canadian home, whether it’s by organizing present wrapping at Christmas or helping at the Kelowna Community Food Bank over the summer. This penchant to help seems innate, but it’s also a conscious decision stemming from a connection with winemaker Karen Gillis, a mentor who helped highlight how critical each moment of her university career is and the importance of making it count. Volunteering is part of this equation for Tasnim. “It’s grounded in gratitude and a responsibility I feel I need to hold up,” she explained. “The university has given me a big opportunity and I want to do what I can do to deserve such a great opportunity.” Tasnim’s quest to get involved started well before she arrived on campus when she began corresponding with one of her first-year professors, Trudy Kavanagh, a senior instructor in physical geography who was teaching a course on the flora and fauna of the area. Kavanagh heads the organizing commit-

See Students Z11

Kelowna Toyota will be celebrating 44 years in business this April! The staff at Kelowna Toyota, many whom have been coming to work for decades, know our product well and have aligned themselves with the Toyota attitude of “Make Things Better”. This philosophy is evident in all aspects of the dealership, from sales and leasing, to service and customer care. The success of Kelowna Toyota is in part the dedicated staff who are consistently providing knowledgeable and quality service. They are all there to make your experience at Kelowna Toyota as enjoyable and stress free as possible. Front left to front right

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CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z11

Students from Z10 tee for the Women in Science and Engineering Mentoring Program and knew Tasnim would thrive under the tutelage of a successful female leader from her new community. The WISE program was created three years ago to connect young women in both faculties with women who work in the field. It provides guidance and support for students and ensures each young woman leaves the university with a background to succeed. “What makes our program different than any other in the world, I believe, is that it’s the only one with a longitudinal study that accompanies it,” said Kavanagh. “… The intent is to track them now to improve the program, because we get feedback on what’s working and what isn’t, and to see what impact the program has on the participants both in the immediate term, on their academics, and on their future career development.” In December 2010, Kavanagh was among the group who applied for funding from Westcoast Women in Engineering, Science and Technology. Overseen by Elizabeth Croft, Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada chairwoman for women in science and engineering, the fund is intended to help promote science and engineering as an excellent career choice for women, and other under-represented groups, and to help identify and eliminate barriers that result in attrition from these career paths. The tri-mentoring concept used by WISE fits perfectly. Each mentor gets a junior and a senior mentee. Typically students in second year

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THIS was the first event Nishat Tasnim volunteered for and it sparked a passion for volunteering in her community. are considered the junior and those in third or fourth year, the senior. The group meets as a trio so the students have the benefit of each others’ knowledge as well as the leader from the community. In Tasnim’s case, her mentors included Gillis, winemaker for Red Rooster, and Susan Lapp, a consultant working in watershed management. Tasnim describes both women as friends she could look up to—Gillis for her honest, tough, high-energy approach to life and Lapp for her incredible ability to listen. From the outset, their guidance and encouragement helped her get involved in campus life and the wider community and she is learning to articulate and identify the areas of expertise each experience she tackles develops.

“I think where Nishat really blossomed was in realizing that the skills she was acquiring in university were really applicable to a job,” said Lapp. “She was worried that she was doing all this research and doing odd jobs for profs at the university and that might be a constraint to future employment. “So we were able to identify how that applies to getting a job down the line and develop her CV.” WISE holds workshops and panel discussions on everything from work-life balance to professionalism. The program does battle to find mentors as women are often so busy balancing career and family and struggle to find time to volunteer. Prospective mentors can connect with the program at wise. ok.ubc.ca.

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Z12 5 Women in Business 2014

Women increasingly active in West Kelowna business Wade Paterson STAFF REPORTER

About 41 per cent of the Greater Westside Board of Trade’s membership is comprised of women. Karen Beaubier, executive director of the GWBT, says those female members fall into three different categories: Entrepreneurs, couples and managers or leaders of organizations. GWBT membership currently includes 47 female entrepreneurs, 27 couples— who Beaubier describes as “husband and wife teams”— and 54 business leaders. She adds the number of women moving into higher positions within the business community is continually on the rise. “I think in more traditional

Karen Beaubier industries…women are more commonly at the top than they have been in the past,” says Beaubier. Beaubier began working for the GWBT—formerly the Westbank and District Chamber of Commerce—on a parttime basis in May 2012. That position became fulltime in December 2012 and she was named executive dir-

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ector a year later. In her time with the GWBT, Beaubier has noticed an increasing trend of women becoming entrepreneurs. “There are so many female entrepreneurs here, it blows me away,” says Beaubier. As an example, she describes the Westside Women’s Luncheon, a monthly event where approximately 30 women from the community network and share ideas. Many of the women who attend own home-based businesses, says Beaubier. “I think households, nowadays, need two incomes. “Because of the economic situation here, it’s hard for women to get 9 (a.m.) to 5 (p.m.) jobs.” She suggests another reason for that increase in career choice may stem from women’s desire to work their own hours. “They’re not in a box anymore. They can move around with their hours, work on the weekend and work around their kids’ schedules. “I think women can get that flexibility by being their own bosses and running their own hours. “And they can still make money, if not more money than traditional jobs.” Although the GWBT doesn’t have events specifically geared toward women, Beaubier is hoping to start a Lunch and Learn program in the near future to help smalland medium-sized business owners with various topics such as social media or leadership skills. wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com Twitter: @PatersonWade

CAPITAL NEWS

The winning traits of faith-based leaders Sandi Krakowski CONTRIBUTOR

The definition of faith in the truest sense of the word expands far beyond a belief in God or an acceptance of heaven or hell. If I take a plane to Hawaii from my home in Chicago, which I do twice a year with my family, while I might pray before we take off, my faith in the pilot, the aircraft and even air traffic control is also being exercised whether I mention it or not. I’d never get on a plane if I have no faith or trust in the airline industry. How we think is controlling everything we do. Where we put our trust is a key component of that. We don’t need to over spiritualize every single scenario of life. We act on what we believe more than on what we know. And the beliefs of top performers and leaders can teach us a lot. In his newest book, Crash the Chatterbox, New York Times best-selling author Steven Furtick shares how common it is to live a life with negative “chatter” going on in our head 24/7. Our thoughts are a manufacturing plant for the kind of life we’ll live. So what are traits of some faith-based leaders? 1. They can shift between thoughts, circumstances and events quickly. A top performer has no time for drama drag. It takes faith to shift like a gazelle from one thing to the next. Moving through meetings, projects, conversations, emails and even tweets takes focus and believe it or not, faith. If we don’t believe we can do a good job, we’ll drag. If we’re insecure about where we are going, we’ll procrastinate. If we have constant “chatter” in our head that we don’t shift through quickly, we’ll end up in a constant state of confusion. Guard your mind like Fort Knox and be very selective where you let your thoughts wander. 2. They have confidence in what they’re doing and learn to ignore their critics. We all need trusted advisors who help us to go farther and be better. But every person with an opinion doesn’t deserve to be in that trusted spot. Neither does every person with a Twitter account. I’m always amazed when someone with 29 followers will begin to slam and criticize someone who is doing so much good in the world. We’re entitled to have our opinions.

But if we don’t have faith or confidence in the things we’re doing in business, we’ll never achieve the level of success we were created for. We all need more faith than fear. It’s up to us who we’ll believe in but, when all is said and done, lack of confidence is one of the greatest reasons a powerful solution will fall to the ground and never reach the marketplace. 3. They know the value of self talk. How we talk to, about and with ourself daily is a big linchpin between the mediocre and the excellent. Anyone who wants to master his or her performance and go far in life must learn to direct the self talk. If we took a recorder and broadcast the daily thoughts of some of the world’s top leaders, we might all be shocked. They have learned the fine art of selective focus. Olympic athletes have come from devastating situations and environments. Top executives rise from very obscure and painfilled pasts. Our self talk matters. The voice we believe matters. 4. They can operate within constant change and not lose focus. Focusing on multiple things at one time is a skill that we’re either born with or we acquire. It’s not a matter of attention-deficit disorder but rather the ability to categorize where our thoughts go, even thinking through several things simultaneously. Change is inevitable as a leader. If you hate change, don’t even try leading. If you are uncomfortable with change, you either have to get past it or rethink your future if you are aspiring go be a powerful leader. Learning to selectively focus and being able to shift quickly without loss of momentum is critical. 5. They have courage in the war of doubt, fear and discouragement. Leaders agree that self-doubt never ends. The mom and pop just beginning their entrepreneurial journey and the multi-billionaire with thousands of staff all fight the war of fear, doubt and discouragement. To maintain courage and to keep going through the negativity is a key ingredient in the powerful leader who rises to their potential. Faith is important because your dreams and business plans will be attacked. No one has ever gotten to a place of influence and success without first walking through a lot of criticism, self doubt, fear and even insecurity. What we lean on is critical.

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z13

Unleashing the power of an unstoppable woman Rose Bachman CONTRIBUTOR

As women we are not heard equally when it comes to changing the world. Women’s earning power is less than men. Why? Because there are not enough women in power. From a personal level many women give up their voice and personal power. I know I did for this business I love because I have the honour of shifting unhealthy beliefs concerning money, weight, relationship and addiction issues being the most common. It shocks me that corporate women give up their communication skills in their household. Many say they are too exhausted to express their truth to their spouse or family members. We are nurturers, that does not mean we don’t want to be nurtured. Men live in a different emotional world and that’s OK—it is up to us to ask for what we need. Please give them permission to ask you what they need from you. Most women have a desire to change. To be a better mother, friend, lover and communicator. Sometimes we don’t

Rose Bachman know what we want, depending on our upbringing. By the time we reach eight years of age, 80 per cent of our programming is embedded in us. We are programmed by our parents, the school system, religion and the media. Once we reach puberty most of us rebel against some of our parents’ beliefs. How many of you go ballistic when your spouse states: “You are just like your mother!” There is an emotional trigger that you may want to heal or not. What I know for sure is if we don’t deal with our emotions they will deal with us. You will pay a price and so will the people around you. It is vital to release the ego and surrender to the real you. We are free spirits to about the age of 10 believing in our power within.

For most of us, this gets diminished as we begin to imitate our parents’ actions and words. Genetics at an emotional level is also a factor. Sometimes we don’t understand why we do what we do or don’t do. There is a solution by choosing to shift unhealthy thoughts and beliefs around mostly money, weight, relationship and addiction issues. Whatever you believe will be true for you. You are deserving and worthy to have a healthy body, a loving relationship, be addiction free and create abundance. All that is required is desire. My strength is in propelling you out of your comfort zone into your power zone. You know all of your own answers, but I use my 25 years of expertise to help guide women to stop telling the lies you have been telling yourself for years. It is OK to feel afraid. What you fear the most is your power as a woman. Once you’ve made the decision, you’ve had enough, your gift will be valuing and honouring the unstoppable woman in you. Always keep your power. Dr. Rose Backman, of Kelowna, communicates with the subconscious mind using

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Z14 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

…putting the pieces together

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Engaging students to want to learn math When the founder of one of Canada’s most notable tech companies was in Kelowna last year, he said there’s one thing even the most successful venture struggles with: Finding women to fill its tech positions. Nine out of 10 people interviewed for a tech position in his office are men, said HootSuite CEO Ryan Holmes. At that time, the company had 58 engineers and developers on their team, and only 17 were women. It’s a problem that extends throughout the industry. According to a 2012 Dow Jones study, only 1.3 per cent of founders at privately held, venture-backed companies were women. Furthermore, women account for just six per cent of the chief executives of the top 100 tech companies, according to the National Centre for Women and Information Technology. The key to filling the gap, say the experts, is education. If they’re right, the answer to bringing a new generation into an industry laden with men may be in Kelowna. Math-loving entrepreneur, tech company CEO and former teacher Kristin Garn is doing her part to boost the number of women in power positions, all the while sparking a love of math and science among teenagers, one app at a time. ••• Kathy Michaels STAFF REPORTER

Kristin Garn was the type of teacher who got worked up about course material. “When the graphing calculator came out, I read the whole 300 page manual,” she said. “I was so excited about it. But my students were like, ‘What are you excited about? This is the worst.’” What they were enthused about, however, was tablet

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technology. “When the iPad came out, I thought: What’s the big deal, it’s a big mobile phone?” she said. Her math students saw it in a much more favourable light. It was an easier-to-lugaround, interactive source of information, and they kept asking why she wasn’t basing lesson plans around them. It was a suggestion that ultimately sparked a career revolution for Garn.

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CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z15

Math from Z14

“We naturally need instant feedback. Even a small amount is motivating.” With that in mind, Mathtoons focused on creating apps that balance play and learning. The company is a registered developer for both the Apple iTunes and Google Play app stores, has developed and deployed dozens of academic mobile apps since incorporation in 2011 and has been featured at Apple as one of the top educational app developers. Go to iTunes, and you will see that the company can boast 100,000 downloads already. - And, Garn stressed, the 6apps aren’t for the super aca-demically minded student, -either. - Just the word “math” can ecause angst, Garn said, but it’s -those people that Mathtoons could really help. o “We have pretty solkid research that parents in ,the west pass on their anxieties about math to their chiltdren,” she said. “So our focus -group is kids (ages 14 and up) ,who don’t express a big love -of math. Our goal is to turn around math aversion.” , Garn and all the app deevelopers at Mathtoons know kwhat it’s like to master some-thing that’s challenging, she said, and they’ve worked that understanding into their app. “I was a harpsichordist, 5and as a young classical musician you learn the notion of flow from practising a lot. The practise of something difficult becomes enjoyable.” It also builds the characteristics that lead to more success. “Grit, tenacity and buoyancy” are traits that can help

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CONTRIBUTED

kmichaels@kelownacapnews.com

www.westland-insurance.com

Your best coverage is our only policy

Colleen Groat has most recently joined the team at the Chartwell

Chatsworth Retirement Residence in the role a of Sales Consultant. Liz and Frank never missed beat… Colleen is proud to be a part of Chartwell Chatsworth and she many years of management and sales experience to the Liz and Frankbrings never missed a beat… team. And now they’re ready for the next step.

Colleen spends a great deal of time talking with and even more importantly listening to took their first whirl the dance over 50 yearsand families andnow seniorsThey who are looking for a retirement residence. With afloor variety of amenities And they’re ready foraround the next step. features in our residence, ourhave goal isbeen to offer you aup safe,their secure andever fun environment ago and kicking heels since. Whenwhile theyyou They took their first whirl the continue to enjoy your daily life around engaged withdance friends,floor familyover and50 theyears community. Colleen has started looking for retirement living options, they were pleased a genuine passion interest in helping toever makesince. this decision, one that will offer them ago and have and been kicking up theirthem heels When they to find out that Chartwell offers active lifestyle programs. a rewarding lifestyle in a community they will be proud to call home. started looking for retirement living options, they were pleased At to Chartwell we strive dailyactive to deliver on our shared vision of Making People’s find outChatsworth that Chartwell offers lifestyle programs. Call today to arrange your personal Lives Better by offering respect, comfort and peace of mind. visit and complimentary lunch! Assisted living Monthly rentals Call today to arrange youravailable personaltoday! 24 hr. Care Aids on staff Care aids on staff 24/7 visit and complimentary lunch! Month to month rentals Monthly rentals available today! Parkview Crescent, Kelowna,visit BC Call Colleen1831 today to arrange your personal 250-860-1064 • CHARTwell.COM 1831 Parkview Crescent, Kelowna,Kelowna BC 1831 Parkview Crescent, BC .COM 250-860-1064 • CHARTwell 250-860-1064 • chartwell.com

— Anais Nin

THE OKANAGAN’S PREMIERE SENSUALITY SHOP

Now open Sundays!

Care aids on staff 24/7

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Colleen Groat

SHE SAID IT…

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smart phones, computers and tablets as teaching tools to help students develop a greater interest in math. these things are engaging students’ cognitive abilities.” Funding to ensure that Mathtoons ideas take root is starting to flow, as well. This week Mathtoons Media signed its second contribution agreement with the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRCIRAP) to develop teacher-created mobile practise for upper level academics. NRC-IRAP is providing advisory services and funding of up to $221,000 to support Mathtoons’ development of collaborative authoring tools for teachers as well as personalized mobile practise applications for students. The funding will help Mathtoons to develop authoring tools and mobile practise with a broader scope toward achieving Western Canadian educational goals such as personalized and flexible learning.

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anyone become good at practising, which is important because, like the old adage says, practise makes perfect. Teachers are onboard with the idea, too. Garn regularly taps into the educational community to get feedback, and the response she gets is positive about the work she and her team are doing. Over the next 12 months, the Mathtoons team will work with key educational consultants and advisors to develop web-accessed content authoring software, which will enable educators to easily and rapidly design and deploy engaging skills practise applications for students’ personal mobile device “I’m overwhelmed by how much we are welcomed by education stakeholders,” she said. “They are recognizing that the same digital tools that are in students’ lives— tablets and home computers, Xbox and Playstation—all of

Call and talk to one of our insurance specialists today!

Wild Kingdom: Specializing in intimate accessories to enhance your romantic life. By knowing the industry of sensual adult products, Wild Kingdom has set the bar for all Adult Boutiques in British Columbia. Our professional associates are warm and welcoming. We take pride in our knowledge and offer confident suggestions to our guests, when they are looking for that special intimate accessory. The gratitude that is expressed to us really continues to create strength in our team building and genuine customer service

Wild Kingdom

Kim Williams skills. Thank you for allowing us to share our confidence with you. Wild Kingdom has branched out to the island of Maui. We are proud to introduce a new Maui representative to our Wild Kingdom Team. Leah Belmudes will be heading our home party

division on the island. Kim Williams has been building a rapport with residents and other business owners of the Okanagan since she arrived in Kelowna in 1998. Kim has always welcomed men, women and transgender guests to shop at Wild Kingdom. We would like to take this time to welcome new residents and long time residents of the Okanagan to visit us at Wild Kingdom. Allow us to show you the amazing products we carry to enhance the special moments you share with your partner. Kim and her associates ensure full confidentiality of our guests preferred lifestyles.

www.sensualkingdom.com

Kim has worked hard to find many lovely, non-invasive, luxury products to offer a great introductory into intimate accessories. Thank you to the Okanagan for supporting us throughout the years. Wild Kingdom Erotic

Luxury will be celebrating our 5 year birthday in May of this year, along with our Wild Kingdom in down town Kelowna, for our sweet sixteen. Join us in our celebration at both our locations. Please come down to either of our locations to see what’s new in the fun and exciting world of adult accessories.

Monique, Laurette &Tanya. Missing: Barb, Coralese & Kimberly

563 LAWRENCE AVENUE, KELOWNA • 250-868-9033 ❤ #103-3466 CARRINGTON ROAD, WEST KELOWNA • 250-768-2000

Z16 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Wendi Swarbrick is the owner of WS Accounting Services Inc., a full service accounting firm dedicated to working with their clients to ensure all their tax and accounting needs, personal and business; are taken care of. “Let us Worry About The Details!” At WS Accounting Services Inc. we take pride in bringing our clients an excellent blend of tax and accounting expertise and personal service. Whether you are just starting out in business, well on your way, or succession planning; WS Accounting Services Inc. can create a specific service package to complement your business. At WS Accounting Services Inc., we offer our clients a traditional array of tax and accounting/business services – including personal, business and corporate tax preparation and planning, business start ups and consulting, bookkeeping, all GST/PST, WCB regulatory filings, payroll services, Financial Statements, audit/CRA support and much more …. Our knowledgeable and experienced professionals are committed to providing our clients with the expertise necessary to help their businesses succeed and grow, as well as understanding each individual, and that of your family’s personal tax situation. We do much more than just prepare your taxes, we take the time to develop a strategy that will minimize yours and your family’s overall tax burden. WS Accounting Services Inc. is a proud member of the Uptown Rutland Business Community. Wendi Swarbrick has truly embraced the entrepreneurial spirit within! Currently the owner of WS Accounting Services Inc., and partner in I Love Rutland, Rutland’s Community Magazine and WS Graphic Design Services – providing brand creation, high impact graphic design and marketing for print, radio and online.

250.491.7819

Wendi Swarbrick

www.wsaccounting.ca

ACCOUNTING SERVICES INC.

accounting bookkeeping personal taxes business and corporate tax returns business consulting

Knowing your local market, great! Knowing and understanding your clients’ needs and what is important… priceless! My dedication and determination to have all my clients truly satisfied is what I strive for in my business. Trust is the key! You can always count on me. I love what I do! I am a proud Westside resident and mother of three. I am a professional, an entrepreneur, hard working, enthusiastic, organized and bilingual. When you choose me for the sale or purchase of a home, condo, land or investment, you are making the right choice. I get results while building quality relationships. 2014 is coming in strong and the market is busy! Call me, Leesa Fournier with Royal LePage if you need to be SOLD or for a complimentary home evaluation. I don’t expect success, I prepare for it! Remember, it’s either for sale or Leesa. Live Life In Kelowna! I would like to take this opportunity to say Thank You! to all my clients for your trust and referrals to your family and friends. I look forward to working with you in 2014. Call me! Let my skills and years of experience move you. Helping you is what I do! List for Sale… or Sold with Leesa. You Decide

KELOWNA

250.808.2932

ForSaleOrLeesa.com

Leesa Fournier

Candace Chisholm has been working with World Financial Group for the last 5 years. Her focus is building people and helping them realize their financial goals, as well as educating families on simple financial concepts. She is passionate about teaching others and welcomes the opportunity to instruct willing individuals on how to build a financial business. No family left behind

250.863.7488

www.worldfinancialgroup,com

Candace Chisolm

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z17

Marketing the tourism virtues of Kelowna Alistair Waters

communities across Canada chosen to be part of a successful federal tourism web-based initiative that encouraged locals to talk about When it comes to marketing, word on the their communities on line, letting potential street has always been a powerful tool. visitors in on local secrets—things that would But with the advent of the Internet, particu- make a stay here more memorable. larly the growth of social media, that street is Tourism Kelowna’s focus on social media now much longer than it used to be. In fact, it has been successful. Its Facebook site is one of the top sites locally with more than 15,000 can stretch around the world. “likes” and there is a combined 8,000 followAnd virtually every organization is taking ers on the two Tourism Kelowna Twitter acnotice. Nowadays, personal reviews heavily influ- counts. But it’s not just about getting the word out ence decision-making. More and more we are turning to websites we trust to hear what others to people who don’t live here. “It’s also a great way to connect with lothink about something we are interested in. cals,” said Merritt, who was born and raised in It’s a move Tourism Kelowna recognized the Okanagan, hailing from Coldstream, and several years ago and has made an effort to whose family has an Okanagan Lake cabin. embrace. Merritt says she has been entertaining out“When I launched our social media chanof-town guests, showing them what the valnels five years ago the landscape was very difley has to offer most of her life, so doing it on a ferent,” said Shauna Merritt, marketing direclarger scale for Tourism Kelowna seemed like tor for Tourism Kelowna. a natural fit for her. “The demographics have changed, new And locals also play a part in helping atchannels are evolving and sites like Instagram (a photo-based website) are having more of an tract others to this area, so putting them in the know is another marketing strategy to help impact now.” drive tourism, one of the bigWhile traditional paid newsgest local industries. paper, television and radio adWith so many niche marvertising is still relevant, many kets on offer here when it marketers see the value of Intercomes to tourism—golf, wine, net reviews because they are not agri-tourism, outdoor recreaconsidered by many as typical I’VE SEEN A LOT OF tion, arts and culture—trad“spin” put out by a company or BEAUTIFUL PLACES itional marketing avenues are organization selling a product or still important but the wide service, but rather a view of that IN THE WORLD. reach of the Internet compliproduct or service by an everySO I CAN REALLY ments them well. day user. APPRECIATE WHAT Tourism Kelowna advertis“More than ever, social WE HAVE HERE. es in a myriad of places includmedia is becoming a reputing on TSN, ESPN in the U.S., able source of information,” I’M PROUD TO LIVE CBC, the Globe and Mail, Nasaid Merritt, who readily adHERE. tional Post and in airline magamits many of us are more likeShauna Merritt, zines to name just a few. ly to trust what others who have Tourism Kelowna With its thousands of Twitused a service, stayed at a hotel, ter followers, the organizaeaten in a restaurant or visited a tion can get its message out quickplace have to say than the organizaly, with YouTube videos it can add visual eletion promoting it. ments and other social media channels add an Those in the business of creating and buyinteractive and two-way conversation that did ing advertising, like Merritt, sees the value in not exist in the days of “old.” that 21st century version of the word on the Individual groups of potential travellers street, the web-based review. now being targeted is part of the strategy for But, as she pointed out, it does not have to convincing them to chose Kelowna as their be a wordy critique. Photo-sharing websites next destination to visit, helped by the milare helpful in marketing Kelowna to the world lions of impressions generated by social media because, as Merritt puts it, people who come every year. here from elsewhere take beautiful pictures For Merritt, who likes to spend her time and want to share them with the world. on the lake on her family’s boat or playing the Piggy-backing on that exposure can put myriad of golf courses in the valley or visiting the city in a good visual light that may entice the many wineries located in the area, marketothers to come here and see for themselves. ing Kelowna to the world is an enjoyable job. Kelowna Tourism has a full-time social “I’ve seen a lot of beautiful places in the media manager who monitors social media channels for mentions about Kelowna and can world,” she said. “So I can really appreciate what we have here. I’m proud to live here.” help steer the conversation about the city in Based on the success Tourism Kelowna cyberspace as well as gather the information is having getting others to explain why they out there that helps the organization augment like living here or just visiting, it seems many its other marketing messages. others do too. A few years ago, the city was one of 12 ASSISTANT EDITOR

‘‘

SHE SAID IT… “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us…And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” — Marianne Williamson “Destiny is a name often given in retrospect to choices that had dramatic consequences.” — J.K. Rowling

SHAUNA Merritt is the marketing director for Tourism Kelowna.

ALISTAIR WATERS/CAPITAL NEWS

Mona Mueller It has been almost 4 years since Mona, and husband Duane, opened Santa Fe Furniture & Home Décor in Kelowna. The store, being a little deceiving from the small storefront, has 3000 sq. feet filled with unique solid wood furniture, home accessories and much more. “People who have never been in the store are pleasantly surprised when they come through the door.” Mona travels and hand selects all the best that Mexico has to offer. “Although the store does have a large variety of Rustic, Mexican and Southwestern décor and furniture, people with every decorating style can find that unique treasure here.” Drop by to see the great selection of solid wood furniture, marble and talavera sinks, iron art, yard art, fountains, patio furniture, wall art and huge selection of indoor and outdoor pottery. The exciting and new Cabana antique finished furniture line has just arrived in many colors as well as beautiful onyx lights and accessories.

333 Banks Road, Kelowna 778-478-0676

Open Mon. - Thurs. 10-5 pm; Fri. & Sat. 10-5:30; Sun 12-4 pm www.santafefurniture.ca

Lia Lipkovits I have invested 36 years in the Automotive Industry as a sales representative. Proudly serving the Okanagan over the past 22 years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my past and present clients for their business and continued support throughout the years. From my experience working with various brands, I am especially impressed by Mitsubishi. Mitsubishi Motors has been making vehicles all over the world since 1917. The brand entered the Canadian Market 11 years ago. Mitsubishi Motors is one of the fastest growing Japanese automakers in North America. (Mitsubishi is also the most successful manufacturer in the history of the Dakar Rally, one of the most challenging and dangerous motorsport events in the world.) Mitsubishi has used that knowledge and dominant experience to transition that expertise into the new Mitsubishi vehicles you see on the road today. Mitsubishi strives for 3 core attributes in its new vehicle lineup. Athleticism, reliability and durability. For your next vehicle purchase I would like to extend a warm invitation to visit Valley Mitsubishi so I can show you the Mitsubishi Line-up. WE ARE THE BEST BACKED CARS in the world. Our warranties are bold but we have 90 years of vehicle building to back it up.

VALLEY MITSUBISHI 2350 Enterprise Way, Kelowna, BC

250-860-6300 www.valleymitsubishi.ca

Z18 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Does your workplace promote healthy eating? Linda Boyd CONTRIBUTOR

Most of us have good intentions when it comes to eating well, but knowing what a healthy choice is doesn’t always translate into making a healthy choice. This can be especially true in the workplace where many of us spend a lot of time and where healthy options may be limited. The struggle to eat healthy at work is not always simply due to a lack of will power. Research shows that our “food environment” strongly influences the food choices that we make. Think about the choices available to you in your workplace: What is stocked in the vending machines down the

hallway? Does the cafeteria sell healthy choices? Are the healthy choices more expensive? Are the muffins served at meetings jumbo-sized? Is there an endless supply of candy, cookies, cakes, and pastries on the lunch room table? We are more likely to eat foods that are easily accessible—even if we know those foods may not be the best choice. The food environment often overrides will power. When healthy choices are accessible, attractively displayed, comparatively priced and highly visible, it’s a lot easier to make a better food choice. Here are some simple things you can do to help create a healthier food environ-

ment in your workplace. For the coffee room, bring in a box of oranges instead of a box of donuts. Treat your co-workers to a bowl of apples or seasonal fruit. At potlucks, encourage people to bring colourful vegetable and fruit choices or vegetarian dishes using beans or lentils. Position the healthier options at the front of the table. And consider that not all staff meetings require food. If a meeting is shorter than two hours or occurs during a nonmeal time, ask yourself if providing food is really necessary. When providing food, remember that fruit and vegetable trays make great healthy snacks. Make these easily accessi-

“CONNECT

…a business networking group for women” Brenda Fischer CFP Edward Jones

Financial Advisor

250-712-0508

Lynne Glata

Kepi’s Kreations Jewellery

European flair, created in Kelowna

250-491-4221

www.facebook.com/kepiskreationsjewellery lglata@telus.net

Lillian Czaplan

Premier Canadian Properties

250-717-7053

Zonia Arnold

Living Naturally with WATKINS Quality Products

ble by placing the trays in the center of meeting tables. If serving baked goods, provide smaller sized portions and cut muffins in half. Serve these items away from seated participants. For an all-day conference, fruit skewers and low-fat yogurt are tasty picks for the afternoon break. The Eat Smart Meet

Smart resource can help you choose healthier food for meetings and events. Check out the website www.health. gov.bc.ca/healthyeating/pdf/ eat-smart-meet-smart.pdf for more helpful information. As for vending machines, ask your vending machine operator to stock healthier choices. Check the brand name

food list for healthier options to stock in vending machines. For more information about healthy workplaces check out the website www. healthyfamiliesbc.ca/home/ articles/get-going-healthyworkplace.

Linda Boyd is a community nutritionist with Interior Health.

Online netCommunity to connect with OC alumni Students move on to busy lives and careers after college graduation but the memories of the friendships they formed and the experiences they shared during their school years never leave them. At Okanagan College, the newly-launched alumni netCommunity offers graduates a way to stay in touch, rekindle connections, and support the college no matter how far away their lives and careers have taken them. “People love the College experience and want to keep that connection,” said Okanagan College alumni relations coordinator Katerina Hay. “It’s a big change to go from being immersed in college life every day for a few years and then transition to the workplace. “We wanted to gift our alumni with a way to maintain those old friendships and link with like-minded people who have a shared experience. “netCommunity is an online platform that lets alumni customize how they want to stay involved with the college, including keeping up with news and events of their choice, taking advantage of networking and mentoring opportunities, and engaging with the alumni

directory and discussion boards.” Since the first graduation ceremony 50 years ago, 53,477 individuals have received a certificate, diploma or degree from Okanagan College or one of its predecessor institutions. All alumni can enrol in netCommunity and are eligible for a variety of discounts and benefits, including ongoing and limited time discounts on insurance, movie tickets, concerts, sporting events and travel. They can also access free library cards and employment services to support job searches and career changes. “Personalizing the connection with the College is a key element,” said Jill Buehler, an alumna of Okanagan college who helped install netCommunity. “I especially like the networking feature and opportunities for mentorship that will help with career growth. “For people who move out of the Okanagan, it’s a way to keep in touch and hear about new developments.” Alumni can sign up for netCommunity at http://alumni.okanagan.bc.ca. For more information, contact Katerina Hay at khay@okanagan.bc.ca.

SHE SAID IT…

“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you still come out of it. ” — Maya Angelou

250-769-6667

Laurie Bartley

Lifestyle Architect Wellness & Beauty Consultant

250-469-2209

www.believe.vpweb.ca email: lauriebartley@shaw.ca

Sharon Purdy Chi Weaver Shiatsu

Traditional Shiatsu Treatments

250-718-0234

Tracy Kissick TJK Photo Solutions

250-801-3076

Solutions for organizing, scanning, restoring and sharing photos tjkissick@shaw.ca

Arlene Pilgrim

Cheryl Blum CoCo began as a small boutique for the first 6 years and just celebrated 1 year in the much larger store located in Mission Park Mall on Lakeshore Road. Starting out with the best selection of accessories and jewellery in the city, we now carry fabulous, exclusive lines of clothing, footwear and new, trendy items and accessories. We are passionate about fashion….for everyone. Our main goal is to have every woman look and feel great about themselves and exude confidence while providing excellent customer service. To separate ourselves from others, we are constantly hunting for new, exciting, unique items and classy pieces of superior quality. CoCo has always been passionate about supporting local community fundraising events and giving back to our community.

Sunset Gourmet

Gourmet Foods & Spices

250-868-8171

MISSION PARK SHOPPING CENTRE #25-3155 Lakeshore Road, Kelowna

email: appilgrim@hotmail.com

“We support and assist women in business, specifically CONNECT members by actively referring clients to sister members, and by encouraging and empowering each other and potential members. For more information contact blfischer@shaw.ca

CLOTHING • JEWELLERY ACCESSORIES

250-861-4400

www.cocoboutique.ca

CAPITAL NEWS

Zigging and zagging your business course Lisa Evans

CONTRIBUTOR

Many of the greatest inventors and entrepreneurs admit to having failed at some point in their careers. Richard Christensen, an entrepreneur and author of The Zig Zag Principle, says while failing may be a normal part of business and life, most of us are ill-equipped to fail efficiently. He uses the analogy of skiing to teach entrepreneurs to take deliberate diversions on the road to achieving success to avoid the kind of catastrophic failures that can result in financial and personal ruin. “When we ski, we don’t take our skis and point them directly down the mountain or we’ll break our neck,” says Christensen. This approach is drastically different than what most business school graduates are taught to do. “In business, we’re taught to do a performance analysis and set some big hairy goal and charge directly towards it and then we wonder why only one in ten small businesses achieve (what they set out to),” says Christensen. Slowing down and altering your course rather than bulldozing your way towards a goal, a process which Christensen calls zigging and zagging, not only helps achieve business success but ensures if the idea fails, it fails “efficiently.” Here are his four tips to zigzag your way to success.

THINK PROFITABILITY FIRST

Christensen recommends new ventures begin by driving towards profitability. “Think about what’s the fastest way to get to profitability, even if it’s a slight diversion from your (overall) goal,” says Christensen. He has now founded and co-founded 32 small businesses ventures, all with $5,000 to $10,000 as an initial investment. Eleven of those businesses failed, while thirteen turned into million-dollar success stories. When deciding a set amount of resour-

ces you’re willing to risk towards the venture, whether it’s a new business or trying out a new idea within your company, Christensen recommends devoting 65 per cent of that capital towards the drive to profitability, 25 per cent towards resources including staff and 10 percent towards scale.

MAKE FAILURE EFFICIENT

If profitability isn’t achieved within the determined time frame, which for Christensen is typically three months, he calls the business idea a failure, although an “efficient” failure. Every business’ time frame will be different depending on how much you’re willing to invest in the venture. “What most people do is they’ll spend a year, five years, 10 years with no definition chasing an idea, then they give up and they’ve wasted all that time and resources. At least if I don’t get to profitability right away, I haven’t spent a ton of money and years of dedication,” says Christensen.

Women in Business 2014 5 Z19

Deborah Stewart CE, CPE, CLT

Elfi Eades RT, CLT

Owned and operated by Deborah Stewart, Custom Laser Hair Removal specializes exclusively in permanent hair removal using LightSheer Diode XC and EC laser technology and electrolysis. We are your one stop for permanent hair removal in the Valley, providing the best possible results to both men and women of all ethnic backgrounds. The results are here! Deborah obtained her credentials as Certified Esthetician and Certified Professional Electrologist in 1990 and expanded her permanent hair removal credentials in 2004 when she obtained designation as Certified Laser Technician. She has been providing permanent laser hair removal and electrolysis in Kelowna since 2004 and in March 2008 opened Custom Laser Hair Removal, providing clients with successful, expert, professional treatments. Her extensive skin care background compliments and enhances the safety and efficacy of both laser hair removal and electrolysis treatments for unsurpassed results time and time again. Colleague and fellow Certified Laser Technician Elfi Eades RT, has over 16 years experience in the laser hair removal industry with 25 years in the health care field. Combined with Deborah Stewart, the clinic brings attention to detail in a relaxed, friendly, confidential and warm atmosphere. The clinic offers custom requests to ensure that your needs are met to the highest standard at each visit. Deborah and Elfi aspire to continue to respond to increased demand for permanent hair removal for both men and women of all ethnic backgrounds. Come see us in our new location in the heart of the medical community; 1 1/2 blocks from KGH.

765 Rose Avenue (1 1/2 blocks from KGH) www.CustomLaserHairRemoval.com Open Mon-Sat 250-861-1141

SET YOUR FOCUS ON GOALS.

After achieving profitability (the first zig), Christensen takes his business ventures on their first zag, allocating 65 per cent of resources to staffing and structures and procedures, 25 per cent to scale (expansion or franchising) and 10 per cent to profitability. Zigging and zagging continues using this 65/25/10 resource allocation model, rotating through profitability, resources and scale, throughout the life of the business.

SLOW DOWN.

While Christensen admits companies who follow the zig zag principle will take longer to achieve their end goal, he says by setting clear goals on the amount of capital, time and people devoted to the venture, businesses are provided with greater stability and the slower speed may even reveal pleasant surprises. “You find all these hidden nuggets of gold along the way that turn into better businesses ideas than what you would have found (had you simply charged toward the goal).”

Maxine DeHart Maxine DeHart is the Director of Sales at the Ramada Hotel and Conference Centre, where she has been employed for over 25 years. She is also celebrating her 17th year with the Capital News this spring, writing the popular business column, “Straight from DeHart.” On November 19th, 2011, Maxine was elected as a City of Kelowna Councillor. As a result of this she has been appointed to the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board and will Chair the City of Kelowna’s Civic Awards Committee. She is also an Alternate Board Member on both the Regional District of the Central Okanagan and the Okanagan Regional Library Board. Maxine has been very active in Kelowna, sitting on various boards, including the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce (Vice-President), the United Way, Kelowna General Hospital Foundation and the Premier’s Regional Committee. She was a founding member of Project Literacy, Kelowna Gospel Mission 30K Club and the Kelowna Exceptional Service Under the Sun Program. She has received several awards: United Way Award of Distinction, Toastmasters International Communications and Leadership Award; YM/YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for Community Leadership and Enhancement; Commemorative Medal – Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; Community Citizen of the Year; Kelowna Chamber of Commerce President’s Award and the Mayor’s Spirit of Kelowna Award. She is currently serving on the National Board of the RCMP Foundation (Ottawa), the Certified Management Accountants Association of B.C. (Vancouver) and a Director on the local Board of the Return of the Peregrine Falcon Society.

SHE SAID IT… “The question isn’t who’s going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” — Ayn Rand

Your Last Diet Centre At Your Last Diet Centre we use Ideal Protein’s medically designed and professionally supervised wellness protocol. This muscle-sparing, fat-targeting weight loss protocol was created for Olympic Athletes in France about 25 years ago. Dieters lose the weight quickly without strenuous exercise. The Ideal Protein program is unique as it has a beginning and an end. You not only take the weight off and improve your health but, most importantly, you learn how to keep it off and that is why we are called Your Last Diet Centre. With our combined training and personal experience, we will guide you to success and a healthier body. Ask about our impressive weight loss averages!

Be the Weight YOU want to Be!

Your Last Diet Centre 3-1890 Ambrosi Rd, Kelowna | 250-763-2914 #50-5500 Clements Cres., Peachland | 778-215-2914 www.yourlastdietcentre.com

maxdehart@telus.net

Okanagan Natural Care Centre Step Up to Health Health! Okanagan Natural Care Centre has been serving the Okanagan and far beyond as a multi disciplinary, complimentary health centre for 38 years. We are accredited, experienced practitioners whose skills and vast knowledge enable us to personalize your pathway to health. We specialize in educating clients about their health. This is done through hands on therapy; Reflexology, BodyTalk, Kinesiology, Counseling, Iridology, Massage, Colon Therapy, Visceral Manipulation, Natural Beauty and knowledge of herbs and nutrition. Providing vitamins, supplements, bulk herbs, herbal formulas and the knowledge to find the right product has developed client appreciation. Allow yourself the experience of listening to yourself so you can be aware of your realities! By listening to your bodies innate wisdom what you need to know will be revealed. Visit our website for more information on therapies offered, articles on health and to sign up for our monthly newsletter, www.naturalcare.bc.ca If you are interested in improving your life, whether that be physical, relationship issues, business challenges, detoxifying negative behavior patterns or improving efficiency - even on the golf course, we’d like to help you achieve your potential. We encourage you to call today; we would love to be the next step on your journey to recognizing your life potential.

3-1890 Ambrosi Rd, Kelowna • 250-763-2914 www.naturalcare.bc.ca

Z20 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Tara Roden Tara Roden is a PGA of Canada golf coach and extremely thrilled to add Personal Fitness Training services with her Canfitpro and TPI Certification. She is uniquely one of few PGA of Canada members to offer both forms of coaching. It’s a perfect Fit! Her professional debut began in 1990 and she passionately continues to discover better ways to enhance your golf experience. Tara’s golf expertise and personal training services are combined with great facilities. She is proud to be working with both Global Fitness & Racquet Centre and Gallaghers Canyon Golf Club. Tara is Gallaghers Canyon Academy Director and Special Events Co-coordinator. We offer something for everyone with many fun weekly events, including a new “Golf Therapy” fun 9 hole mixer, The Beginner and Intermediate Golf (B.I.G.) League, Ladies Fun Nights, plus great kids and family programs planned for 2014.

Join us! 250.470.0203 tararoden@gmail.com

www.tararoden.com or www.golfbc.com or www.globalfitnesskelowna.com

How business leaders can ﬁnd their mojo Joel Trammell CONTRIBUTOR

CEOs are denigrated every day by the media, employees, shareholders and society at large as greedy, power-hungry moguls who are overpaid for usually lackluster performance. While some CEOs may fit this description, the truth is that most are doing the best they can and have insecurities like anyone else. In fact, there are three challenges that leave CEOs feeling powerless in many organizations. These challenges can be overcome if chief executives embrace the nature of modern-day leadership and use the right processes and tools.

LACK OF INFLUENCE

Caroline Grover The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce has been serving its business members since 1906 acting as a catalyst for business growth through advocacy, cost savings, networking opportunities and acting as the voice for business in the Central Okanagan. The Kelowna Chamber is the second largest in British Columbia with 1250 members and seven staff. The Chamber brings credibility to our members, offers business to business discount programs, targeted and cost effective marketing options to assist members in reaching their markets. Our 1200 page website and your business listings are viewed by thousands of people weekly. We support our members through introductions, business exposure and reduced operating costs. “I bring a background in community economic development, downtown revitalization strategies and business mentoring. I have managed four non-profit membership organizations exclusively serving business, being strategic in leveraging funds and partnerships. My greatest joy is the time I have working and speaking directly with members.”

544 Harvey Avenue Kelowna, BC

250-861-3627 www.kelownachamber.org

Doreen C. Smith, CFP Doreen is a designated Certified Financial Planner with Capri Wealth Management in Kelowna. She has also passed the Canadian Securities course and is licensed for life and disability insurance. Doreen offers her clients a large selection of investment and life insurance options through Capri Wealth Management, the largest and most respected, independently owned, financial planning firm in the Okanagan. Doreen specializes in independent advice and guidance involving a complete personalized financial plan of saving and investing, insurance, retirement planning, estate planning and taxation.

This may be a surprise to those who aren’t familiar with the CEO role, but many chief executives feel that they have little influence on their organizations. This is especially true as the organization grows. No longer a superstar contributor in marketing, sales or whatever business function they came from, many CEOs simply do not know what to do. They cannot reconcile the fact that they have limited control over their organizations, but total responsibility for the results. Many CEOs react badly to this dichotomy and end up limiting any influence they could have. Some CEOs try to control everything, micromanaging and ultimately undermining their people. This focus on tactical issues comes at the expense of strategy. At the other extreme, some CEOs give up all con-

trol after communicating a grand strategy. This laissez-faire attitude keeps the CEO so removed from the day-to-day flow of the organization that he or she doesn’t see a problem developing until it is too late. Then they blame the employees for not executing to their brilliant strategy.

LACK OF TIMELY INFORMATION

Many CEOs do not find out about problems in time to take action. Most of the data a CEO receives, especially in weekly, monthly, and quarterly status reports, is backwards-looking, tactical information that has little business value. Consider this: In a standard operations meeting, typically 80 to 90 per cent of the time is spent discussing the revenue forecast and how sales will achieve it. Why? Because in most companies this is the only future-oriented data the CEO receives. The other departments have presented historical information, making them less useful and relevant to the CEO’s job.

LACK OF ENGAGED EMPLOYEES

Many CEOs are surprised that their employees are not more engaged in their jobs. In their book, The Strategy-Focused Organization, Robert S. Kaplan and David P. Norton state “only 7 percent of employees today fully understand their company business strategies and what’s expected of them in order to help achieve company goals.” The reason is that employees see no direct tie between the corporate goals and their day-to-day activities. So while employees may

always seem busy, they may not be doing tasks that advance the company’s strategy. They make decisions and act in ways that are good for them, their boss or their department, as opposed to decisions that are good for the company as a whole.

BE THE JOCKEY

So what can the CEO or any business leader do about these challenges? The answer lies in balancing the inherent tension between having total responsibility but limited control. To be great, the modern CEO must have tremendous influence over his or organization while in some sense seeming to do very little. This subtle but active management is similar to a jockey riding a thoroughbred racehorse. The jockey and horse must work in a consistent rhythm, but no one would say the jockey is in total control of a thoroughbred running at 40 miles per hour. The best jockeys are the ones who know how to move the horse around the track and subtly position it for victory. While they carry a whip, they will only use it as the last resort. The way to guide an organization is to own the company vision and ensure that everyone understands the overall strategy of the company. Then, just as importantly, the CEO needs to tie that strategy to employee goals. This interconnectedness is critical for employees to emotionally engage. By pursuing a common mission and vision, the employees feel part of something greater than themselves.

Maja Karlsson MA, RD Silver Rain Coaching & Consulting offers leadership, business and personal coaching to people who know they need a change in their business or personal lives. As your coach, I help you understand your core values and how to use these to figure out your true passions. From there, I support you in making the tough choices needed to get where you want to go. I am your accountability partner who will call you forth so you can do the work you love and live the life you’ve always dreamed!

Doreen is active in the community both professionally and on a volunteer basis.

I have a varied background including a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and over 10 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian. I bring all my past knowledge and experience to the coaching relationship.

Doreen can be reached at 250-869-3825 or 1-800-670-1877. Capri Wealth Management is located at 100 - 1500 Hardy Street, Kelowna BC V1Y 8H2.

If you’re ready to take action to find your true passions, call or email today for a complimentary sample session!

Doreen writes a regular financial column in the Capital News business section called “Fiscal Fitness.” She covers a wide range of topics for her readers.

Silver Rain Coaching & Consulting

250-718-2078 mkarlsson@telus.net

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z21

Veterinarians can never stop learning Barry Gerding EDITOR

Giving something back is a lifestyle choice that West Kelowna veterinarian Dr. Noa Oz has followed throughout her life. It started as a teenager allowing her passion for animals that led her to volunteer at a local vet’s office while growing up in Tel Aviv, Israel. It is an opportunity that she and her husband, fellow vet Dr. Moshe Oz, continue to this day at their Rose Valley veterinary clinic. Being veterinarians has sometimes meant stepping up to help animals in distress, injured and abandoned by their owners, without any financial remuneration “We want to be a part of our community, and as immigrants to Canada we want to show our gratitude and our love for our country and help as much as we can,” Oz said. In providing an example for others to follow, Oz recalls as a child how veterinarians she volunteered with helped her to pursue her dream to become a vet herself. “It was always clear to me that is what I wanted to do. People opened doors for me and I learned about what being a veterinarian is all about. “So now I try to help people who may want to achieve that same dream, or even to gain some insight that might show them this is not the kind of profession they want to pursue.” Oz said while there has been an unexplained growth among women studying to be vets in recent years, she says the path to becoming a vet is academically challenging for anyone. Oz graduated from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Slovakia in 2004 with a speciality in surgery. Her husband tends to deal one-on-one with owners and their pets, and her focus is on carrying out surgical procedures. “That is my passion and my forte,” she says about performing surgeries. She said one difference between vets and

medical doctors is that veterinary medicine isn’t a specialty. “Veterinary medicine is such a broad subject. In human medicine, like if you have a heart issue, you are referred to a cardiologist. As vets, we have to deal with all health issues that animals face so it takes a lot of schooling and constant reading to upgrade your knowledge,” she said. “For every animal, there are breed-specific viruses you have to know about, and sometimes even with the same animal group, different breeds have different issues. So you have to constantly learn and stay on top of it all.” She says while a passion of animals often leads people to consider becoming a vet, she discovered early on in her schooling that you also have to love being a doctor, dealing with animals in the same way a medical doctor deals with patients. And the academics are challenging—four years of pre-med followed by four years of veterinary medicine. Oz says one of the bigger challenges for any vet to figure out what is ailing a dog or cat, or even diagnosing that a problem might exist, is that felines and canines are true survivors— they adapt to their health issues and can hide them until the problem becomes too advanced to correct. “For pet owners, when you see your pet everyday, you sometimes don’t notice a change in their routine. Sometimes there isn’t even anything you notice. That’s why we always encourage regular vet checkups. Other than weight loss, it can be hard to notice a problem is developing initially,” she said. “But as well, I find being a vet is different from a human doctor in that a cat or dog doesn’t know how to fake pain. “They don’t have psychological symptoms that a vet needs to understand. If something is painful to them, it is painful. It is real.” bgerding@kelownacapnews.com

WEST Kelowna veterinarian Dr. Noa Oz. CONTRIBUTED

Lynda Bartie Lynda has a keen eye for detail and is passionate about helping people! As Vice President of Paladin Tax Credit Solutions Inc., a federally chartered firm, Lynda assists people with ‘health impairments’ navigate the complex application process for the Federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Lynda also assists ‘family owned businesses save money - ‘Employment Insurance Refunds for Canadian Family Owned Business’. If you employ family and deduct EI, you and your family members may qualify for a refund. In a series of management roles, Lynda has accumulated extensive experience in assisting local and national organizations as trainer; special events planner; travel operator; developing and implementing sales and marketing strategies; educational presentations. As a skilled presenter, Lynda promotes public awareness of the DTC and EI Refunds for Family Owned Businesses through public forums and lectures.

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Z22 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Sheila Kennedy Kathi Kennedy Simply delicious catering for your Okanagan events. Whether your requirements are large or small, Happy-tizers Catering can meet your needs. We have the knowledge and experience to make your event a smashing success! It is a full-service catering company specializing in wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners and business or private parties – offering everything from tasty appetizers to elegant meals. Happy-tizers Catering is a family operated, home based business and run by Mother and Daughter encorporating other family members when needed. Our food is all home made with good old fashioned home style cooking and we always provide lots of delicious food. It is affordable, comfortable, timeless and professional.

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CONTRIBUTED

RENEE Wasylyk, chief executive officer of Kelowna-based Troika Group, has been appointed to

Tel: 250-768-5763 Cell: 250-864-0417 www.happy-tizers.com From left to right:

Leanne, Tina, Yasmeen

the Premier’s Women’s Economic Council.

Council to offer advice on business for women

The chief executive officer of a Kelowna development company has been named to the Premier’s Women’s Economic Council. Renee Wasylyk, with Troika Development, The team at Letaya Salon and Spa works hard is one of 11 women from across B.C. named to to deliver the highest quality styles using the serve on the council. best products, and they do not stop there! The role of the council will be to offer adThey also change lives by building up the vice on how to expand women’s business confidence of every client that walks through their door. opportunities in key sectors. Tina is a senior stylist who has over 20 years of experience in the industry; completing “I want women to have every opportunity her training and apprenticeship in the middle-east, Tina has done hair in Europe, Edmonton, and to thrive as entrepreneurs and business leadKelowna. She is a co-owner of the salon and prides herself on having a keen eye for detail and flawless ers in B.C.,” said Premier Christy Clark, who is up-do’s. also the Liberal MLA for Westside-Kelowna. Leanne is also a senior stylist with over 10 years of experience, she loves to keep up with the most “That’s why I’ve asked some extraordinary current trends through attending hair shows, and training seminars. Leanne has done hair in women to bring fresh ideas on ways to grow Edmonton, Vancouver, Toronto, and now Kelowna. and develop economic opportunities that will Yasmeen (a.k.a Yazzy) is the senior esthetician at Letaya and truly does it all! Including services benefit the whole province.” from Brazilian waxes to pedicures, and everything in between. She has over 10 years experience in PWEC will offer advice to the premier, the Edmonton, Vancouver, and Kelowna. Not only has she had extensive training, she has been able to utilize her talents through run-way shows and photo shoots. In addition, she has been known as one minister of jobs, tourism and skills training and of the most advanced nail technicians through a vast variety of nail art all done by hand. minister responsible for labour, and the minister of state for tourism and small business on 103-330 Hwy. 33 W issues, strategies, policy changes and potential actions to tap into economic opportunities for Ph. 250-765-7400 women that will help strengthen B.C.’s econwww.letayasalonandspa.com omy. Visit facebook! Since 1994, Three Wishes Clothing Boutique new trends outus there,on that will be attractive coats, jackets, dresses and more. “From mining to forestry to digital media, in Penticton has offered high quality, beautiful and varied fashions and accessories to discerning women throughout the South Okanagan and beyond. An everchanging apparel collection follows trends gleaned from trade shows in Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, Las Vegas and New York. “Style is never static and there are always

to my customers,” notes Pat Currie, owner of Great events occur throughout the year… Three Wishes for the past 18 years. trunk shows, visits by jewelry designers such Customers will appreciate the full range of as Susan Rind, the semi-annual “Silly Sale” fashions offered at Three Wishes. Everything and more. Special orders are available, as is available, from casual to career and special well as custom, one-of-a-kind purchases. occasions. Friendly, experienced staff offer to Three Wishes is a vibrant, happening assist customers with their every wardrobe destination boutique, appealing to women need, from jewelry to shoes, designer jeans, of all ages and stages.

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Javita offers 2 types of all natural herb-infused instant coffee conveniently packaged in individual serving sleeves. The first, called ‘Energy + Mind’ is 100% South American Arabica & Robusta coffee beans As a customer, you will love the health micronized and infused with green tea, benefits, delicious taste and easy way to lose bacopa monnieri & gotu kola for energy, d pounds &Shar inches simply changing the a War r, Lindby en Degelde ie, Marilyn Helbling, n, Pat CurrThe nine Brow mind clarity, focus overall memory. pson,&Jean brand of your cup of coffee or tea to Javita. Thom a Lind tz, Mer y Sand second coffee is called ‘Burn + Control’ No pills, messy shakes or diet plans. Contact Pat looks at the future of women’s wear as Pat is passionate about keeping up with Pat Currie containing garcinia cambogia a preferred customer fashion,becoming jewelry and footwear trends, and an opportunity & for yerba self-expression andme self-about regardless of place or time. “Our about promoting self-respect and style in mate known to burnconfidence fat & calories, boost and having Javita shipped to your home on Pat’s background in Business product mix is always changing to reflect women’s apparel choices. Administration together with a love of new ideas and trends. I want a woman to metabolism & suppress appetite. Dr. Oz a monthly basis at wholesale prices. people and fashion has uniquely positioned know that she can live a casual life here in her to build Three Wishes into the complete the Okanagan but not feel out of place in fashion destination it is today. London or New York.”

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the women on this council all bring a unique perspective on a wide variety of key sectors in our economy,” added Shirley Bond, the provincial minister of jobs, tourism and skills training and minister responsible for labour. “By finding ways to break down barriers and create new opportunities for women in business, we’ll ultimately create more jobs and a stronger economy for everyone.” The PWEC and its chair will be appointed by the Premier and will consist of 11 members from various regions and industries, including business leaders representing the key sectors identified in the B.C. Jobs Plan. As the chief executive officer of the Troika Group, Wasylyk leads an organization including commercial and residential development projects and construction companies. Troika has projects in three provinces including commercial buildings, residential developments, and master-planned communities covering more than a thousand acres. Wasylyk was recognized as 2013 CHBAOC’s Large Single Family Homebuild-

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See Council Z23

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z23

Council from Z22

er of the Year and Multi-family Homebuilder of the Year, 2012’s UDI Maureen Enser Future Leader Award winner, as well as one of CHBA Canada’s Top 20 Most Influential People in Residential Development. “Women in British Columbia have a strong entrepreneurial spirit,” said Minister of State for Tourism and Small Business Naomi Yamamoto. “As we work towards the goal of making B.C. the most small business-friendly jurisdiction in Canada, this council will certainly play an important role in finding ways to ensure women are a part of the thriving small business sector in our province.” The initial intake of council members will consist of two and three year appointments and will meet quarterly with the minister of jobs, tourism and skills training and the minister of state for tourism and small business, with the premier attending at least one of the meetings annually. D The key objectives of PWEC are to: • support the ongoing goals of the BC Jobs Plan, adding a specific lens to issues affecting women in business • provide recommendations to government that will help develop new ideas, opportunities, actions, policies and legislation that will further support women business owners, leaders and workers in the province and drive new economic activity and job creation • bring attention to relevant barriers facing women in business in B.C. and provide advice eon how to minimize or eliminate them n • provide advice on how government can -work more collaboratively with women’s orgganizations with the goal of creating more opportunities for women in business s • consult with organizations, business nowners and key contacts throughout the provdince for feedback on the Jobs Plan and other key government initiatives with respect to supdporting women in business and their role as a skey economic driver g • support progress tracking on the BC Jobs sPlan and each of the sector strategies by providing direct input into the performance of key adeliverables set out in these documents, specif-ically focused on women’s issues. t Joining Wasylyk on the council will be:

-LYN ANGLIN - Anglin is a geologist with extensive exsperience in geoscience research and research management and is currently a consultant with 3Anglin & Associates Consulting. She served -as president and CEO of Geoscience BC from January 2006 to September 2013, and was re3sponsible for developing the organization into

a successful and highly respected non-profit geoscience research institute. Prior to joining Geoscience BC, she was the acting director of the Pacific division of the Geological Survey of Canada. In late 2013, Dr. Anglin was named to the inaugural list of 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining by Women in Mining (UK) at the international Mines and Money 2013 conference in London, UK.

SHAUNA HARPER

As a digital marketing strategist, community builder, speaker and trainer, Harper has been an entrepreneur for 14 years and is passionate about nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in her community. As the co-owner of Live Work Communications, a digital marketing company in northern B.C., her company specializes in corporate video production and online marketing strategy. She is the lead for Startup Prince George and is an advisor for Startup Canada’s PIVOT Magazine.

SHANNON JANZEN

Janzen was appointed chief forester of Western Forest Products in 2013. In her previous role as manager, strategic planning, she established strategic relationships with key stakeholders (e.g. First Nations, environmental groups and various levels of government) on the coast of B.C. She now oversees strategic business investments on Crown lands and ensures Western continues to demonstrate sustainability throughout their operations and through the safe management of their forest tenures. Harper is a registered professional forester and holds a bachelor of science in forestry from the University of Northern B.C.

MARGOT MIDDLETON

Middleton is the president of Middleton Petroleum Services Ltd. (MPS), located in Kamloops. Operating since 1987, MPS is a contracting business specializing in petroleum systems installations, maintenance and electrical. Middleton also serves on the board of the Resource Training Organization and is also vice-president of the BC Petroleum Contractors Association, a recently established association to support and move forward initiatives related to petroleum contractors and tradespersons in the industry.

LOIS NAHIRNEY

Nahirney is the executive vice-president of corporate resources for Teekay Corporation, responsible for global human resources, information technology, communications and services. See Council Z24

Shannon Bliss Shannon Bliss is the owner of Health is Bliss, a Wellness Center devoted to the health of its clients, in Kelowna and the surrounding Okanagan area. Shannon has been in business for 16 years and returned to Kelowna five years ago. Shannon is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner (CNP) and a Registered Ortho Molecular Health Practitioner (ROHP). Shannon works with clients who may be experiencing nutrient deficiencies and Dysbiosis which often present themselves as symptoms like headaches, indigestion, nausea, constipation, hormonal issues, weight gain, hair loss, rashes, etc. If not addressed they can lead to further health imbalances. A complete nutritional analysis can detect these. By specializing in, and utilizing Live Blood Analysis, Shannon is able to provide a protocol that will help you get back on track to a more vibrant, energetic and healthy lifestyle. If you are experiencing symptoms that cannot be explained or if they just don’t seem to go away, call and book an appointment with Shannon at Health is Bliss. Health is Bliss carries a complete line of professional supplements, master antioxidants, Homeopathics, weight loss support and now natural hair and body care to make your transition to health as simple as possible. Shannon can help you discover new holistic approaches to improving common ailments and promote a natural way of healing!

Health is Bliss

West Kelowna 250-801-2798

www.healthisbliss.ca Shannon@healthisbliss.ca

Nicole Begrand-Fast has led her boutique – style design firm for the past 16 years, building an exciting portfolio of projects. A spectacular team work alongside her. The team & culture is truly the brand at Begrand Fast Design Inc, as each individual lends their unique perspective, strength and ability on every project. ‘We create, we collaborate and we have fun. We bring our best performance to every project, with the objective of exceeding our clients expectations.’

BEGRAND FAST DESIGN INC 315 Lawrence Avenue Kelowna BC www.begrandfastdesign.com

Z24 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Key appointments on premier’s business council

Lisa Hilts Lisa Hilts has gained National and Regional recognition for her outstanding work in Commercial, Strata and Residential Homes. Lisa’s diverse background in negotiations combined with sharp marketing and sales skills are some of the many reasons why so many clients have come to trust Lisa with their largest financial investments and Real Estate decisions. Lisa commenced her Real Estate career in March of 2005, and in less than nine months Lisa went on to earn her first Master Sales Award. In 2006 Lisa achieved her Platinum Sales Award. In 2007 she was rewarded with the prestigious Diamond Award. 2008 she was bestowed with the 100 Percent Executive Club, Top 10% Club and Top 1% Club Awards. During 2009 - 2013 she has been complimented with the Top 10% Executive Club and the 100% Executive Club awards. Lisa’s road to success is a result of being a top producer month after month, year after year proving she has a recognized ability to negotiate. Lisa’s honesty and integrity has made her a confident people’s choice for Real Estate professionalism.

Council from Z23 Nahirney has over 25 years of experience as a senior executive and executive consultant across a broad range of industries including shipping, oil and gas, information technology, healthcare, power and utilities and pulp and paper. She has a doctorate and masters in business administration and an undergraduate degree in economics and political science. Nahirney is chair of the Women’s Executive Network in Vancouver and is on the boards of Junior Achievement, EasyPark and the Vietnam Education Society.

SHEILA ORR

250.878.6657

of the OKANAGAN

www.lisahilts.com

Georgette Johnson Georgette Johnson has been the proud owner and operator of Turtle Island Gallery, Kelowna’s Native Art Connection for the past eighteen years. Located in Cannery Lane, in the Heart of Kelowna’s arts and cultural district. The Gallery features beautifully created Northwest Coast works of art from various tribes along with featured distinguished native artists from across Canada. You will discover a stunning collection of wood and stone carvings, totem poles, original paintings and exquisite hand carved silver and gold jewellery. Come by for a visit and indulge yourself!

Everything Uniquely Native 115-1295 Cannery Lane, Kelowna 250-717-8235

Mon.-Sat. 10-5 & Sunday in the summer www.turtleislandgallery.com | /Turtle-Island-Gallery

Orr presently chairs a financial team handling high-wealth female clients, is the president of a residential development company and also serves as a board member of Knowledge Network Television. As a former MLA, she was appointed to Treasury Board for four years and as a two-term municipal councillor and a director for the regional district, she was involved in many economic committees including Tourism Victoria and was a founding member of the Victoria Film Commission.

TRACY REDIES

Redies is president and chief executive officer of Coast Capital Savings Credit Union and has 25 years of experience in the domestic and international financial services industry. She joined Coast Capital Savings in 2009 to lead the entrepreneurial-styled credit union in its quest to bring innovation to banking in Canada. A four-time recipient of WXN’s Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 award and inductee into the Top 100 Hall of Fame, Redies was recently ranked one of the Top 25 Women of Influence for 2013 in addition to being hon-

oured with Business in Vancouver’s Top BC CEO award.

EVA SUN

Sun is the CEO and president of The Rice People (aka. Libra National Inc.), a food processor based in Richmond that has been established for more than 30 years and trades with more than seven countries. Sun is a member of Women’s Presidents’ Network, UnitedSucces, Canadian Australian New Zealand Business Association, Taiwan Chamber of Commerce of B.C., The Executive Committee, an advisory board of GroYourBiz, and a board of director of BC Food Processors Association (BCFPA).

JENNIFER WILLIAMSON

Williamson is the director and chief flight nurse for LIFESUPPORT Patient Transport. A registered nurse and an active international flight nurse, she also oversees a staff of healthcare professionals who operate from bases in Parksville, Vancouver, Fort St. John, Toronto and Honolulu. In addition to overseeing a worldwide medical transport portfolio, Williamson is active in the development of paramedic and emergency medical programs for British Columbia’s growing LNG industry.

KIRSTEN WILSON

Wilson is the president of Jack Cewe Ltd., one of British Columbia’s largest privately-owned civil construction and aggregate mining businesses. Jack Cewe Ltd. is a family owned company that has been in business for more than 60 years, primarily operating in the Lower Mainland and the Sunshine Coast. Wilson has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Simon Fraser University and is a director of the BC Stone, Sand and Aggregate Association.

SHE SAID IT…

“I’ve come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint—and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you.” — Oprah Winfrey

You and your business deserve expert attention. Successful business owners like you have distinct needs, especially when it comes to investment planning for life after you hand over the reins. As a financial professional running my own practice, I work in your independent world every day and understand your situation and unique needs. Call us today to find our how The Plan™ can help you prepare for the future. Melanie Hall-Szyszkiewicz CFP, EPC

Senior Financial Consultant melanie.hall-szyszkiewicz@investorsgroup.com (250) 762-3329 ext. 263 1-877-541-2255 www.investorsgroup.com/en/melanie.hall-szyszkiewicz/home

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z25

Choosing a product to sell can seem overwhelming

Sheri Waters CCONTRIBUTOR

Choosing a product for your retail store to sell may every well be the most difficult decision you will need -to make when starting a retail hbusiness. f The choices are limitless and the task may be overwhelming at first. e Not only should there be a demand for your products, but it must be profitable and -something you enjoy selling. Before you commit to a product or product line, consider the following factors while deciding what products .to sell. l

MARKETABILITY

n Let’s face it, it won’t mat-ter what products you sell if ayour customers aren’t buying. Before considering what product to sell, determine rwhat market you want to sell to. Once you know what kind of customer you want, then you’ll be able to determine their needs. - If your products only apepeal greatly to some people, it ymay not be enough to sustain ra business. Your product selection doesn’t have to appeal to all of sthe population but it should be ysomething you can convince a large percentage of shoppers they need.

PROFIT MARGIN

Selling big ticket items is generally more profitable, but can require more credibility to sell. When you look at the price of the product, don’t forget to calculate direct and inydirect costs (like overhead) of selling your goods.

If you think you can sell 50 widgets a day for $1 each and the widget cost you 50 cents each, it may look like you have a profit of $25 per day. But when you learn your overhead expenses average $20 per day, you may find your profit isn’t sufficient even though sales are good. The best selling products won’t ever earn any real money if your margin is too small.

CONSUMABLE

Choose a product with recurring sales value. A consumable item that needs to be replaced on a regular basis is one way a retailer can establish long term sales. By establishing a customer base with recurring products, customers will continue to come back to you to buy more as they use up the products. As well, satisfied customers are more open to recommendations for related products.

WHAT’S POPULAR

When it comes to selecting products to sell based on what’s popular, timing is extremely important. New trends and products can be a great boost to your business but you’ll need to be at the beginning of the product lifecycle in order to be successful. Learning to pick a hot product before it becomes hot is a valuable skill that comes from knowing your market.

COMPETITION

Competition is healthy and there are ways other than volume and price a smaller

store can compete with larger retailers. On the other hand, the more unique the product, the less chance of competition.

PRIVATE LABEL

One way to guarantee having a truly unique product line is to make the item yourself. Another way is to partner with a small business that makes a product you would enjoy selling. Also consider private label products which will allow you to brand an item made by another person.

(l to r) Kayla Marks, Heather Eaton,

Dr. Noa, Lindsay Wilson & Nicole St. Arnault

Our Amazing Team

Rose Valley Veterinary Hospital has 5 Veterinary Assistants who help Dr Noa and Dr Oz in their veterinary practice. They also have a full time groomer, Vanessa Brunt. Their newest Veterinary Assistant is Kelsey Vetter. Along with admitting patients, dispensing necessary medications and specialty foods the women run the lab, deal with the cat boarding facility and lovingly take care of the animals in their charge. They also assist Dr Noa, who does most of the orthopedic and routine surgeries in the hospital. Their great love of animals inspire them all to go the extra mile to help all the animals of the community of Central Okanagan in many ways. We all appreciate them very much for their hard work and commitment to the hospital and its patients.

112-2476 Westlake Rd. West Kelowna 250.769.9109 www.kelownavet.ca

DIVERSITY

Keep your product offering simple in the beginning. If your product line is narrow and focused, then your marketing efforts can be just as tightly focused, which will bring you the best results for your marketing dollars. As your business grows, so can your product line as long as you keep new products compatible with the type of business, your location and your market. Some questions to keep in mind while selecting products for resale: Would you buy it and use it yourself? Can you see yourself getting excited about this product or service? Would you sell it to someone you know? Is there a real need for the product in today’s market? Can you imagine yourself selling this item for the next several? The key to having a successful business is to know your products and to believe in the merchandise that you are selling. If you do not believe in the product, then you probably won’t be successful at selling it.

Lori Burns & Jan Johnson Talk about a buzz! When you walk into this fun store created by local entrepreneurs Lori Burns and Jan Johnson, you know that you’ve arrived at a very happening place. Boxes of new styles being unpacked, girlfriends giggling in the change rooms, laughter and chatter as a long-time customer stops in for a quick visit to browse through new styles . This downtown mainstay caters to the woman of 35+ who has her own sense of style and wants to show it. Jan & Lori constantly bring in fresh styles from Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Europe and the U.S., so this is definitely not cookie-cutter clothing! They focus on relaxed, Okanagan-lifestyle fashions, with an emphasis on styles made in Canada. With low mark-ups, their prices are usually the best in town – and they are also known for their amazing selection of accessories – bags, scarves and gorgeous jewellery. Along with Manager Karen Gardner, the combination of their 3 fun personalities makes the store a true hot spot downtown. After many years in business, Jan & Lori decided to use their fashion contacts to bring in special deals (samples, close outs, line clearances) to delight Kelowna Fashionistas. “Fabulously Frugal” is the theme at Alleycat, the clearance outlet in the rear of the Tigerlily building. Back here, a whole outfit can be put together for $30.00 to $40.00 – no wonder it’s been so popular.

♥

Sandra Avila Sandra holds a Bachelor of Accounting Degree and a Diploma in Business Administration Management. She has over 20 years of experience in the industry working both independently for small and large organizations. Sandra speaks two languages, English and Spanish, and offers an array of services from bookkeeping, monthly financial statements, business analysis, payroll, inventory control and personal income tax. Through her practical experience in industry she has developed a detailed reporting package for clients requiring full monthly operational statements giving them complete control and insight of their finances. Sandra prides herself on giving value for money allowing her clients to concentrate on their business.

For more info please contact us at 250-212-7735 or email savilab@shaw.ca

Bobbi Story Heather Odermatt Rutland Optical has been operating in Rutland for over 40 years with Bobbi taking it over as an independent optical dispensary, specializing in custom fitting of frames, lenses and contact lenses 20 years ago. After working for a corporation it was nice to have a boutique setting to offer our valued cliental. We offer a great variety of unique eye wear for men, women and children and will accommodate after hours visits. We accept Rxs from all doctors and have a “no matter what” guarantee. We look forward to meeting you at our new location in Willow Park Shopping Centre in Rutland. Bobbi and Heather

Better stop in here and check out what the buzz is all about!

575 Bernard Ave., Kelowna 250-762-8384

R U T LA ND OP TIC AL

3 590 Hwy 33W Kelowna BC V1X 1X7 250.868.3480 www.rutlandoptical.ca

Z26 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Respiratory Homecare Solutions Wendy Dinwoodie and her family, moved to Kelowna 4 years ago to open the doors of Respiratory Homecare Solutions. dy, Barb Michelle, Wen

An organization that originated in Calgary 13 years ago and is a full service respiratory company that is locally owned and operated. Wendy, who is a registered nurse, shares her vast experience with a team of health care professionals. With a physician’s referral, Respiratory Homecare Solutions provides in home testing for sleep apnea, as well as the therapy to treat sleep disordered breathing such as CPAP/Bi-level Therapy. Oxygen therapy is also available. The staff at Respiratory Homecare Solutions is passionate about patient focussed care and providing efficient service that exceeds expectations.

Respiratory Homecare Solutions 1695 E Burtch Road Kelowna, B.C. V1V 2X3 250-762-0201

Bonita Kay Summers Intuitive Counsellor and Business Coach

With over 30 years’ experience in intuitive counselling and coaching, Bonita Kay Summers, owner of Spirit Kelowna Wellness, enjoys working with clients to transform limiting subconscious beliefs and habits into personal and professional success. In Kelowna and internationally, she offers counselling, Advanced PSYCH-K® and Therapeutic Touch™ to enhance wellbeing, relationships, career, and personal growth. Bonita’s insights into human consciousness also inform successful hiring and partnering decisions as well as facilitating effective change in the workplace. Her interactive workshops and speaking engagements have benefited employees at Interior Health, consultants with Mary Kay Cosmetics, and clients at Neurvana Innovative Recovery and Wellness, among others. Bonita’s finely honed intuition can generate in a few sessions results that would normally take months to acquire through conventional methods. Believing that our capacity for growth is only bounded by our minds, Bonita can empower you to discover your full potential. Bonita can be reached at www.spiritkelowna.com.

101 - 1433 St. Paul St., Kelowna bonita@spiritkelowna.com bonita.summers on Skype 250-863-5505 • www.spiritkelowna.com

Dragica Roy I have been in business for 19 years, and all is fine. Feeling great, and I have not aged past 29! Thanks to my many clients, business has been great. Cuts, perms, sets & streaks book now - don’t wait! A professional salon in North Glenmore, Open for business with a welcome on the door.

Adam Toren CONTRIBUTOR

Every entrepreneurial venture starts with a good idea, evolves to a bunch of amazing ideas, and with any luck, ends up as a successful business. But how do you move from that first idea to your final success? Having a big vision is so important, but that it doesn’t mean anything if nothing comes of it. Here are 10 steps to move your dreams into reality: 1. Define the difference. You need to be clear about how your product is unlike other competitors. Suppose your dream involves a new type of social media that lets you create online collections of visuals that people can share. Are you talking about Pinterest? Slideshare? Instagram? You need to set yourself apart. If your idea is not clearly defined, people may have a “been there, done that” view of it. 2. Look for the problem-need-want your idea solves. Will it shorten the time it takes to do something? Does it make it easier to find something? Can it make something more exciting or more functional? If your product or service doesn’t address an identifiable problem, need or want, why would anyone spend money on it? 3. Use clear, strong words. This is not the time to say, “It’s kinda like this…” Find the exact right words and avoid jargon. Instead, focus on a description that can fire the imagination. If you can’t get people excited about your idea, it’s not going to go anywhere beyond your head. 4. Do your homework. Are you the first with this idea, or will you have competition? Research online, visit conferences in your industry, talk to experts and search for mentors. Do your due diligence now. 5. Do your homework again. Even if no one else has your idea, someone may have another plan to solve the same issue your idea addresses. Look at any tangential businesses that may usurp your potential customer. You can do this determining and analyzing your competition. Think of this to help you: What might people spend their money or time on instead of your product or service? 6. Define your customer base.

If you say “everyone,” you’re just being lazy and you’re kidding yourself. Who are your product or service’s early adopters? Will people choose your idea over something they already spend time and money on, or will they decide this is a brand new way to spend time and money? Which people will really want what you have to offer, and who will have to be educated or talked into it? 7. Determine your resource requirements. What exactly do you need to get started? Can you build it in your basement using standard tools and materials? Does everything depend on a website that distributes the service? Can you handle the startup alone or do you need a team? And if so, a team that includes who? How much money do you need to get your idea off the ground? This is not a fast process. Expect to spend a fair amount of time on research, checking with suppliers, and talking with industry experts and specialists. 8. Build a prototype. Yes, this is critical with a product, but just as important if you’re offering a service. If you’re creating a service, your prototype can be a process map that details customer contact points and what has to happen internally to meet customer needs. A physical prototype should be working and include a clear understanding of function, reliability and production requirements. If you can’t actually build a real prototype at least have computer-aided designs with detailed specs. 9. Do the math. No plan is complete without a thorough financial analysis. This includes a realistic and convincing revenue projection and accompanying costs. You should be able to detail the estimated break-even point and future profits. A bush-league financial statement can kill even the greatest idea. 10. Write your plan. I’m not talking about the pitch you give potential money people—I mean your internal plan for taking your dreams all the way to the finish line. You need to have this in place for yourself, so that when you wake up tomorrow you know what to do. It will keep changing, and that’s okay. When you take the leap with your big vision, you’ll either bounce, crash or fly. But one thing’s for sure, you’ll never find out if you don’t take action.

Heather Friesen I opened Flip Flop Books in October of 2013. It had been my dream to own a bookstore since I was a girl growing up on the Westside. My parents have always been readers and instilled the love of reading in me at young age. You might ask me “WHY?” a used bookstore in this age of technology. Well, the answer is quite simple. I love not only reading, but books. A tablet will never replace the feel of a real book. It will never start an engaging conversation about what you are reading. Books are an escape from reality. You can go anywhere, see anything and feel another persons joy or sorrow. I read a huge variety of authors. Always trying to expand my list of books to recommend. If you are ever in need of a new author to start or just a really good book, stop by the store where I am always around to lend a hand. Book Clubs are my specialty, but I am well versed in the worlds of romance, suspense, fantasy and historical fiction. I can guarantee there are authors you have never heard of in your genre.

250-763-1608 is the number to call If you’ve got hair you’re welcome one and all. The best little hair salon you will find in all the land, When you look in the mirror you will say, “Oh, isn’t life grand”!

Dee’s Home Hair Care

Any new business dream requires some homework

Kelowna, BC 250-763-1608

Flip Flop Books... Worth Discovering.

Logo

150A GRAY ROAD RUTLAND 778-753-0655

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z27

Making connections in local business community Kathy Michaels STAFF REPORTER

With more than 20 years of history behind them, Kelowna’s Women in Business networking group has repeatedly changed to address its members’ shifting needs. Throughout all the necessary adaptations, however, its core function has been consistent. “Kelowna is a close-knit community and to be successful you need to build relationships and connections

‘‘

KELOWNA IS A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY AND TO BE SUCCESSFUL YOU NEED TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND CONNECTIONS… Patricia Chandler, Kelowna Women in Business

to learn about opportunities for employment and career advancement,” said current president Patricia Chandler. “Many women are unsure on how to approach networking, feel intimated by entering a room full of people they don’t know and (don’t know) how to ask for a referral or promote their business in a social environment.” It’s a challenge that Chandler believes rises from women’s tendencies to be quieter and less boastful of themselves and their accom-

SHE SAID IT…

plishments. The Kelowna Women in Business group addresses that issue by offering a friendly and welcoming environment where it’s easier to meet and build key relationships. “At each event we host a guest speaker on topics that are relative to personal development or skills that can assist women in being successful as business owners,” she said. They also promote local charities, and focus has been turned toward NOW Canada,

Arion Therapeutic Farm and the Wish Come True Society in recent years. Reaching beyond the confines of the group is always important as well, and KWIB allows its members to tap into services aimed at raising their profile in the community. For example, members are invited to post their profiles on the KWIB website, become included in the business member database, and on all their social media profiles. Chandler, who is the assistant branch manager

at Kelowna Mission Park branch of the Prospera Credit Union, has been in financial services for 20 years. She moved to Kelowna from Toronto in 2007 with her husband and son and has been a member of KWIB for four years. Of those four years, she’s served on the executive for the past two years, before becoming the KWIB president in 2014. kmichaels @kelownacapnews.com

SHE SAID IT…

“A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find “Don’t compromise yourself. You are all you’ve got. There is no yesterday, that voice can be remarkably difficult.” no tomorrow, it’s all the same day.” — Janis Joplin — Melinda Gates

Investors Group Financial Services Inc. Meet the professional women of Investors Group Financial Services Inc. who deliver the highest quality service to clients everyday. Experience the Investors Group Commitment for yourself. Karen Erickson CFP Regional Director

Nicole Roussel Associate Consultant, EPC

Catherine Jarawka

Melanie Hall-Szyszkiewicz

Anna-Marie Rasmussen

BComm, CFP, CLU, ChFC, CHS, FDS Senior Executive Financial Consultant

Catherine has been living and working in the Okanagan since 2010. Catherine’s practice is a general practice, which includes civil litigation, corporate law, real estate, and family law. She also conducts arbitrations and mediations as an independent contractor. Catherine has represented clients at the Provincial Court and the Supreme Court of British Columbia.

Carolyn Scott

Barbara Chapman

Catherine is a member of the Law Society of British Columbia and the Canadian Bar Association.

CFP, EPC Senior Financial Consultant

Consultant

• INVESTMENT PLANNING • RETIREMENT PLANNING • TAX PLANNING RRSPs & GICs • EDUCATION PLANNING • MORTGAGES • WEALTH PLANNING • ESTATE PLANNING

Landmark IV Suite 100 - 1628 Dickson Ave Kelowna, BC V1Y 9X1 Tel: 250-762-3329 • Fax: 250-868-9332 Toll Free: 1-877-541-2255 www.investorsgroup.com TM trademark owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations.

Barb Dumbovic Barb Dumbovic started her business making perogies and cabbage rolls in May 1995. For many years you could find Barb and her truck serving breakfast and lunch from May to October at the Farmers Market, and also on Sundays at the Rutland Hall. Barb has grown from those days to her own restaurant, Barb’s Delight, located in the Blue Heights Complex. Barb is serving up “food done right” Monday thru Saturday. Her menu has expanded to include many delicious dishes, soups, salads, and sandwiches and, of course, her amazing breakfasts. As well, frozen perogies and cabbage rolls are available for take home. Barb gives back to the community; one way is through her “Perogy Eating Contest,” where she has partnered with local charities to help raise funds and awareness. Watch for this year’s bigger and better contest to be held May 31st. One taste of her perogies and cabbage rolls will have you coming back for more!

Barb’s Delights

2789 Hwy 97 N, Kelowna, BC (778) 478-9921

Outside of the office, Catherine enjoys snowshoeing with her black lab, skiing and snowboarding at the local hills, paddleboarding on Okanagan Lake, and cooking. Catherine’s practice is dedicated to providing high quality legal services at a fair price. As a sole practitioner, she takes pride in her practice and truly enjoys her career.

Catherine Jarawka Barrister & Solicitor

Email: catherine@jarawkalaw.com Phone: 250.575.3701 Fax: 250.707.0609

Meaghan Alton Business owners - get out of overwhelm. Do work you love, live by your values, and get paid well! How do I energize my business and ramp up my results? How do I sharpen my goals and focus my energy to build amazing client relationships while improving my bottom line? Meaghan Alton, Growth Strategist, helps business owners become crystal clear on the most effective ways to revitalize their business, even if they don’t know where to start. She supports business owners to build the structure for a flourishing business. With the right structure in place, business owners are free to do work they love and enjoy greater profits. Along with a Master’s Degree in Economics, problem solving, uncovering possibilities, and a gift of creating structure for dreams are her secret ingredients to generating results. Meaghan began her journey in business school at Thompson Rivers University. Working in Aboriginal economic development, she learned first-hand what steps must be in place to support growth and financial prosperity. After completing a Master’s degree in economics from the University of Alberta, Meaghan worked as an economist and policy advisor with the Government of Alberta. She learned how financial tools and goal setting can work together to support collaboration to reach a common objective. Contact Meaghan today to qualify for a Maximize Your Results Business Assessment. You will discover what is holding you back from what you most want to achieve in business, and learn the steps you can take to Maximize Your Results!

Meaghan Alton, MA, BBA Growth Strategist

ALTON CONSULTING

www.meaghanalton.com info@meaghanalton.com (250)681-2049

Z28 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Kathy Wiebe Rosebuds is a lovely, large designer consignment boutique located on Kirschner Road in Kelowna that has been serving the Kelowna area for the past 25 years. Rosebuds carries about 30% new at any given time, and prices are often discounted up to 75% off regular retail. Many that come in say Rosebuds has the look and feel of a Los Angeles Boutique. Kathy laughs and replies that is the exact look and feel we are moving towards. We believe every woman can afford to look beautiful. Everything from prom and party dresses, to Lululemon workout wear and most everything in between. We specialize in higher end labels but at lower end prices. We have many regular shoppers that call us their “retail therapy” but we always have room for lots more new friends. In these troubled times consignment shopping can be a day full of fun and adventure. You never know what you are going to find so fill up your car with your friends and stop in and meet the friendly staff at Rosebuds Designer Consignment Boutique. We are here to serve you. NEW at Rosebuds. Designer inventory buyouts - selling at consignment prices. Fashion shows. Private Shopping Parties. Some estate services available. Cinderella Fund - for women going back into the workforce that need that little extra for a job interview outfit. Any age we are here to help.

150-1855 Kirschner Rd., Kelowna 250-861-1911 Open Mon-Fri 10-5:30 • Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-4

www.rosebudsconsignment.com

Carmelita Obradovic With over 30 years of sales and real estate experience, Carmelita has the expertise to benefit her clients whatever the market conditions. Carmelita is a very well respected and a successful real estate agent in the Okanagan Valley. Her hard work, determination, and commitment, along with her degree in Commerce, are the keys to her success. Carmelita maintains her position among the Top Producers in B.C. and the Okanagan Valley. She appreciates her family, friends and her clients for contributing and sharing in her success. Carmelita takes great pride in her career, continuing to deliver positive, honest and professional service to all her clients. Your referrals, trust and continued support are very much appreciated. Thinking of selling? Buying? Want quick results? Call Carmelita...

Experience... Confidentiality... and SUCCESS.

212-1980 Cooper Road Cell 250-215-8217 www.carmelita.ca carmelitaobr@shaw.ca

Friendship-focused business idea secures ﬁnancial backing

A Kelowna-based technology company A Million Acts of Friendship campaign, which has 150,000 new reasons to continue the valu- promotes healthy friendships and helps reduce able work it’s doing connecting families and negative behaviours, in class on the playground building community, thanks to funding from and at home. Community Futures Development CorporaAs students achieve friendship acts and tion of Central Okanagan. earn badges such as “Just Be Generous” and CFDC recently announced it would loan “Just Be Kind” parents receive email notifi$150,000 to Just Be FriendsTM—an inter- cations so they can follow the school’s progactive, social education platform that brings ress, and continue the friendship conversation people together online and in the real world. at home with their kids. “Community Futures is pleased to provide “Solving the current social disconnect and growth capital at the combringing people and neighmercialization stage of this bourhoods together in new well-developed and importways is something I’m pasant social cause business vensionate about, and I’m grateture that is expected to create ful to Community Futures up to 20 new jobs, and furfor understanding the vision RESEARCH SHOWS AS ther strengthen the growing and stepping up to support it,” SOCIETY HAS GOTTEN technology sector in the Censays Taylor. MORE CONNECTED tral Okanagan,” states Larry Initially launched in beta Widmer, general manager of last spring, Just Be FriendTECHNOLOGICALLY, sTM has now gathered a total Community Futures DevelopWE’VE of $800,000 from a handful ment Corporation of Central BECOME MORE of private investors, as well as Okanagan. DISCONNECTED seed funding from the SouthJust Be FriendsTM is a ern Interior Development Insafe and secure place online SOCIALLY. itiative Trust (SIDIT), and where people can connect Janice Taylor, the National Research Counand share with friends, family, CEO, Just Be FriendsTM cil of Canada Industrial Reneighbours, schools and search Assistance Program, groups in their community. which helps qualified small and “Research shows as society has gotten more connected technologically, medium-sized enterprises in Canada undertake we’ve become more disconnected socially,” technology innovation. explains founder and CEO Janice Taylor. The Community Futures Development “We’re solving that problem and bridging Corporation of the Central Okanagan is a comthe gap by celebrating the power of friendship munity based business and economic developand using technology to create real connec- ment organization funded primarily by Westtions and awaken the power of community, one ern Economic Diversification Canada. neighbourhood at a time.” Programs are governed by a volunteer On the website, users create a free account, board made up of local business professionals build their family profile, and get matched up and community leaders. with other families or neighbours based on Founded in 1990, the Central Okanagan ofcommon interests and skills. fice has made more than 800 loans totalling in Parents can also connect to their child’s excess of $19 million to help start or expand school participation in the Just Be FriendsTM businesses in the region.

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SHE SAID IT…

“A lot of people are afraid to say what they want. That’s why they don’t get what they want.” — Madonna

Linda Szerepi I started creating Dare to Dream years ago. The idea was to do something that I love while helping people improve their life by supplying products and services that are especially for them. We carry something for everyone, including jewellery, crystals, new age and self-help books, CDs and DVDs, Feng Shui and Colour Energy products and incense oils, salt lamps and unique gifts. We offer services like Reiki, Shamanic Healing, Massage, Foot Reflexology and Counselling. Also available: Aura, Chakra and Psychic Readings. One on one classes are available in Reiki and Shamanic Healing, 31 Day Personal and Spiritual Development, and weight loss programs are also available. I have enjoyed meeting and getting to know those of you who have come into the store over the years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my customers for supporting me and allowing me to help you or to introduce you to the world of Dare to Dream. I welcome others to come and experience all that we have to offer. Come in to relax, learn, grow spiritually and heal physically, emotionally and mentally.

E TO DREAM R DA Body, Mind & Spirit Centre

Brenda L. Fischer Brenda L Fischer is an Edward Jones Financial Advisor who has been helping clients meet their financial goals since 1986. Brenda brings extensive knowledge and depth of experience when preparing her clients financially for all life events. Working with clients, Brenda reviews their current financial situation, what stage of the life they are at and the time left to reach their financial goals. Next she develops a financial strategy tailored to a specific client’s need which may include: protection, investment and income generating strategies using insurance, mutual funds, equities, bonds and guaranteed investment certificates. Whether the client is saving for retirement, transitioning into retirement or living in retirement, Brenda takes great care to ensure their financial needs are met looking for ways to help maximize their savings including the transfer of the estate. Brenda looks forward to meeting with you at your earliest convenience for your free portfolio review. Please call or stop by anytime. Insurance and annuities are offered by Edward Jones Insurance Agency (except in Québec) In Québec, Insurance and annuities are offered by Edward Jones Insurance Agency (Québec) Inc. Edward Jones and its advisors are not estate planners and do not provide tax or legal advice. Review your specific situation with your tax advisor and/ or legal professional for information regarding, or issues concerning, the tax implications of making a particular investment or taking any other action.

www.edwardjones.com Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund

#33-2070 Harvey Avenue 250-712-9295 www.daretodreamkelowna.com

Brenda L. Fischer, CFP Financial Advisor 2690 Pandosy Street, Kelowna, BC Tel: (250) 712-0508 • Fax: 1-877-635-8240 brenda.fischer@edwardjones.com

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z29

40% of Okanagan businesses plan to exit their business in the next five years. Are you ready? Contributed

Exit Your BusinEss on Your tErms

If you are a business owner, you’ve invested years of your life and significant financial assets into developing a successful enterprise. But without a strategic approach to business succession planning, any value you’ve built may retire when you do. That’s why it’s important to have an exit strategy. It’s estimated that 40 per cent of business owners in the Okanagan plan to exit their businesses within the next five years. If you are in the same position, you need to start planning your exit strategy now. This will give you time to identify and groom potential successors,

clean up the company’s structure to ensure it is stripped of any redundant assets without incurring tax, and work towards maximizing the business’s income and its value.

idEntifYing succEssors

Identifying potential successors is often the most challenging part, particularly if there are next-generation family members working in the business. As a business owner you have to carefully consider whether family working in the business is interested in or capable of running the business, as well as family members who may not be involved in the business. It can be difficult to divide the owners’ estate equitably amongst all family members when a large portion of your net worth is tied

up in the business. Key employees or employee groups are other potential successors. However, you may need to look at providing partial financing. This should be explored well in advance, as you may need professional assistance to help structure a financing deal that works for all parties.

EnsurE a smooth transition

Karen christiansen

Whether your goal is to transfer ownership and management to family or to maximize the value of your business in an arm’s length sale, planning for the effective succession of the business itself is a key consideration. Many businesses are too dependent on key people because their knowledge and expertise have not been documented. When they move on, their knowledge goes with them. To avoid this, it’s important to document the strategies, tactics, processes and procedures that have made your business successful. This will also enhance the value of your business in the eyes of a potential purchaser. Remember, the more valuable you are to your business, the less value your business has.

Building valuE

Once a successor is identified, it’s time to focus on maximizing value and “cleaning up” the company. Knowing what your business is worth in advance can assist you in developing a negotiating plan and help you address those issues that may detract from its value. Demonstrating good cash flow and profitability is important, but potential purchasers will also want to see: • A strong management team at the top and secondary levels. • Accurate financial records that can be readily accessed. • Documented processes and systems. • Articles of incorporation and tax filings kept up to date. • Offices, plants and other facilities that are clean and in good repair. • Equipment in good working order. • A current web site.

tax stratEgiEs

SUCCESSION PLANNING ISN’T JUST ABOUT WHAT YOU’RE LEAVING BEHIND— IT’S ABOUT WHAT LIES AHEAD. An ExitSMART™ succession plan can help you take care of your family, finances and stakeholders, when you’re ready to move on from your business. MNP’s succession professionals work closely with you to create the peace of mind and financial security you need to enjoy the next phase of your life. To ExitSMART™, contact Karen Christiansen, CPA, CA at 250.979.1735 or karen.christiansen@mnp.ca

ExitSMART.ca

The amount and timing of tax paid on a business sale can significantly impact your retirement. Many tax restructuring transactions must be completed long before the sale process begins. Talk to a taxation specialist well in advance to ensure that your tax structure allows maximum flexibility for estate planning, income and capitals gains considerations.

final thoughts

Remember, if you are in business, it is your job to determine how you are going to get out of business. Otherwise, you may be faced with limited succession options – and less cash in your pocket. Having a plan allows you to proactively build value in your business so you’re able to exit on your terms. Karen Christiansen, CPA, CA is a Business Advisor, Private Enterprise with MNP LLP Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. For more information, contact Karen at 250-979-1735 or karen.christiansen@mnp.ca

Z30 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

CONTRIBUTED

Jaime Briggs Jaime has been an award-winning professional REALTOR with Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty since 2006. Jaime specializes in relocation, selling/listing residential homes and new home construction. Jaime has always been highly involved in the Kelowna business community and is a member of the Downtown Kelowna Rotary Club. Jaime knows the real estate market is a busy and ever changing industry. As one of the top REALTORS® in her office, she works hard to keep up-to-date on the newest innovative technology and ongoing changes in the marketplace. For the latest Real Estate advice, market statistics and property listings go to www.BriggsOnHomes.com

250.215.0015

www.BriggsOnHomes.com www.facebook.com/Jaime.BriggsRealtor

YOGA classes in the workplace is an aspect of mobile yoga class instruction that Innergy CorporateYoga has turned into a growing national franchise.

Yoga entrepreneur able to balance family and work Barry Gerding EDITOR

Lynn Roberts took her first yoga lesson 12 years ago while living in Edmonton. She was interested in yoga but had no idea what she was doing in the first class and had a hard time understanding the accent of her instructor. “I played along with it back then but even at that time, I started to feel how stretching my body through yoga left me feeling good,” Roberts recalled. She moved from Edmonton to Vancouver, signed up for a yoga class there and fell in love both with the exercise form and received positive reinforcement from her teacher. That reinforcement has since led Roberts

to start up her own teaching program for yoga instructors who offer mobile yoga instruction and the franchising of Innergy Corporate Yoga. Roberts relocated to Kamloops with her husband five years ago but it hasn’t stopped her vision for growing her business on a national scale. “My home office is here and it works well. With technology today, I can deal with people across the country very easily,” Roberts said. “I can Skype or talk to other instructors in our program on the phone or via email. I don’t really need to travel that much in this day and age.” She has recently hooked up with a yoga in-

See Yoga Z31

Uptown Rutland Business Association Laurel, Shawna, Crystal & Dawn

The women who sit on the Uptown Rutland Business Association (URBA) board give their time, talent and energy. URBA is fortunate to have them. Here is what these ladies bring to the table: Women are better connectors - Laurel D’Andrea, Executive Director for URBA, thrives on connecting the dots. She feels a strong network means URBA will be better resourced throughout the year. By leveraging connections, URBA will reinvent the wheel less and learn fewer lessons the hard way. Women are better at multitasking - Shawna McCrae, Branch Manager at Valley First Credit Union in Rutland is one of the best when it comes to multitasking. She can work towards multiple priorities and balance multiple roles simultaneously. Shawna won’t shy away from a full plate and is equipped to handle her role as an URBA Director. Women are perfectionists - Crystal Hansen, Lawyer at Benson Law LLP crosses the T’s and dots the I’s as the URBA President. She has high standards and won’t settle for mediocre efforts or results. URBA saves money and time thanks to Crystal’s commitment. Women believe success comes from hard work not just from being “outstanding.” Dawn Thiessen, Owner of Aphrodite in Me Spa works hard and URBA thinks that’s awesome! Her passion for Rutland is what Dawn focuses on when she wears her URBA hat as 2nd Vice President.

158 Valleyview Rd., Kelowna, BC • 250.451.9861 • www.uptownrutland.com

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z31

Yoga from Z30

that changes when they begin to see a change in the attitude of their employees, that they didn’t seem as stressed out.” structor in Kelowna, Quentin Little, who is She added the other interesting aspect of now offering a mobile yoga class service here. Roberts said while she recognized her pas- yoga classes in the workplace, she said, was particularly with larger office staffs, many sion for yoga as she initially began to learn people come for the lesson and meet other more about it, she saw a potential business opportunity. But she also had in the back of her co-workers they had never met before, even though they work in the same office for the mind the desire to start a family, and to find a same employer. balance between work and home. As well, Roberts said not everyone who “I didn’t have my daughter until I was two likes yoga wants to go to a years into my business but I yoga studio, in the same way knew kids was part of my fupeople who like to workout ture plan.” don’t necessarily want to go Roberts had the initial to a fitness gym. business idea to open her own “I think the big attraction yoga studio, but asking for for our program is the conadvice from other yoga invenience,” she said. structors who had followed Roberts said her early that path offered her some inyears were a struggle, and that valuable advice. she had to rely on her heart The lesson she learned is and passion for yoga to keep that operating your own stuthe business going. dio means an additional busiLynn Roberts “We weren’t making any ness overhead expense which money in those first years, and can be become a massive comyou are pouring money into things like develmitment of your time to meet that cost. “So instead of a situation of having to have oping a website and marketing in general,” she recalled. classes day and night to pay for operating a “I didn’t have a studio overhead but there studio, I thought about the mobile aspect of taking lessons directly to clients. Yoga is some- are definitely still some expenses there to deal with. thing you can do just about anywhere, you “But I worked hard and persisted with it. I don’t necessarily need a studio,” she said. “You believe if you really love what you are doing, can do it in a park, you can do it in a backyard you will find a way to make or in a boardroom.” it work. It just takes a little So Roberts embarked on elbow grease to work it. You her mobile yoga instruction wake up everyday ready to business plan, with the idea go and believe in what you’re of encouraging employers to I DIDN’T HAVE MY doing.” hire, pay for, or cover some of DAUGHTER UNTIL Today, Roberts said she the cost for Roberts to bring has found that balance beher lessons directly into the I WAS TWO YEARS tween raising her 5 and 7 workplace. INTO MY BUSINESS year-old kids, juggling work “My thought was people BUT I KNEW KIDS and her home life, and is trysit in their offices all day and WAS PART OF MY ing to help others to do the the only time they get away same thing through her yoga from that is to go for lunch. FUTURE PLAN. instructor training program. So my thought was to offer a Lynn Roberts “I have a business now 45-minute yoga lesson in the that doesn’t require me to workplace,” Roberts said. work 70 hours a week to make “Some employers in Vancouver when we it work, and I have the added benefit of practistarted were willing to pay for it, to give their cing yoga myself along with my family to help employees a bit longer lunch for the lesson, keep me grounded. and some weren’t. “I am excited by the opportunity to extend “I think some of the employers kind of that opportunity to others.” wondered about the benefits of it at first but

‘‘

SHE SAID IT…

“Whatever you do, be different—that was the advice my mother gave me, and I can’t think of better advice for an entrepreneur. If you’re different, you will — Anita Roddick stand out.”

Laura Barmentloo operated since 2002.

EXPRESSIONS... (formerly Rafters) is locally owned and

We specialize in unique and unusual home decor accessories and gifts. Sourcing out the latest products and the newest trends yet still maintaining the most requested items. We carry a large assortment of wall art, canvas and prints and large floor vases. Our staff is happy to help you build a table centerpiece or candlescape to suit your decor. We invite you to view our displays of new stock arrivals and get some free decorating ideas. So whether you need a gift or that final decorating touch or just a ‘relaxing browse’… There’s always a reason for EXPRESSIONS.

We’re like fashion for the soul.

230-2469 Hwy. 97N Kelowna • 250-868-8261 Mon.-Sat. 9:30-5:30pm Sunday 11am-4pm

2014 Executive 2014 Executive

(left to right) Reen Rose, Treasurer; Reen Rose Corporate Training Patricia Chandler, President; Prospera Credit Union (left to right) Michelle Belanger, Communications & Paypal Director; Belanger Communications Ltd. Reen Rose, Treasurer; Reen Rose Corporate Training Julie Rae Russell, Social Media Director; Novarae Interiors Patricia Chandler, President; Prospera Credit Union Lisa Alentejano, Special Events Director; Invis Director; Belanger Communications Ltd. (left to right) Michelle Belanger, Communications & Paypal Becky Robar, Speaker Director; Western Financial Reen Rose,Russell, Treasurer; ReenMedia Rose Director; CorporateNovarae TrainingGroup Julie Rae Social Interiors Julie Hoffman, Sponsorship Director; JulieHoffmanTV.com Lisa Alentejano, Special Events Director; Invis Patricia Chandler, President; Prospera Credit Union (absentRobar, in Belanger, picture) Becky Speaker Director; Western Financial GroupBelanger Communications Ltd. Michelle Communications & Paypal Director; Julie Hoffman, Sponsorship Director; JulieHoffmanTV.com Michelle Duford, Website Director; Duford & Associates Julie Rae Russell, Social Media Director; Novarae InteriorsLtd. (absent in picture) Jackie Froese, Membership Director; Travel Specialist at KVI Travel Lisa Alentejano, Special Events Director; Invis Michelle Duford, Website Director; Duford & Associates Ltd. Shae McEachnie, Venue Coordinator Human Becky Robar, Speaker Director; WesternDirector; Financial GroupResources Student

2014 Executive

Jackie Froese, Membership Director; Travel Specialist at KVI Travel

Julie Sponsorship Director; JulieHoffmanTV.com ShaeHoffman, McEachnie, Venue Coordinator Director; Human Resources Student (absent in picture) Michelle Director; on Duford & Associates We have Duford, a fresh Website new executive board this year.Ltd. Kelowna Women in Business Jackie Froese, Membership Director; Travel Specialist at KVI Travel is your typical group. Wethis areyear. about making connections and Wenot have a fresh newnetworking executive on board Kelowna Women in Business Shae McEachnie, Venue Coordinator Director; Human Resources Student working together towards meetinggroup. the business our members. We provide is not your typical networking We aregoals aboutof making connections and

a comfortable networking environment and offer education, encouragement and working together towards meeting the business goals of our members. We provide ainspiration comfortable networking environment and offer education, encouragement and through friendship, support and respect. inspiration friendship, support and respect. We have Women a through fresh new executive on board this year. organization Kelowna Women in Business Kelowna in Business (KWIB) is a non-profit that was created Women in Business (KWIB) is a non-profit organization that was created isKelowna not your typical networking group. We are about making connections anda in 1993 and today we communicate and connect with over 600 women. We are in 1993 and today we communicate and connect with over 600 women. We are a working together towardswomen meetinginthe our members. provide group made of business thebusiness Kelownagoals and ofOkanagan areasWe looking to group made of business women in the Kelowna and Okanagan areas looking to agrow comfortable networking environment and own offerbusinesses education,orencouragement and as professionals, whether running their working for others. grow as professionals, whether running their own businesses or working for others. inspiration through friendship, support and respect. We invite all Kelowna and Okanagan area women to join us at our monthly events, We invite all Kelowna and Okanagan area women to join us at our monthly events,

as to join our our ranks to to (KWIB) take advantage advantage of great great membership benefits and Kelowna Women in Business is a non-profit organization that benefits was created as well well to join ranks take of membership and opportunities through online database. Visit us online online atWe kwib.org in 1993 and today we our communicate and connect with over women.at are a opportunities through our online membership membership database. Visit600 us kwib.org to learn learnmade moreofand and follow women us on on Facebook, Facebook, twitter and and LinkedIn. group business in the Kelowna andLinkedIn. Okanagan areas looking to to more follow us twitter grow whether running own businesses or working upcoming announcements fortheir our monthly events. Hope to seefor youothers. there. Watchasforprofessionals,

We invite all Kelowna and Okanagan area women to join us at our monthly events, as well to join our ranks to take advantage of great membership benefits and Kelowna Women in Business opportunities through our online membership database. Visit provides us online at kwib.org to networking, learn more and follow usinspiration on Facebook, twitter and and LinkedIn. education to

Kelowna Women in Business provides networking, inspiration and education to Watch for upcoming announcements for our monthly events. Hope to see you there. support the success of women in business. support the success of women in business.

kwib.org kwib.org

Kelowna Women in Business provides networking, inspiration and education to support the success of women in business.

Z32 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Nadine Westgate As managing Broker/Owner of Realty Executives of the Okanagan, it is an exciting time to be in the industry seeing the New Year’s markets continue to strengthen and maintain a steady upward trend with sales activity of all MLS property types up 30% compared to this time last year. We are delighted, as well, to see Realty Executives International named once again to Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 list for 2014. As a connected caring family in the business to get results, we are differentiated with a basis of innovation and integrity. Maintaining an office culture that facilitates revolutionary technologies and the right tools to stay ahead of marketing trends, we offer enhanced 2014 training programs designed for the productive real estate professional – enabling them to better serve the market, and ensuring a superior experience for our clients. Internationally affiliated, and representative of the Okanagan’s entrepreneurial nature and spirit, we offer a full service brokerage (residential, commercial and property management) with centrally located offices in Kelowna, Vernon and Lake Country. We look forward to serving you.

Please visit us at

212-1980 Cooper Road, Kelowna

of the OKANAGAN

or www.realtyexecutivesokanagan.ca Deanne Neufeld 250.861.5122 or call us at

BSW, MSW, RSW, RPC

Colleen Brown SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE

Colleen is widely recognized as one of the Okanagan’s leading print professionals. With over 25 years experience in the industry, she is an invaluable asset to both Westkey and her clients. Westkey has had a presence in the valley for 30 years, offering full production and manufacturing at its Kelowna facility as well as other locations throughout BC and Alberta. This enables Colleen to provide quick turn-around at the highest quality on all facets of your print requirements. Whether it’s a short run of business cards, banners, signs, or a larger more complex print project, Colleen is the perfect fit to manage and handle all aspects of your print strategy.

Cell: 250.808.6484 1660 Innovation Drive Office: 250.765.6661 Kelowna, BC www.westkeygraphics.com V1V 2Y4 colleenb@westkeygraphics.com

Deanna Stone Deanna moved to Kelowna in 2008 to start her career in law after completing her Bachelor of Law degree at the University of Alberta. Deanna focused her practice in the areas of Estate Planning, Real Estate, and Business Law. She enjoys establishing personal connections with her clients and assisting them with big life moments including buying and selling their homes, starting new businesses or growing existing ones. Deanna’s practice also includes employment law, strata property law and first nations land transactions. Deanna is actively involved in the community as a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Okanagan, Ringette Canada, the Kelowna Apple Triathlon, and the Kelowna Bar Association. When not at work, she enjoys spending her winter weekends up at Big White. In the summer she can be found on the biking trails or on the lake soaking up the beautiful Okanagan sunshine.

410-1708 Dolphin Ave. Kelowna, BC, V1Y 9S4 T: 250.980.3362 F: 250.868.9011

Start on the right foot with running program

ew year, new commitment to fitness, right? With the start of 2014, you may have made New Year resolutions to start running, or to take your running to the next level by completing your first marathon or half marathon. There are many factors to consider when you start to run or train for longer races. One major consideration is to avoid injuries. Shin splints are a common injury that physiotherapists see in clinic. Shin splints are an umbrella term used to describe pain and discomfort in either the front or back portion of your shin. It usually presents in the lower 1/3 of the leg in the muscles around the tibia (shin bone). It typically has a dull ache but can be sharp and severe pain. Shin splints often start at the beginning of the workout, it may or may not disappear during the workout, and then returns after you finish your workout. Patients may also complain of soreness to touch and swelling. Shin splints are often associated with running injuries, especially for long dis-

KEEPING YOU MOVING

Adam Bernard tance runners, novice runners, overzealous fitness fanatics, and for those just increasing hill training. You may also see it with dancers, tennis players, basketball players, or high divers, but it is not exclusive to these athletes. Some of the major causes of shin splints include: • changes in running surface and terrain • changes in training regimes • poor foot or ankle biomechanics • poor running mechanics • muscle imbalances • being overweight • or being unconditioned and doing too much, too fast. Typically your health care professional will want to rule out several conditions with the most serious being stress fractures and compartment syndrome. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment usually starts out conservatively with ice, ultrasound, and interferential cur-

rent to control pain and swelling. Your doctor may also try to control inflammation with the use of some medications. There will be discussions about activity modifications such as no hill running. There may be other treatments to try such as taping or orthotics, and your physiotherapist may focus on some stretching and strengthening exercises. If conservative treatment does not appear to be helping, aggressive treatment may be considered. This may include a cessation of activity altogether, immobilization, or in some cases, surgery. Recovery from this injury can be long and frustrating and it can really impede your goals—whether that includes getting back in shape or completing your first marathon. So remember, progress your training at a reasonable rate and make changes in your routine slowly. Happy running! Adam Bernard is an avid runner and a registered physiotherapist at Sun City Physiotherapy in Glenmore. glenmore @suncityphysiotherapy.com

SHE SAID IT…

“Instead of looking at the past, I put myself ahead 20 years and try to look at what I need to do now in order to get there then.” — Diana Ross

“The question isn’t who’s going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” — Ayn Rand

Tracy Gray Tracy Gray opened Discover Wines in 2003 after a long career in the BC wine industry. She has served on various Boards including an elected position for Prospera Credit Union, The Clubhouse Child Care Society, and provincial government appointed tribunal Passenger Transportation Board. She volunteers for many organizations including UBC Okanagan, School District 23, and Women’s Enterprise Center speaking about small business, women in business and entrepreneurship. Discover Wines is the number one BC Wine Store in the Province. Their Wine Club members comment they have “the best Wine Club in BC”. They have a passionate team who focus on promoting locally grown products, food and wine pairing, and corporate gifts. Accolades include Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award, RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur of the Year, Okanagan Life Readers Choice Best Wine Store, Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist. Join our newsletter, like us on facebook, or follow us on twitter.

www.discoverwines.com

2080C Springfield Road Kelowna, BC V1Y 9N7 250-868-3990

CAPITAL NEWS

Women build it better

Women in Business 2014 5 Z33

One woman’s innovative vision to challenge the old boys’ construction model One B.C. woman is challenging the old building model in a fierce and dedicated way that is creating a buzz locally and across the province. Krystine McInnes, development designer with Athena Contracting, has been shaping her vision for the construction industry since 2005. She is now taking her experience and knowledge to the next level in a new wave of construction philosophy. What McInnes is referring to is what she calls a Holistic Building Model, where she integrates things such as green building innovations with cost saving rebates for the end-purchasers, artistic design features that showcase local artists and important cost sav-

ings that lower development costs, creating more affordable housing. A small-scale version of this model is the most recent project she has completed called Gaia Green Living Townhomes in Vernon. “Gaia is a great working model for us, we took a boutique project and integrated design features that maximized saleability and marketability of the project, sustainable green living features and PowerSmart Rated homes that lowered monthly costs for homeowners and creative financing structures that allowed first-time buyers into the market without compromising the developer bottom line,” she said. “It’s what we call a win/

win/win. Homeowners are looking for ways to be smarter with their dollars—creating incentives for them to save money, get cash rebates, find homeownership sooner and lower their carrying costs as well as encouraging healthier green lifestyles that, we hope, will impact their lives and wellbeing in a positive way.” In addition to the Gaia Green Living project, McInnes has moved her design concepts into the seniors housing industry, creating an innovative 80-unit Eden Green Living Seniors Housing Project set to move forward in 2014. “We know women think in a much more holistic sense of things, we are non-linear and I was tired of seeing such linear thinking in construction

that was missing relevant and important pieces in how we live,” McInnes said. “We don’t live in a linear stream, our lives are diverse and multi-faceted.

It’s never too late.. or too early to get started Talk to me today about Money for Life – Sun Life Financial’s customized approach to your financial and retirement planning1.

Christine Lwowski Tel: 250-860-6403 ext 2253 christine.lwowski@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/christine.lwowski

SHE SAID IT… “I work really hard at trying to see the big picture and not getting stuck in ego. I believe we’re all put on this planet for a purpose, and we all have a different purpose… When you connect with that love and that compassion, that’s when everything unfolds.” — Ellen DeGeneres “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.” — Judy Garland

“Our environment has a massive impact on our well-being and it is my mission to create beautiful, harmonious environments for people to love and enjoy.”

“I believe that a home should be the same—encouraging healthy living, leverage our financial position to create wealth and be a beautiful, living piece of art to call home.

1 Only advisors who hold CFP (Certified Financial Planner), CH.F.C (Chartered Financial Consultant), F.Pl. (Financial Planner in Quebec), or equivalent designations are certified as financial planners. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2014.

Life’s brighter under the sun

'Serving BC Communities for 30 years’

Elena is co-owner of Pharmasave Glenmore, along with her husband Craig, doing business in Kelowna as Pharmasave since 1997. Born and raised in Kelowna, Elena is the proud mother of three. She completed her degree at UBC in 1987 and taught for school district 23 for 13 years. Elena always has Elena Tostenson volunteered with various charities and groups in the community all the while being actively involved in her business. Now that all three of their children have completed high school, Elena is excited about dedicating more time to managing their business. Elena loves managing her neighbourhood pharmacy, especially being a Glenmore girl herself. She believes that the success of their business is due largely in part to being different than the average pharmacy. Pharmasave Glenmore offers many unique services and products to satisfy the needs of their customers. Elena believes that by having a dedicated and friendly staff, getting to know their customers and always looking for new ways to offer personalized customer service, Pharmasave Glemore fills a need in the market.

I am proud to introduce the staff of Pharmasave Glenmore. I truly believe that the key to the success of our business is having people work with us who have the work ethic and confidence to deliver exceptional customer service each and every day. These ladies love their work and that is demonstrated daily in the care they take with our customers. Our staff provide many services not provided in every pharmacy. Pharmacists Adele and Cindy, along with the rest of our pharmacist team, provide travel medicine advice and vaccines, compounding of specialty medicines, vitamin consultation, medication management as well as excellent support and consultation on prescription medications. Lorraine our Registered Nurse on staff, is fully certified to provide foot care services in our private clinic room. Lorraine also consults on first aid and home health care products, support stocking fittings as well as the administration of vaccines. Our delivery customers receive a call each week from one of our friendly staff to ensure that all of their front store needs are included along with their weekly prescription delivery. Our staff are all trained in various skills for example, the fitting of braces, support stockings, and ear plugs as well as to offer advice on all of our products including skin care and cosmetics or to help find that special gift in our gift and card section. The members

Adele, Frances, Faye, Lisa, Sarah, Linda, Lorraine, Elena (missing: Cindy, Ashley, Elisa) of the Pharmasave Glenmore team are all actively involved in the community by supporting local groups and charities. A well rounded and diverse group of women, who are outgoing, friendly and share the common goal and passion of getting to know their customers by providing them with excellent and personalized service, are part of our exceptional team at Pharmasave Glenmore. These ladies truly help make our business successful as they understand our vision and put it into practice every day.

437 Glenmore Rd. #105 • Kelowna, BC • (250) 861-4443 www.pharmasavekelowna.com • Visit us on Facebook Pharmasave Kelowna-Glenmore

Elena

Z34 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Advertorial

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with a specially formulated (Forever Seal) that increases the strength and durability. The result is an engineered surface designed to outperform natural slab granite that is heat, scratch and stain resistant – essentially maintenance free – and backed with the company’s Lifetime Warranty. Additionally, the surface is permanently sealed and is therefore non-porous so you never have to worry about germs and bacteria hiding out in the stone surface. The business philosophy of Granite Transformations of Kelowna is to provide superior customer service and a quality finished product every time. Granite Transformations is manufacturer-owned; they sell what they manufacture and stand behind the product that they install in your home. All installers work exclusively for Granite Transformations and are Granite Transformations accredited so the customer doesn’t have to worry about the often unreliable schedule of a contracted middle man. With friendly knowledgeable

staff and a fantastic product the customer is sure to be satisfied with their new countertop, backsplash or cabinet reface! Even more impressive still, the company is involved in a worldwide effort to produce more materials with recycled content and to reduce their impact on the environment. The Trend Glass product is produced with up to 72% post-consumer recycled glass and a low carbon emission production process. By re-surfacing existing surfaces Granite Transformations can divert over 18 million lbs of waste from the landfill worldwide per year. Additionally, Granite Transformations is recognized by numerous associations and certifications such as The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute, NSF International, and the U.S Green Building Council, just to name a few. Granite Transformations truly is a product that you can feel good about having in your home. To compliment the outstanding offering of countertop and backsplash materials Granite

Transformations also offers cabinet refacing services. Cabinet refacing is where your old doors are replaced with new doors with virtually an unlimited array of styles and colors to choose from. All associated gable ends are then veneered to match the colour of the new door chosen. This service reduces the cost of a traditional cabinet remodel to over 50% of traditional methods and you’re not limited by adding custom items either. Granite Transformations Kelowna services the greater Okanagan Valley with services extending out to Kamloops. In addition, they offer free in-home consultations with a design consultant so customers can see the colors in their homes and feel comfortable with the design choices they make. The Showroom in Kelowna is located at 100 – 740 McCurdy Road (4 blocks east of highway 97). Hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 9am – 5pm, Saturday 10 - 4. The store phone number is 778-753-1733. Call today to book your free in home consultation!

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Visit our showroom 4 blocks east of Hwy. 97 on McCurdy

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z35

Pay attention to your own gut instincts Bonita Kay Summers

sages become more detailed as we learn to follow gut feelings into our deeper states of consciousness. Like many women, I was conditioned from I have kept slots open on my schedule a young age to be a nurturer. Ask me for help hours or days before the client calls to book the and I was there, getting that “feel good” high appointment. from being needed. My gut will help me determine what chair As with any high, there was the inevitable to sit in at a meeting or which people to apcrash, leaving me with no enerproach, so that I connect with gy to attend to matters importthe folks I’m meant to meet. ant to me. As our confidence in our inNot only is this experience tuition builds, we learn to turn common for women, it can lead down enticing proposals when us to jobs or relationships that our gut instinct dictates we don’t serve our needs. should, only to find that more So happy to be wanted, we suitable opportunities emerge. fail to ask the question, “Is this Sometimes, I choose not to situation right for me?” help when I am asked. This results in feelings of If I know I am not meant to being overwhelmed, resentment be there, it’s because the peoand fatigue. ple who requested my assisBonita Kay Summers We lose the joy that comes tance are really supposed to figwith service when we constantly ure it out on their own, or the supfeel “on call.” port they need is meant to come from someone For our lives to have balance, it’s not only else. acceptable, but appropriate at times to say ‘no.’ One aspect of leadership is delegation. This Refusing to help may seem self-serving. can be indirect, where we simply move aside Yet, for women to be successful leaders at and create space for the right person to step in. work and in our communities, we must learn It requires that we recognize when our to intuitively apply our efforts, and we do so by knee-jerk reaction to help out is really serving following our gut instinct. our desire to feel good about ourselves than to This is no cliché. The enteric nervous sysactually assist the other person. tem is comprised of more than 100 million To be a leader in our lives and our work, it’s neurons, leading scientists to term the intestiimportant that our energies are applied with nal tract our “second brain.” It functions as a great discernment, so that we serve others and direct connection with our feeling sense, or in- our own purpose in a state of balance. tuition. To be truly effective, be sure to follow your gut instinct. To operate with greater awareness, we can tune in to our body’s intuitive intelligence. Bonita Kay Summers runs her own homeWhenever I am asked to ‘help out,’ I check based business Spirit Kelowna, offering intuin with my belly. If it feels relaxed, I can paritive counselling and business and life coachticipate. If I get abdominal tightening or discomfort, ing. the message is ‘no’ or ‘not yet.’ These meswww.spiritkelowna.com CONTRIBUTOR

SHE SAID IT… “I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism. And that’s how I operate my life.” — Oprah Winfrey

Leesa Fournier REALTOR

Knowing your local market is expected of a realtor, understanding a client’s needs and desires AND DELIVERING ON THEM...is what I do! My dedication and determination to have all my clients satisfied is paramount. I am a proud Okanagan resident, mother of 3, bilingual professional. I am hard working, enthusiastic and organized. I will earn your trust, because I deliver results. Whether it is the sale or purchase of a HOME, CONDO, LAND or INVESTMENT, when you choose me, you are making the right choice. Call me. Let my skills and years of experience move you. List for Sale or SOLD with Leesa. I don’t expect success, I prepare for it!

“We all have ability. The difference is how we use it.”

~ Charlotte Whitton

Gladys Fraser MBA PFP AICB Branch Manager Kelowna Main Branch

first woman mayor of a large urban Canadian city (Ottawa)

Darla Aitken PFP Manager, Business and Professional Banking Kelowna Main Branch

Diane Fiest

PFP Branch Manager Lakeshore Centre Branch

Shelley Harborne PFP

Business and Professional Banking Advisor Kelowna and West Kelowna

Maureen Mitchell PFP Branch Manager West Kelowna Branch

Robyn Neff, PFP BA

Branch Manager Rutland Branch

Debbie McDonald Business and Professional Banking Advisor Rutland Branch

Richness is:

Pursuing a passion instead of a job www.scotiabank.com

Royal LePage Kelowna-West Kelowna Direct 250.808.2932 Office 250.768.2161 email: leesafournier@royallepage.ca

™Trademark used under authorization and control of The Bank of Nova Scotia

Z36 5 Women in Business 2014

Dawn Laurienzo I am Dawn Laurienzo and I am Pharmacist / Owner of the Shoppers Drug Mart located at 597 Bernard Avenue in downtown Kelowna. I graduated from Pharmacy at UofA in 1989 which is when I began my career with Shoppers Drug Mart. I started my first business in 2008 as an owner of a store in Calgary where I learned a great deal about retail business and leadership. In 2012 we moved to the Okanagan where there were great business opportunities once again. In March 2012 I took on ownership of the Shoppers Drug Mart store here in Kelowna where it is vibrant during the summer with tourists walking the now revitalized Bernard Avenue. We provide convenient shopping (open 8am - 9pm, Monday to Saturday and 10am - 6pm Sundays and holidays) as well as pharmacy services to many visitors, seniors and downtown patrons. My business delivers health and pharmacy services to numerous facilities in the downtown area and we are very focused on providing treatment for addiction. I consider myself fortunate as a pharmacy retail owner as I am able to continue my practice as a Pharmacist. My pharmacy team provides a range of complimentary services including medication reviews, injections, prescription delivery, counselling, advice and compliance packaging of medications. My goal and focus it to provide the best service for our customers.

597 Bernard Ave Kelowna, BC 250-763-1232

Susan Steen Executive Director

Born in Quebec, Susan has lived in 5 provinces and 11 cities across Canada. Susan began her career as curator/archivist for the Bank of Montreal in Old Montreal and the love of heritage and history has been a constant in her life and her career choices. Susan’s experience has been honed from over 30 years in the non-profit sector. She has worked in key roles for provincial, national and international charities right across Canada. A bit of a gypsy by nature, Susan has been incredibly fortunate to find friends and a meaningful work life in every place she’s lived. An avid history and movie buff, voracious reader and a passion for her role as Executive Director, Susan is surrounded daily by the dedicated staff and volunteers of the Central Okanagan Hospice Association and is grateful for her “magical life”. There are few organizations whose work is as meaningful as the Central Okanagan Hospice Association and Susan is honoured to play a small part in its growth and development.

Central Okanagan Hospice Association #104-1456 St. Paul Street, Kelowna BC 250-763-5511 www.hospicecoha.org

Daria Hanson

Empowering people to know that they know

All of Life comes to me with Ease & Joy & Glory!

ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS®

Why do you want to go into business? Is it to follow your passion, take control of your life and career, achieve influence and success, or become financially independent? How would a business help you achieve that? How do you expect things to look three years down the road? There are many things to consider when creating a vision for your business. Will you be a sole proprietor or will you take on a partner? Will you run your business out of your home or should you consider a retail location? Visioning the details of your business is the best place to get started. To help you structure your thoughts about transitioning to entrepreneurship, the Women’s Enterprise Centre created the Taking the Leap to Entrepreneurship Guide, available in document and audio formats. Once you are confident

that you are ready to get started, your next step is to determine if you can translate your idea into a successful business venture. A good idea could be: • Something within your expertise or that you are passionate about • An invention, new product or service, or solution to an everyday problem • A niche in the market that you can fill • A business related to the work you do already • Turning your interest or hobby into a business

BUYING AN EXISTING BUSINESS

Conducting market research is one of the best ways to determine whether your idea can be translated into a viable business. If it can, you are ready to develop a business plan.

EFFECTIVE BUSINESS PLAN

Completing your business plan will be the first step in

starting your business. The business planning section of our on-line resource library is filled with free, downloadable documents that will help you get started. Writing a business plan takes some work, but it is essential to making your entrepreneurial experience a positive one. A business plan will help you determine: • Is your idea is profitable • How much it will cost to get your business off the ground • What you will potentially earn • And how much you will need to pay yourself and all your business costs It is critical that you brush up on your business skills to prepare for the challenges of running your business. Our convenient business skills training is available to you no matter where you live in BC. Article contributed by the Women’s Enterprise Centre.

Glossary of business terms Capital investments Money used to purchase permanent fixed assets such as machinery, land or buildings. Capital equity contribution The money that you have invested in your business. Cash Flow Forecast An estimate of when (and how much) money will be received and paid out of a business. Cash Receipts Cash your business receives from selling your goods or services. Cost of Goods/Services Sold The direct costs involved to your business in making your products or offering your services. Depreciation A charge to write off the cost of an asset

over its useful life. Gross Profit Margin The difference between revenue and the costs of goods and services sold. Net Income Profit after all business expenses are deducted. Receivables Money that is owed to your business by its customers. Retained Earnings Profits that are retained in your business rather than paid out as dividends. Shareholder’s Equity The net assets which belong to the owner(s) of the business. Term Loan A longer-term loan for equipment or other fixed asset purchases.

Colleen Pfannenschmidt

Life Coaching & Access Consciousness® Facilitator I empower achievement orientated individuals to change all aspects of their lives, from health to relationships to finances. Are you looking for a way to unlock your true potential? Is the Time Now to permanently release the patterns that hold you back from achieving your goals? Testimonial: “Daria is an exceptionally intuitive life, career and financial coach. I required and desired change in my life and received results that far exceeded my expectations. She facilitates you in creating your life through choice and promotes the question rather than the answer. “What else is possible for you and your life that you have not considered?” ~ C.D.

ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS ®

Create a vision for your business idea

CAPITAL NEWS

250-575-3951 dvhan@shaw.ca

dariahanson.accessconsciousness.com

Last year I made a professional move to Benewealth Strategies. Being able to offer insurance products is as important as having the right investments. All investing should start with life insurance. Insurance products are an integral asset to any company, self employed person or family. There are many valuable insurance products available that protect us when hurt, disabled or become critically ill. Life insurance is the most valuable asset you can leave your spouse and children. If you are a businessperson or just prefer a guarantee on your investments, give me a call and we can discuss segregated funds. Segregated funds are creditor protected, bypass probate and have guarantees attached. Call me today for a complimentary consultation.

1658 Commerce Avenue, Suite 203 Kelowna, BC Phone: 778.478.0267 Toll Free: 1.877.474.4434 Fax: 778.478.0512

CAPITAL NEWS

Opening up the world Most people in the Philippines earn $10 a month. Yet, eyeglasses sell for $10 on the black market. Now a woman can see the world again, thanks to Okanagan-donated eyeglasses and Catherine Goheen, the retired founder of Dr. Specs Optical in Kelowna and Penticton. “That’s why it’s so important that glasses travel as personal luggage so they don’t end up on the black market,” said Catharine Goheen, the retired founder of Dr. Specs Optical in Kelowna and Penticton. “So I will pack up four old suitcases and wrap ropes around them to project the image of no value.” In the Philippines, Goheen has worked with Rotary Clubs in Manila to distribute the glasses to the needy in the poorest neighbourhoods in the mega-city. Goheen also carries a backpack full of glasses when she travels to smaller communities, to help people in outlying areas. Goheen led another eyeglass collection drive this past year seeking donations from people in the Okanagan to help people in the Philippines. All kinds of glasses were donate—reading, prescription, non-prescription, sunglasses, bifocals, progressive and distance glasses. As a retired optician with donated glasses, Goheen can’t always get the perfect fit and prescription for the people she is helping in

Third World countries, but she can usually get pretty close. “If we give people food, we help them for one day,” said Goheen. “When we provide a pair of eyeglasses or teach someone to read, we can help them feed their families for life.” Many people in poor countries make their living by doing piece work, using tools, sewing, weaving or embroidering. By the time people hit age 35 to 40, eyesight deteriorates and they are no longer able to do this close up or fine work. Often these people are then unemployable, plummet farther into poverty and force their children to drop out of school, if they are in school in the first place, to do the close up work they are no longer able to do to support the family. And the solution is a cheap and simple pair of reading or prescription glasses. “Donated glasses from the Okanagan have empowered people to continue working and let their children return to school,” said Goheen.“Empowering people to be independent and work is a benefit to their families, communities and countries.” Goheen first did an Okanagan-eyeglasses-to-the-Philippines trip 16 years ago. Since then she’s journeyed numerous times with the same mission to lots of different countries from India and Cuba to Cameroon and Vietnam.

Women in Business 2014 5 Z37

Barbara Smylie Barbara Smylie, President and Owner of ServiceMaster of Okanagan - Janitorial & Commercial is excited to simplify and improve the quality of clients’ lives in Kelowna and Kamloops by offering impeccable, one-of-a kind cleaning services to the businesses in their communities. Barbara has 20 years’ experience in building successful businesses and providing quality customer service. Before opening her own franchised cleaning business she managed the Healthcare Division of ServiceMaster of Calgary and has graduated from the ServiceMaster Clean Academy of Service in Memphis, TN. The techniques and methods learned are invaluable and help to set ServiceMaster Clean franchise businesses apart from the competition. Customers get the personalized attention of a local business combined with the best practices and stability of a Fortune 500 company. Invite ServiceMaster Okanagan to improve your work environment with quality janitorial and carpet & upholstery cleaning.

JANITORIAL SERVICES

CATHARINE GOHEEN with Philippine woman, a recipient of donated eyeglasses.

CONTRIBUTED

KELOWNA

Open the Door to Kelowna Real Estate

Sharon &

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250.300.5460

www.servicemasterokanagan.com • bsmylie@servicemasterokanagan.com

Dr. Rose Backman Your Body Doesn’t Lie Dr. Rose Backman knows the secret to becoming an unstoppable woman. It’s in your body. Whether it’s weight, money or relationship issues, something holds you back. Dr. Rose uses body testing to discover where your belief system needs work. Then helps you shift your unhealthy beliefs. Her own story is one of overcoming the tragic death of her husband to becoming an internationally acclaimed speaker, author and PhD in Clinical Nutrition. Her Backman Emotional Technique is all about moving you from your Comfort Zone into your POWER Zone by shifting unhealthy beliefs. Her compassion and big heart overshadow her loud, passionate and to-the-point approach to helping clients overcome their emotional and physical challenges. For great results, all you need is the desire to let go, claim your power and book your session with Dr. Rose.

“ALWAYS KEEP YOUR POWER, NO MATTER WHAT.” Listen on Q.103.1 every Tues. between 3:15-4:00pm

BACKMAN AND BACKMAN 109 Portview Ave., Kelowna, BC V1Y 1T2 Ph: 250-860-9592 • Fax: 250-860-9587 bbackman@shaw.ca • http://drrosebackman.com

Z38 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Relieving chronic stress from your work life T Catherine Clifford CONTRIBUTOR

The job-search website CareerCast.com released its rankings of the most and least stressful jobs of 2014. The rankings take into account the physical demands

of a job, the environmental conditions, whether a person’s own life is in danger, whether a person’s job requires him or her to take responsibility for the lives of others and the degree of involvement a person has with the public.

Perhaps to no real surprise, the two most stressful jobs are related to the military. Other jobs that topped the stress ranking include firefighter and airline pilot. Overall, it takes a bit more time in the classroom to nail a job in the less stressful cate-

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gory, CareerCast.com notes. The least stressful job is an audiologist, followed by a number of professions geared toward improving appearance—hair stylist, jeweler and seamstress or tailor. If you are looking to revamp your professional life, be sure to take into account your own threshold for and desire of stress on a daily basis. Here are the top 10 most stressful jobs of 2014 (ranked from high to low): 1. Enlisted military personnel 2. Military general 3. Firefighter 4. Airline pilot 5. Event coordinator 6. Public relations executive 7. Senior Corporate executive 8. Newspaper reporter 9. Police officer 10. Taxi driver The top 10 least stressful jobs (ranked low to high): 1. Audiologist 2. Hair stylist 3. Jeweler 4. Tenured university professor 5. Seamstress or tailor 6. Dietitian 7. Medical records technician 8. Librarian 9. Multimedia artist 10. Drill-press operator

As if there aren’t enough threats to your business, the biggest hazard may be one you can’t see—chronic stress. Hiding in plain sight, this toxic saboteur can ruin the best-laid plans with a trip to the hospital emergency room. You may think you’re

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mune system, handling it, increases bad but that’s usucholesterol ally an illuand decreassion, supplied IF SOMETHING es the good y by the adrenDOESN’T FEEL kind. aline released e RIGHT, IT’S Bravado by the stress rePROBABLY NOT. and busyness e sponse, which can keep en- t masks the damGET IT CHECKED trepreneurs in h age to your OUT. denial mode s body by givBrian Curin until the para- p ing you a sense medics arrive. s you’re powerYou’re not ing through it. much good to your business n Brian Curin, 39, thought from six feet under. Keep the he was managing risk well as sirens at bay with these essen- d president of the footwear retial strategies. tailer Flip Flop Shops, which s Pay attention to your has more than 90 locations. t body. Insomnia, heart palYes, there was pressure, pitations, anxiety, bowel is- n but he exercised and ate well. He did feel a little off, though, sues—they’re trying to tell i you something. and had a faint ache of somee See your doctor. thing resembling heartburn. C Make stress-testing as Curin decided to pay his G routine as dental checkups. doctor a visit. Blood work, a Cut stress by reducing resting EKG and a respirad tion test were negative, but a time urgency. Every minute is w stress test and an angiogram not life or death. t turned up a big problem— Identify the story behind t four blocked arteries, one of the stress and reframe it from them at 100 per cent. catastrophic to a new story: p That’s not what Curin ex“Yes, I’ve got 300 emails, but pected at his age. Without I can handle it.” F open-heart surgery, he could Build stress-relief techhave been dead within weeks. niques into your schedule— p “I was extremely lucky,” meditation, progressive relax- a says Curin, whose wake-up ation, exercise, a hobby. call prompted him to start a Set boundaries. Sixteen m campaign across the U.S., hours of work a day is not s The Heart to Sole: Creating a sustainable. Find the “just P Stress-Free America, to lobby enough” point in a given day h for stress-testing at all compa- or project. nies and to support the AmerHire somebody. Doing it C ican Heart Association’s My yourself can cost well more n Heart. My Life. program. than the price of a helping m “If something doesn’t feel hand. t right, it’s probably not. Get it Step back. Brains have c checked out.” to reset every 90 minutes. m Long-term risk-taking and Breaks increase mental functhe demands of wearing mul- tioning and interrupt stress. tiple hats make entrepreneurs Get a life. The best stress easy prey for chronic stress, buffer is to get a life beyond which compromises the imwork.

“ c

Colleen Schellenberg, CTC Travel Consultant

Mona Jansen Travel Consultant

Karen Copp, CTC Manager/ Vice President

Denise Cesselli Travel Consultant

Sun Country Travel is celebrating 29 years in Kelowna this year! We are affiliated with Transat Distribution Canada which gives us awesome buying power. We offer Airmiles on all vacation packages and cruises booked in our office. Our agents are all very experienced, well traveled and can give the personalized service travellers want for the same price as on the internet.

2009D Enterprise Way Kelowna, BC • 250-861-4575

CAPITAL NEWS

Women in Business 2014 5 Z39

Trends poised to change the entrepreneur game If you want to be perfectly on trend in 2014, you might consider launching a Bitcoin-related startup. If you do, make sure you bring on plenty of executive-lady power, don’t even think about taking your startup public, and be sure you have an aggressive, multi-channel social media strategy. Oh, and one more thing: Your company had best be working to save the world in some way. At least that’s what Dell’s entrepreneur-in-residence Ingrid Vanderveldt thinks. Vanderveldt put together a handful of predictions on entrepreneurship for 2014. While some are newer than others, she believes all of them are poised to take off in a big way. Vanderveldt lives and breathes entrepreneurship. In addition to her role at Dell, she is the founding organizer of the Global Leadership & Sustainable Success Forum and the CEO of both VH2 Energy Investments and Green Girl Energy. Vanderveldt also serves on the UN Foundation Global Entrepreneurs Council and has worked with members of Congress crafting entrepreneurship-related legislation. In her spare time, she’s a professional skydiver. Here’s a quick rundown of Vanderveldt’s pick of the six top trends for the coming year. 1) ‘Social media’ means more than just Facebook. There was a time not too long ago when people who talked about social media were really just talking about Facebook. But with mobile phones having become almost genetically attached to our fingertips, the social-media world has grown to encompass Pinterest, Twitter, Snapchat, Google Plus and half a dozen other social media platforms. A recent survey from the Pew Research Center found that more than seven in 10 Internet users older than 18 use at least one social media site and 42 per cent of online adults actually use multiple social media sites. If your company is only leveraging Facebook, you are missing out. 2) Companies are looking beyond profit.

To bring and keep the best talent and customers, you are going to need to be about more than your own bottom line. Companies like Warby Parker and TOMS Shoes are obvious “do good” companies, but even bigger corporations are served by having a bigger mission beyond their bottom line. As Vanderveldt points out, Tesla’s founder and CEO Elon Musk has said that his overarching goal is “to help expedite the move from a mine-and-burn hydrocarbon economy towards a solar electric economy.” 3) The startup world is bigger than the larger urban centres. Don’t discount the middle of the country where many smaller communities, such as Kelowna, have burgeoning startup scenes. And the benefit of launching in some of these lesser known entrepreneurship hubs? Startup costs are generally cheaper and there’s less competition. 4) Better get used to Bitcoin. Cash money is so 1990s. With every other part of our life moving onto a screen in one form or another, our wallets are also becoming a series of 0s and 1s. Digital currencies were once the chatter of tech-heads, but they are increasingly becoming the purview of mainstream retailers. The online platform that allows merchants to accept Bitcoin as a form of payment, BitPay, processed more than $100 million worth of transactions in 2013. 5) Venture carefully into ‘IPO Land.’ While investors may be pushing companies to go public, the mystical allure of having an IPO is becoming increasingly less popular. Answering to stockholders requires you to answer to somebody. That means that your startup immediately becomes less agile and short-term gains become more of a focus. 6) Bring in more ladies. While women have been pushing up against that glass ceiling for years, the pace with which they’ll be taking leadership roles is about to explode. As Vanderveldt points out, a law firm made up exclusively of lady lawyers just opened in Saudi Arabia.

CONTRIBUTED

DELL’S entrepreneur-in-residence Ingrid Vanderveldt.

Theresa, Jeannie, Darlene, Ruth & Rita …just part of The Caring Team

Because it’s hard to face pregnancy challenges and choices alone - we’re here to listen, empower, affirm, inform and support.

201-2622 Pandosy Street

250.763.2112

SHE SAID IT… “Take criticism seriously, but not personally. If there is truth or merit in the criticism, try to learn from it. Otherwise, let it roll right off you.” — Hillary Clinton

M-F 10 am to 4 pm www.ovpcc.com confidential@ovpcc.com

The Wellness Spa

Jennifer “The Boo” Miller Lynn “The Beet” Miller Beet ’N Boo’s Bistro & Catering opened up only 2 short months ago in December 2013 by Mother-Daughter Team Lynn and Jennifer. With 40+ years in the industry and a huge passion for food these ladies are serving up all your favorite Comfort Classic Foods - with a Creative Twist! Opened 6:30 AM - 4:00 PM Monday - Friday - The bistro offers a full breakfast and lunch menus along with daily specials and tempting epicurean delights, guaranteed to create a dining experience that will always excite you. They are also serving up fresh, locally roasted coffee, including all your favorite espresso drinks. The fully-licenced bistro has been renovated and offers a fantastic option to host private parties up to 50 people in the evening and weekends. During the week, they have a private boardroom complete with a whiteboard/screen that seats up to 12 - perfect for those early morning breakfast meetings or working lunches. These ladies are also offering up full catering services - whether a small work luncheon, or large wedding - give them a call for a personalized quote.

Sharon Strang, owner and operator of The Wellness Spa, has been in the health field for over twenty years. Her vision is to support people in taking time for themselves and to educate them on the enormous value e nn lia & Ju of releasing stress. As a mother & business Angela, Sharon owner, she recognizes the need to take care of oneself. The Wellness Spa specializes in facials, massages, & waxing. Over the past 11 years, we have built a reputation of friendly service, tranquil surroundings, and beautiful treatments. We are a convenient oasis for weary travelers here at the Best Western Hotel, but we value our local clientele and offer special packages for you! Guinot is our exclusive European skin care line, for every skin type & condition. It is made from plant botanicals, helping your skin stay young the natural way. We invite you to peruse our website for more information or just take an hour or so and come to our oasis for a mini-vacation! Online booking and online gift certificates available.

For fresh, in house made, house cooked food - go check out these ladies today!

jennifer@beetnboos.com lynn@beetnboos.com

2496A Enterprise Way, Kelowna, BC | 250.868.0010 | beetnboos.com

(at the Best Western Plus Hotel & Suites)

250-860-4985 | 1-866-860-4985 2402 Hwy. 97 N. contact@wellnessspa.ca www.wellnessspa.ca

Z40 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Brenda Lainof Brenda Lainof is a Certified Medical Intuitive Practitioner and incorporates her Certification as a Body Code, Emotion Code, Higher Purpose Practitioner as well as many other modalities. Through a process called muscle testing, physical and emotional blocks are identified. Once identified a process begins that assists the body to self-heal. Brenda works in private sessions with clients throughout the world providing remote healing via Skype or phone; designed specifically for the individual. Receive a FREE Energy Scan. Sign up for the newsletter and book your 10 Minute FREE Energy Scan at www.whisperingenergetic.ca For further information, contact Brenda Lainof at: lainofbrenda49@gmail.com www.facebook.com/intuitivehealer2012 • www.twitter.com/Blainof

Whispering Energetic Healing

lainofbrenda49@gmail.com whisperingenergetic.ca

Lana Belvis is a Licensed Optician and owner of Inspired Eyes Creative Eyewear. Inspired Eyes was founded as a mobile optical service and recently expanded to include a charming new boutique in downtown Kelowna. With an eye for style and an expert understanding of optics, Lana is passionate about helping you to see life more clearly, inspiring you to take a bold step to embrace a new style and ensuring you feel great in your eyewear.

LANA BELVIS Licensed Optician • Rx Eyewear • Sunglasses

Visit us in store and ask for your free lens cleaner and gift card! Visit us on Facebook and like our page to enter our “Win a Free Frame” contest!

• Magnifiers • Ready Readers

@InspiredEyesBC /InspiredEyesBC

be inspired. express yourself. see life. 1560 Pandosy Street, Kelowna 250.862.5900 | www.inspiredeyes.ca Store Hours: Tues-Fri 10-5:30, Sat 10-4

Dena Abrahamse Happy 2014 everyone, let’s make it a great year! We are a Kelowna sign shop producing quality solutions for over 13 years. The Kelowna sign market demands full service capabilities & top quality products at reasonable prices & we have continually been there to fulfill those demands. Access Signs’ impressive reputation is founded on ensuring 100% customer satisfaction. We are very experienced in working in multiple mediums including wood, 3D, metal, plastic, banners & coroplast. We take care of it all... from real estate, property development, business frontage & sandwich boards to magnetics, decals & site signs. We offer in-house large format printing & vinyl cutting for your interior signage & exterior needs including vehicle graphics & more. Access Signs also gives back to the community by sponsoring a variety of sport teams & events. There is only one thing that matters at Access Signs... your business, & our business is to make your business get noticed. Dena welcomes you to come by the shop or visit our website: www.access-signs.com

#2 - 1980 Bredin Road (behind Cloverdale Paint)

Phone 250-860-1728 • Fax: 250-860-1702 Email: access.signs@shaw.ca

Vibrate yourself into a healthier lifestyle Laura Pelletier CONTRIBUTOR

The latest trend in exercising—Whole Body Vibration equipment—is shaking up the exercise world with a new concept. Whole body vibration was invented by the Russian scientist for the cosmonauts, allowing them to retain muscle, blood circulation and body flexibility while in space. Kwikfit4u Canada, the distribution arm for WBV in Canada, says the vibration concept of exercise has grown in popularity over the last decade. It has become a way to stay healthy, fitter, and help with chronic conditions in the privacy of your own home. Some of the most common issues people have related to fitness include weight control, increased bone density, flexibility, balance, mental health, sexual health, strength, mobility, circulation problems, pain from old injuries, rehabilitation, detoxification, incontinence, lack of energy and overcoming disabilities. Research has been done with WBV to show positive results for working with chronic conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. You will notice after using WBV an increase in muscle strength, better posture, toning, youthful appearance, almost pain free, reduction in cellulite, less stress, more flexibility and more energy. WBVs are becoming a more common fixture in fitness gyms, for physio rehab, chiropractic offices, corpor-

CONTRIBUTED

LAURA Pelletier says Whole Body Vibration exercise

equipment can be a fitness alternative for people who don’t have time to work out on a regular basis. ate offices, sports training facilities, yoga studios and seniors’ homes. “The other concern I often hear from people is: ‘I just don’t have the time to exercise…I’m too exhausted.’” The best part of WBV is that it’s only a 10 minute routine each day to help with the concerns already mentioned, as well as being safe and easy to use. In those 10 minutes, you

will burn calories, strengthen, improve circulation, take down inflammation, just about the same as if you did one hour of exercise—and there no need to change into workout clothing. Laura Pelletier is a certified natural health consultant and WBV specialist in Kelowna. 250-769-5552 laura@kwikfit4u www.kwikfit4u.com

Leanne Wilson Marylyn Needham Leanne & Marylyn, Partners in Paradigm Mortgage Corporation, have spent the past 20 years building genuine, lasting relationships with both their investors and mortgage brokers. The strength of Paradigm’s 20 year track record of consistent, positive returns during some of the most troubled and turbulent economic cycles of our time has resulted in Paradigm becoming increasingly respected by investors whose top priority is the preservation of capital and who also value security, return and liquidity. Together, with an industry leading team of professionals, Leanne and Marylyn have shaped Paradigm into a trusted Mortgage Investment Corporation that is a leader in providing alternate lending solutions in all 4 western Canadian Provinces.

210-1980 Cooper Road 250.979.2911 paradigmmortgage.ca

CAPITAL NEWS

Lesser known symptoms associated with anxiety HEALING MINDS

Paul Latimer Pretty much everyone knows by now that many people have difficulty with anxiety. We all have an innate fight or flight response that is activated in stressful or dangerous situations, and some people’s systems seem to be stuck in the on position. Individuals with anxiety disorders experience worry or fear in many situations that normally don’t warrant it and the feelings end up causing significant interruption to daily functioning. So we all know about the emotions implied in anxiety, but there are many less known symptoms and facts about anxiety. First, did you know anxiety doesn’t just involve emotional symptoms, but can include many physical ones as well? Common symptoms of anxiety are irritability, insomnia or hypersomnia, heart palpitations, nausea, headaches and dizziness just to name a few. One of the strangest is people who experience anxiety are more likely to label neutral smells as bad smells.

As anxiety increases, people also become better at differentiating between bad smells. This has to do with activation in areas of the brain associated with emotion as well as the olfactory system. Anxious people are also more likely to have issues with balance. Interestingly, treating balance problems can also help to reduce anxiety. Exercise can help. This may not be a surprise to you —exercise is often good for what ails you. Studies have shown that while resting can help reduce anxiety, exercise not only reduces it in the moment, but seems to have a more lasting effect. This has been shown with as little as 20 minutes of exercise at a time. One more great reason for a regular exercise routine. Parenting style affects anxiety. We know there are strong genetic links to anxiety disorders, but nurture also plays an important role. Parents who are overly critical or emotionally cold are more likely to end up with anxious kids. Anxious people also tend to need more personal space than those without anxiety. Typically, people need between 20 and 40 cm of space around them in order to feel comfortable. Anxious people have a wider margin. While all of these facts are interesting to learn, the bottom line remains that anxiety

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STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT WHILE RESTING CAN HELP REDUCE ANXIETY, EXERCISE NOT ONLY REDUCES IT IN THE MOMENT, BUT SEEMS TO HAVE A MORE LASTING EFFECT.

disorders are very common and can be quite disruptive to a person’s life. Constant worry, physical discomfort, panic attacks, avoidance behaviour and outright fear are not things we need to live with on a daily basis. Anxiety is treatable. Cognitive behaviour therapy can help train the brain to think about things differently and change our reaction to situations or objects causing fear. Medication therapy is also very effective for many people dealing with chronic anxiety. If anxiety is an issue for you, don’t suffer in silence. Speak with your doctor about treatment options that might work for you. Paul Latimer is a psychiatrist and president of Okanagan Clinical Trials. 250-862-8141 dr@okanaganclinicaltrials.com

Women in Business 2014 5 Z41

Cherylann Thomas, CH, t Our Minds Believe What We Tell It! Change your mind, change your life! Cherylann Thomas, CH,t is a Clinical Hypnotherapist registered with the International Medical and Dental Hypnosis Association. She works out of the Family Wellness Centre in West Kelowna and specializes in depression, anxiety, phobias, weight loss, smoking cessation and helping her clients regain their sense of self and confidence. Cherylann uses a number of neuro linguistic programming techniques designed to help you tap into the power of your subconscious mind while at the Delta level of sleep. You are in control at all times as Cherylann guides you to success in reaching your emotional goals or relieving mental blockages that prevent you from being all you can be. Cherylann is also a public speaker and offers Group Presentations and Group Sessions for individuals and organizations wanting to learn more about the power of the mind. Call Cherylann today to begin your journey to self-actualization!

Mind Miracles Hypnotherapy 778-755-4001 www.MindMiraclesHypnotherapy.ca

Donna Bennett Donna loves getting to know her clients’ specific needs and desires, and then uses her first-hand knowledge and passion for travel, to make their trips magical. She has been pampered on cruise ships, experienced the thrill of backpacking around South America, dined in fabulous restaurants, and stayed at numerous all-inclusive resorts. Together with her husband Greg, who has 16 years of experience in the travel industry, they have formed “Travel with Greg and Donna”. This dynamic team has a complementary skill set, perfect to provide you with first class personal service for all your travel needs. Donna would love to have the opportunity to help you with your next dream vacation!

SHE SAID IT… “Do you really want to look back on your life and see how wonderful it could have been had you no been afraid to live it?” — Caroline Myss

Terry Simpson For the past 2-1/2 years Terry Simpson has operated Zed Home (formerly Z Decor), bringing exciting contemporary furnishings, lighting, object d’art and unique design pieces to Kelowna. She carries many great Canadian lines including G.Romano and Martha Sturdy as well as European companies such as Designers Guild, moooi and Kartell. This year promises to bring some big changes - watch for the new store location coming this fall on Lakeshore!!!!

ZED Home 1615 Water Street Kelowna, BC V1Y 9W4 250.860.4371 www.zedhome.ca

1328 Water Street, Kelowna

1 (888) 768-6777 Ext. 303 donna@kvi.travel www.travelwithgd.com

Sheila Forai B.A.Sc., Nutrition, Holistic Nutritionist,

Member of Canadian Dietitian Association Sheila has studied health and holistic nutrition for over 20 years and has an intense passion for preventative health. Sheila studied Nutrition at the University of Guelph where she earned her Science degree. She continued her career working in hospital, private health clinics and also had extensive experience in sales for several fortune 500 healthcare companies. She now operates a nutrition consulting business based in the Okanagan. Sheila has also studied other holisitic modalities like Yoga, Reiki, Yuen Method and Sound Healing. Sheila offers clients individual consultations or complete programs and looks at mind, body, soul connections to help facilitate clients to become self empowered and vibrant. Lifestyle and food issues are addressed and specific goals initiated to move clients to a place of wellness and joy. Sheila recently launched E-WELL virtual nutritionist which is an online service which offers personal service and work place wellness programs for small businesses. Call today for a free 15 minute consultation.

Pure Heart Wellness 778-363-4411

located in the Inner Peace Wellness Centre

4382 Gordon Dr. and Mobile Services

Z42 5 Women in Business 2014

CAPITAL NEWS

Time breaking down discrimination boundaries Sandra Wilkin is the president and CEO of Bradford Construction, one of the largest female-owned firms in New York. After battling discrimination as a woman in a male-dominated industry, she founded the Women Builders Council and co-founded The New Agenda, a coalition of leadership organizations advocating for improved opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses. Wilkin would work hand-in-hand with the New York city council and now retired mayor Michael Bloomberg to pass a local law which expanded opportunities for women and minority-owned businesses regarding city contracting. In interview below, Wilkin talks about her experiences in the business world. Laura Dunn CONTRIBUTOR

How has your life experience made you the leader you are today? About 10 or 15 years ago, I was advised to send a male colleague to a meeting in my place. The discussion was expected to become heated, and it was suggested that others in

attendance would be hesitant to speak their minds for fear of offending my “sensitive ears” with their language because I was a woman. Being told that I couldn’t go somewhere or couldn’t be successful in a male-dominated industry inspired me to work toward breaking the glass ceiling—or concrete ceiling in my case—and to

encourage other women to do the same so that this discrimination ends. How has your previous employment experience aided your position at Bradford Construction? Before I ventured into the construction industry I was a nurse. When I was younger women weren’t always allowed the same opportunities they are today so women who worked were often nurses or teachers. As a nurse I learned about being innovative, taking initiatives, and being sensitive and conscious of others, especially during critical times in people’s lives. The medical facility I was working at was undergoing renovations, and being around the project and help-

Laura Pelletier Laura is the proud new owner of Kwikfit4u Canada Whole Body Vibration (WVB) Equipment. Whole Body Vibration is now the hottest equipment on the market for Health, Wellness and Fitness as research and studies have shown. The best part of the WBV it can be an addition to your home gym, or on its own. A real time saver, 10 minutes per day = 1 hr. exercising for increase in circulation, strengthening, toning, calorie burn, circulation, detoxification, flexibility, mobility etc. The machine is safe for almost everyone and easy to use, even with chronic conditions. There are main Chronic conditions where WBV has helped such as Ms, Md, Lupus, FM, Arthritis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, depression, chronic pain, circulation problems etc. We provide sales at a great price and also packages to try out. For more information call Laura, Certified Natural Health Consultant 250 769-5552. Come and see us at Healthy Living Fair Penticton Mar. 8 and Women’s Fair Mar. 9 at the Capri Hotel in Kelowna.

Try It!

www.kwikfit4u.com www.kwikfit4ugolf.com 250-769-5552

Cathy Bilton Laurie Burns Cathy Bilton is the owner of both the Kelowna (2nd year) and Vernon (5th year) Nurse Next Door franchises. Laurie Burns is Care Designer for the Kelowna location and is a resident of West Kelowna. Laurie has been a Care Designer for the Kelowna location since July 2012! Our commitment is to provide an exceptional customer experience that grows stronger each time a caring connection is made between the client and caregiver. Cathy says that it is not about the bath, but everything that happens along the way! Our people are passionate about caregiving. We match our clients and caregivers, providing consistent, compassionate individualized service with peace of mind to family members. Laurie has been in the health care field for 30 years and Cathy has been in health care for 28 years, we bring a wide range of experience and knowledge to the people we serve. Both Laurie and Cathy are active volunteers in the community; we sit on the boards and participate in both Vernon and Kelowna Alzheimer’s “Walk for Memories”. Laurie is a certified AMM Facilitator and had worked for the B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation for over 14 years. Cathy is an active volunteer in various organizations including FASD Committee, Seniors Action Network, and Community Futures Business Exchange and was a member of a Kelowna Seniors Advocacy committee. “We love what we do and we’re here for you!”

250-450-9750

kelowna@nursenextdoor.com • www.nursenextdoor.com

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WHEN I WAS YOUNGER WOMEN WEREN’T ALWAYS ALLOWED THE SAME OPPORTUNITIES THEY ARE TODAY…

ing the workers piqued my interest and helped me realize that construction was the path for me. How do you maintain a work/life balance? This is incredibly difficult. I am still trying to learn how to effectively balance the various aspects of my life. This is particularly hard in industries such as construction that have long hours and have work going on literally 24hours each day. What have the highlights and challenges been during your tenure at Bradford Construction? The biggest highlight of my job is when I am able to witness a project from beginning to end. I gain an intense satisfaction when I see a building that began as a piece of paper become a completed work, knowing that I was a part of creating that and making it happen. Unfortunately, womenowned businesses in the construction industry continue to be perceived as an exception, not the rule. Along with this come everyday challenges such as changing references to the contractor on a job from “he” to “he or she,” encouraging women to enter engineering fields, increasing the number of women on boards of construction firms, and more. What advice can you offer women who are seeking a career in a male dominated industry like construction? Come on in; don’t be intimidated. Women are very much needed in these industries, and we should not be scared to venture into new territory. Do your research so that you can be knowledgeable and speak with authority, and do not second guess yourself. How have you seen the women involved in the (New York City) Women Builders Council succeed in their careers? These women are truly leading the way in the construction industry with new ideas and innovative projects, transforming their companies to become more accepting and successful. How are you making a difference in New York politics through your responsibilities as a member of Minority and Women Owned Business En-

terprise Team, the Committee on Construction Workforce and Contracting Opportunity, and the Board of Governors of the New York Building Foundation? Through my work on these various teams and boards, I am able to represent women in my field and advocate for increased opportunities for MWBEs in New York on both the state and local levels. This past year I had the privilege of working with the city council and mayor on updating New York City Local Law 129, which outlined opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses regarding city contracts. The new law, Local Law 1-2013, was passed in January and vastly increases contracting prospects for minority and women contractors to have the goal and ability to work on larger government projects. Working with the governor on the Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise Team, we created the first goal of 20 per cent of all state projects to be given to MWBEs, which we continue to aspire to. What do you think is the biggest issue for women in the workplace? I think the biggest issue women face today in the workplace is the notion of Super Woman or Super Mom. The idea of being able to do everything on your own and be in multiple places at once is just not feasible, and women should not be held to these standards.

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ALSO, WOMEN SHOULD NOT FEEL INTIMIDATED OR SECOND GUESS THEMSELVES. THE BIGGEST PRESSURE IN THE WORKPLACE IS WHAT THEY PUT ON THEMSELVES.

Also, women should not feel intimidated or second guess themselves. The biggest pressure in the workplace is what they put on themselves. All women, including myself, need to be reminded sometimes that we have a lot to contribute. What are your thoughts on Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In book and movement? I think Ms. Sandberg definitely knows about advancing women in the technology industry, and her movement to encourage women to lean

in and be part of the conversation has always been my feeling and my thrust. I also think that it is important to recognize that we sometimes need assistance. Not everyone who has the ability also has the access they need to be successful, to be able to do what they want. Without programs to assist women-owned businesses and minority-owned businesses, it can be very difficult, particularly in the construction industry, to get ahead. MWBE programs should be recognized as wonderful and helpful resources around the country to help minority and women-owned businesses get started and provide the assistance necessary to enable these women to “lean in.” How has mentorship made a difference in your professional and personal life? I am a strong believer that everyone should have the gift of a mentor or mentors. Not every mentor has more experience than you do, and sometimes they can even be younger than you, but they offer new perspectives that can sometimes alter your outlook on a situation.

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NOT EVERY MENTOR HAS MORE EXPERIENCE THAN YOU DO…

There is a group of wonderful women in my office who are my mentors on leading a successful work/life balance, showing me how they incorporate outside activities into their lives. They hold each other in such high regard as women in business, and I think this is really what mentorship is about. Which other female leaders do you admire and why? I admire many female leaders, including famous faces such as Hillary Clinton and Eleanor Roosevelt, as well as Jane Chmielinski, the chief operating officer of AECOM, who has tried so hard to make a positive difference in our industry. Her ideas and instincts have truly transformed AECOM into an even better company than it was. What are your hopes for the future of Bradford Construction? My biggest hope for Bradford is that it is here long after I am gone. I hope that the people at Bradford keep moving ahead with our mission, giving women and minorities a chance to succeed in our industry until the fact that Bradford is a woman-owned business becomes a moot point because it’s no longer an exception.

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Your Okanagan. Your News. Globalnews.ca/okanagan

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Women Business in

2014

The 22 nd annual ce le bration of Okanagan wom e n and the ir succe sse s.