Women today by Daily Courier

Woman Today From Today’s Woman, For Today’s Woman

WOMEN TODAY

JANUARY 2017 • PAGE 3

Ferreira also underscores the importance of knowing the industry, especially if it’s a crowded one. Kelowna has no shortage of event planners, which means Impact receives a lot of competition. Ferreira manages the challenge of a competitive industry by making her company unique. In addition to event planning services, Impact also provides marketing and public relations solutions as part of a comprehensive events package. She says that in addition to industry knowledge and time management, entrepreneurs need to continue learning skills in order to stay competitive. Prior to starting her business, Ferreira didn’t have accounting skills – something she had to learn fast. “Learning bookkeeping and budgeting is something I had to learn right away. I met with bookkeepers, I learned online, and I got lots of support through the bookkeeping program that I use. And, of course, I asked for help from people I knew who had those skills.” For those in a highly public sphere like event planning, Ferreira says that having some kind of extracurricular outlet is essential. For her, that took the form of the roller derby, where she competed under the name Moxie Crue and served as the league president. “It was a new sport, and it was a fun way to meet new friends. Plus, when you’re in a roller derby, you get to come up with a persona and be someone else. I spent so much time in the public with my work that I wanted a place where I could meet people that I didn’t know.” Ferreira says that she’s now planning to expand Impact Events and build a portfolio involving events outside the Okanagan.

EVENT PLANNING

Entrepreneurial spirit runs through owner of Impact Events

By MIKE STRAUS Impact Events owner Christina Ferreira loves the freedom that comes with being an entrepreneur, but admits that being your own boss brings a whole new set of challenges with it. Christina Ferreira discovered her love for events management during her 10 years as co-ordinator for the Okanagan Wine Festivals Society. “I love the people aspect as well as the events,” she says. “That’s what led me to start my own company. I always wanted to have my own business, and I wanted to use my knowledge and experience on a variety of projects.” Ferreira’s parents — also entrepreneurs — taught her the value of independence early on, and it’s the freedom of controlling her schedule that keeps her in the business. “I love having the freedom to choose which projects I want to work on,” she says. “I love being able to take time off

when I need to. I’ve built myself a core group of subcontractors that I can outsource things to as necessary.” But Ferreira didn’t always have that freedom. During Impact Events’ early days, she was her sole employee. Unable to take sick days without bringing everything to a halt, and unable to delegate responsibilities, Ferreira quickly learned the importance of time management in staying productive. “The biggest thing that surprised me about being an entrepreneur is how much time it actually takes. When you are your own boss, an 80-hour work week is a normal thing. Time management is my biggest challenge. I still struggle after all these years. I do my best to schedule and prioritize, and it does help.” Ferreira has also found that in the events industry, finding a steady stream of new projects can be difficult. The biggest thing that helped her find projects? Simply getting out into the

community. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have had a lot of time with the festivals, so when I struck out on my own I already had a lot of connections. (But if you don’t have connections) you need to get yourself out there. Get out and volunteer. I’m on several boards and have been since I was 25 years old.” Ferreira’s strategy worked, and Impact has developed a rich events portfolio that includes events like Big White’s 50th anniversary Sweater Ball, the Great Canadian Bacon Chase, and the B.C. Restaurant Hall of Fame. But Ferreira’s favourite event to date is Diner en Blanc. She says that the event fosters a unique sense of camaraderie among strangers that isn’t often seen. “It’s such a magical experience: You have all types of people from all kinds of backgrounds and careers who come together and have a great time. Everybody leaves with new friends.”

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PAGE 4 • JANUARY 2017

WOMEN TODAY

100 WOMEN WHO CARE

In the business of doing good, helping others The process of taking over the organization’s operations was rather simple, Dhatt says, due in part to Rose Sexsmith’s assistance and in part to Dhatt’s marketing experience. “My husband went to his first meeting and “Rose is the sweetest woman ever. She said loved it,” Dhatt says. “And when I found 100 she was willing to do anything it takes to Women Who Care, I decided to join. I contact- make the transition easy. We did the transied Rose Sexsmith to see if I could volunteer tion over December, which is a crazy month. to help out with the website. A lot We met for lunch and she talked of people know about the organiabout everything that she wanted zation, but they don’t know how to achieve and what she wanted to get involved.” us to keep doing. Then she handDhatt volunteered TechFire’s ed the reins over to see where I services to re-brand 100 Women want to take it.” Who Care, and during her initial Dhatt’s background in digital meeting with Sexsmith, she marketing means she was natulearned that Sexsmith was planrally inclined to start working on ning to retire after hiring somethe organization’s online presone to replace her as the execuence. tive director. She quickly established an Says Dhatt: Instagram account for 100 Dhatt “She was in the process of inWomen Who Care, expanded the terviewing women for the position when we organization’s Facebook group, and created a met. She’s done great work, but she’s now at new website where members can nominate the stage of her life where she’s ready to trav- new charities and even donate online. el. She’d heard about me prior to our meetAll of these efforts are designed to make giving, and she knew that I was the person she ing back more convenient. Dhatt says that at wanted to take over. I was so humbled.” 100 Women Who Care, donors can immedi-

TechFire Solutions founder and 100 Women Who Care executive director Neel Dhatt says entrepreneurship gave her the opportunity to start giving back By MIKE STRAUS Neel Dhatt started her entrepreneurial journey out of a desire to pursue her passions, but she quickly found that it also gave her a platform to improve the community. “I’ve gone through a variety of career paths both in university and after graduation, but I realized that everything came back to the core premise of design,” she says. “That’s what I was best at, and that naturally expanded into marketing. “I started TechFire Solutions because I wanted to create jobs for college students while promoting local small businesses.” Dhatt says that it was initially challenging to move her business from the Lower Mainland to Kelowna, but a strong local network gave TechFire the early traction that it needed for growth. Soon after the move, Dhatt’s husband became involved with 100 Men Who Give A Damn, and Dhatt saw that it was a great opportunity to support local organizations.

ately see the benefits their donations have. She says that it’s a great way to give back for people who have very little free time, as the organization requires a time commitment of just 4 hours per year. This convenience is something that Dhatt says is quite popular among small business owners. “Being a small business owner and a new mom, I knew that this was something that would work well with my schedule. We have over 230 women now, and the majority of them have their own businesses.” Dhatt’s vision for 100 Women Who Care is to continue building on Rose Sexsmith’s work and to give members more opportunities to get involved. She’s already planning a series of member events that will take place between formal meetings and allow the organization to give donations to even more causes. More than anything, Dhatt is happy to have the opportunity to grow the organization, and she says she’s grateful to have been welcomed with open arms. “I’m thankful for Rose Sexsmith for giving me the chance to grow this organization, and for the city of Kelowna for welcoming me with open arms.”

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PAGE 6 • JANUARY 2017

WOMEN TODAY

Boudoir: Intimate portraits for women How do you feel about your body? If you said ‘not very good,’ then a boudoir photoshoot is exactly what you need to give yourself a new love and respect for how wonderful you are! A boudoir shoot shows you your feminine beauty from another perspective that you may not have seen before. The truth is, that you are amazingly beautiful and you can be proud of who you are and the magic you have as a feminine woman! Not only will you be empowered with a new sense of confidence and beauty, but if you have a special someone in your life, you will have something sensual to share with them. Boudoir portraits are a boost for woman of all ages, sizes and status who would like to appreciate their God-given sensual side that is often suppressed. No body is perfect, and when we can let go of the idea of perfection and love what we have, the way we are, we will be extremely empowered. Boudoir portraits are not about sex or porn (which degrades women), but are more about women learning to love and accept their bodies, and celebrate themselves beautifully and shamelessly.

DENISE JACQUES

“There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologetically herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty.” — Steve Maraboli

She founded Project Mermaid Okanagan in 2014, which showcases some local clients as mermaids in portraits on Okanagan Beaches to bring awareness to visitors and locals about the threat of invasive mussel species, and other threats to our About our cover photographer: beautiful waters. Bonnie Donovan is a seasoned To learn more: A good photographer knows how to light Donovan Okanagan photographer specializphone: 250-717-1662 and pose you to bring out your best. email: letschat@bonnebelleboudoir.ca Be kind to yourself and treat yourself to an ing in Intimate portraits for women, family portraits, corporate headshots, grad photoweb: bonnebellephotography.ca awesome boudoir experience! bonnebelleboudoir.ca You will treasure your photographs for shoots and ‘Mermaid’ styled photoshoots for girls and women. projectmermaid.ca many years to come.

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PAGE 8 • JANUARY 2017

WOMEN TODAY

CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY

Early detection helping improve survival rates More than 1 in 9 women will develop breast, cervical or ovarian cancer in their lifetime. At the Canadian Cancer Society, we don’t just raise awareness for breast and women’s cancers. We take action to save lives. In the past 20 years, we have invested more than $136 million in life-saving women’s cancer research. Since 1980, we have supported 76 vital breast cancer clinical trials. In the 1980s, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer was 73 per cent and ovarian cancer was 42 per cent. Today, the five-year survival rate is 87 per cent and 44 per cent, respectively.

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Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancerrelated death among women in Canada. By 2030, the number of breast cancer diagnoses is forecasted to increase by over 20 per cent due primarily to the aging and growing population. Advances in early detection and improved treatment are the cornerstone of improved survival rates for breast cancer. When women get regular mammograms, breast tumours can be found when they are very small — on average, the size of an apple seed — and at an earlier stage when it is most treatable. More than 80 per cent of breast cancers occur in women over 50. That’s why it is important that women aged 50 to 74 have a mammogram every two years. Women aged 25 to 69 should have a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer every three years. HPV vaccines prevent infections responsible for at least 70 per cent of cervical cancers. Girls and women between the ages of 9 and 45 should get vaccinated against HPV to help reduce their risk of cervical, vaginal, vulvar and anal cancers. HPV vaccination should be used along with, not instead of, cervical cancer screening. For more information or to speak to one of our cancer information specialists, call 1-888 939 3333. — The Canadian Cancer Society

WOMEN TODAY

JANUARY 2017 • PAGE 9

OKANAGAN COLLEGE

Women in Trades program opening doors to great careers Both Maddison Roukema and Sydney Frame found their way to careers in the skilled trades through a unique program offered by Okanagan College. Their success stories are among more than 900, as strong demand for the Women in Trades Training (WITT) program continues and students experience first-hand the opportunities it provides. A few years ago, Kelowna’s Roukema was considering becoming an electrician but had some doubts. What it would be like to step into the trades, a field traditionally dominated by men? Would she be accepted on the jobsite? What were job prospects like? She found the answers to her questions and more — a new dream — through the Gateway to the Building Trades for Women program. It’s a 12week exploratory program, allowing women to get their hands on the tools, try a number of different trades and then decide which trade is right for them. Moving forward, many women will choose which trade they want to pursue as a career and register for a Trades Foundation program to become job-ready. “I went in with no background in the trades whatsoever,” says Roukema. “It opened my eyes to so many different areas of the trades, and helped me discover the trade I now do for a living and absolutely love.” After completing Gateway, Roukema enrolled in the sheet metal foundation program, where she once again flourished. She graduated last September and landed a job within days with Kelowna-based Aspen Heating & Sheet Metal Ltd. It’s work she loves. And she attributes her confidence on the job to the support she received during Gateway. “The program gave me so many new skills and a belief in myself that I have carried into my career.” Investment by the provincial and federal governments has allowed the College to continue to grow the program – and to be able to provide financial support to help students thrive.

Gateway grads like Roukema can apply for sponsorship that covers full tuition for a Trades Foundation program, textbooks, tools and personal protective equipment. Working with the Industry Training Authority to improve accessibility for women is the key, explains Nancy Darling, the program administrator. “There have been so many success stories,” says Darling. “And it comes down to the value-added supports provided and our connection to industry through our mentorship program. “Mentorship is provided while women participate in training, and throughout that first year of employment. For many of our grads, it’s really valuable to be able to connect with other women working in trades who have gone through the same process and can share experiences they can relate to.” Sydney Frame knew right away she wanted to launch a career in aerospace. She completed the College’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineering – Sydney Frame graduated from the AME-S program at Okanagan College with support from the Women Structures (AME-S) program last fall in Trades Training program and now works for KF Aerospace. with support from the WITT program. Since graduating, she gives back by volunteering her time promoting the program and offering up encouragement for new and potential students. “Receiving sponsorship from WITT reduced my stress immensely,” explains Frame. “It really lessened the burden of going back to school and allowed me to focus on learning and succeeding.” Opportunity knocked for Frame quicker than she ever could have expected. She was offered and accepted a job as an apprentice technician with KF Aerospace immediately upon graduation. “I finished my program on a Friday, and started work on Monday,” said Frame. “I’m proof that there are great opportunities out there, and the Women in Trades program is a great way of seizing those opportunities.” The latest intake of the Gateway program began on Jan. 9 with a full class. Seats are available in new classes starting on Mar. 27 in Kelowna and The WITT program opened Maddison Roukema’s eyes to a career in the sheet metal trade and gave her April 10 in Vernon. More information the confidence to step onto the jobsite. is available at at okanagan.bc.ca/witt.

PAGE 10 • JANUARY 2017

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WOMEN TODAY

ART

Fulfillment in simplicity Local artist Natasha Harvey says setting boundaries, slowing down, helping her lead a happier, healthier life By MIKE STRAUS For Natasha Harvey, the act of “biting off more than you can chew” left her unable to catch her breath — in more ways than one. The artist and educator developed asthma and acid reflux in 2015 as a result of taking on too many responsibilities. “I was trying to do too much,” Harvey says. “I was trying to be the best mom ever, keep my house perfect while renovating, make homemade meals, be a hairdresser, be an artist, be a teacher. I had my own private art school where I was running art camps. (I got sick) and a big part of it was too much stress and not enough sleep.” Harvey says that while her art practice, private art school and hairstyling business were all part-time endeavours, they added up to significantly more than full-time hours. And aside from making her sick, overwork was causing her to miss out on quality time with her children. “I realized that my children are only young for so long. So I quit hairdressing. I’m trying to simplify things, to focus on art and teaching. Simplifying is about sacrificing things you don’t value in favour of things you do value. It’s about prioritizing what you find to be most enriching.” For Harvey, that meant art. The arts have held great influence over Harvey’s life, and she says that she finds it to be emotionally moving and almost magical. Harvey discovered the magic of art when she was five years old. Her English grandmother put a paintbrush in her hand, and she never put it down. Harvey says art is an essential part of her life, and that she loves finding beauty in simplicity. Whether it’s a mountain hike, a camping trip, or a ski day at Big White, Harvey seeks refuge in the quiet splendour of nature. It’s not easy to live a simple life, she says, and Harvey and her family say they need to be vigilant about guarding their time and about setting boundaries with technology. “Our society makes it very challenging to

live a simple life,” she says. “We’re very busy, and technology is a huge part of that. With social media, we’re trying to keep in touch with everyone we’ve ever met. But without it, we’d just be in touch with the people immediately surrounding us.” But beyond putting demands on her time, Harvey says that social media can provide a skewed perspective on the world that hinders personal growth. “Social media creates this sense of competitiveness. You only post about the wonderful things in your life, and that creates a picture of perfection. It’s easy to look at social media and compare yourself, especially if you’re a mom — and that’s not necessarily a good thing.” She says that living a simplified life means adopting a simplicity-oriented state of mind and setting concrete boundaries around one’s thoughts and expectations. Harvey, for instance, has cultivated a simplicity-oriented mindset by giving herself permission to relax. “If I feel like I should g down to the studio and paint for an hour, I won’t force myself to go. Instead I’ll say, ‘I can sit down and read a book to my kids instead.’ It’s allowing myself downtime.” This boundary between Harvey’s work time and family time allows her to experience the best of both without stretching herself too thin. But setting boundaries is just the first step toward a simpler life. Says Harvey: “I think a lot of the time us mothers try to do too much. We need to simplify things - that’s how you find happiness. I’m not saying that women shouldn’t have careers, but if you’re a mom, you definitely need to have boundaries. Time management is essential. And we need to stop being so hard on ourselves.”

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PAGE 12 • JANUARY 2017

WOMEN TODAY

LAKESHORE VEIN & AESTHETICS CLINIC

Do you have varicose veins? If so, it’s time to fix them By DR. JANNA BENTLEY, Medical Director, Lakeshore Vein & Aesthetics Clinic Women often ask “Why me?” when it comes to their varicose veins. These annoyances are not only unappealing to look at, but can cause significant pain and can negatively impact your quality of life. Millions of people are bothered by varicose and spider veins — a condition that affects up to 25 per cent of all women and 18 per cent of all men. The condition is the result of vein reflux disease, a disorder that causes varicose veins (large, grape-like veins that bulge below the skin’s surface) and spider veins (clusters of veins that resemble a spider web). It occurs when the valve on the vein meant to prevent blood from flowing backwards as it travels to the heart malfunctions, allowing blood to pool and enlarge the vein rather than flow freely. Some people are more likely than others to develop varicose veins or spider veins. Risk factors to be aware of include:

H e r e d i t y : If your mother had varicose or spider veins, chances are good you may too. P r o l o n g e d s t a n d i n g : Gravity affects the volume and pressure of blood in the lower limbs. Gender: Women are more likely to develop vein reflux disease, partly as a result of the affect hormones have on vein walls. P r e g n a n c y : An increase in blood pressure during pregnancy can place extra pressure and stress on the walls of the vein. A g e : Tissue loses elasticity as we age, resulting in weakened vein walls and valves. Obesity: A substantial weight gain can increase blood pressure and stress on vein walls. The good news is that you don’t need to live with them. Also, surgical vein removal (aka vein stripping) under general anesthesia is no longer the only treatment option. Popular non-invasive techniques used to reduce/eliminate varicose veins include sclerotherapy, a laser treatment called EndoVenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) and a new option called VenaSeal.

How does sclerotherapy work? Sclerotherapy is the solution for smaller varicose veins: A simple procedure involving injections. Medication is injected into diseased veins with small needles. The medication irritates and destroys the inner lining of the vein so that it can no longer carry blood. The vein then collapses and the body cleans this damaged vessel. By eliminating this failing blood vessel, your circulation actually improves. The many other healthy veins in the leg will take over the job of carrying the blood to the heart. Contrary to popular expectations, skin lasers are typically not the best way to treat smaller spider veins — we use them for treating many other skin issues. Big veins: Scalpels, lasers and glue!? For larger veins, ‘sclero’ becomes less effective. So then in basic terms, it means scalpels, lasers or glue. Compared to surgical stripping, EVLT is clearly the preferred treatment (based on a Canadian study and what I hear from patients).

However, surgical stripping is the only option covered by MSP EVLT is a quick, minimally invasive laser process that leaves no scars, has minimal postoperative discomfort, a quick recovery period and provides almost immediate relief from symptoms. It is performed in our accredited medical facility under local anesthesia and works by using an ultrasound-led laser probe to effectively damage and shrink the walls of the vein so that blood can no longer flow through it. VenaSeal is very similar to EVLT, using a safe ‘medical glue’ to close the incompetent vein. Go to veinskin.com/veins for vein education articles and videos. One of the most satisfying things for us is to get rid of varicose veins… and hear patient say: “Thanks, I can wear shorts again!” Lakeshore Vein & Aesthetics Clinic “Medical excellence. Beautiful results.” 3293 Lakeshore Rd, Kelowna, B.C. Phone: 250-860-9919 Online: www.veinskin.com Email: care@veinskin.com

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JANUARY 2017 • PAGE 13

Doing it all: One woman’s journey from mom to fitness trainer to author Becky Komant-Habib’s friends call her crazy for tackling an infinite array of challenges. She says she’s just well organized. Just call her Supermom. pursue my passion for helping people. It’s really imWhile she has yet to stop a speedportant to me that my kids see that, too – that they uning bullet or outrun a train, Becky derstand that life is about giving and helping people.” Komant-Habib’s near-supernatural Komant-Habib pursued fitness as a means of finding gift for organization has allowed her balance in her life, and eventually, she started entering to continually take on new chalfitness competitions. She says her career in the fitness lenges and stay highly productive. world gave her a unique perspective on the body image “From the minute I get up in the debate – she knows what’s realistic and what’s not. morning, I don’t stop,” she says. “I It’s her passion for fitness that eventually drove her plan my day before I get out of bed. to write a book. My friends call me crazy, but I’m “I kept having all these ideas,” she says. “I wanted to just very well organized. I get bored write a book about health and wellness. But I realized very easily, so I like to keep chalthat everywhere you turn, everyone is writing a welllenging myself and keeping things ness book. I wanted to write something more exciting. fresh. I work better under pressure, So my mind started wandering, and I got this idea for which is why I have to keep busy. a crazy twisted story that pulls in things from the comI’m always working on something.” petition world.” Komant-Habib’s journey to entreKomant-Habib started writing her first novel on her preneur and author started out of a iPhone in the Seattle airport after a chance meeting desire to spend more time with her with Seattle photographer Gary Fong. family. “I train Gary and his wife, and one day I ran into him Simplicity-Photography.ca A former Daily Courier employin the airport in Seattle. I told him about my idea, and Becky Komant-Habib ee, she started a family while workhe looked at me and asked, ‘what are you waiting for?’ ing full time. After having her four children, “It was such a struggle, to leave them all the I had people close to me who were supporting me and telling me to do it. And I just went from Komant-Habib decided that she wanted the time. I always loved fitness, so I dove in and there. It’s proof that if you really want something, it might be hard work, but you can do it.” freedom to spend more time at home with her opened a private training studio in my home. Continued on page 14 kids. That allowed me to stay near my kids but still

Celebrating Women in Trades Congratulations to our Women in Trades Graduates! Okanagan College has one of the largest, most successful Women in Trades Training programs in Canada. Over the past 8 years we’ve introduced more than 900 women to the exciting potential of trades careers, in everything from Pastry Arts to Aircraft Maintenance Engineering. Discover your trade in our 12-week Gateway to the Building Trades for Women program starting soon!

Space is limited so call, text or email today to ﬁnd out more and register Call/text 250-575-6194 Toll Free: 1-877-755-2266, Ext. 4825 Email: wtti@okanagan.bc.ca

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Komant-Habib’s first novel, The Controlled, was published in 2013. The adult suspense thriller follows the adventures of Sarah Ruiz, a Miami woman who struggles to escape a world of blackmail, violence, and domination. Komant-Habib says that the book was written as an inspirational novel designed to urge readers to master their lives. Says Komant-Habib: “The inspiration was my desire to help people. I wanted to show people that no matter what they’ve been through, they can still move forward. So many people get knocked down again and again, and I wanted to give people a little escape — something they can read and think, ‘Wow! She did it! I can do it, too!’ I wanted to dig deep and show people that they can get

WOMEN TODAY

through any situation.” Komant-Habib finished the sequel to The Controlled in January 2016, and was planning to release it when her son was diagnosed with cancer just after his 16th birthday. “I put my life on hold for his treatment. It was a tough haul. He was diagnosed on a Friday, and the following Monday we were in the children’s hospital. He did 6 months of chemotherapy. Right before his final test we went on a trip to Disneyland because we weren’t sure what news we were going to get.” In August 2016, Komant-Habib’s son tested negative for cancer. “He’s come so far, and he’s so much healthier now. He was stronger than anyone through that – I’ve learned a lot from him. Seeing how courageous and positive he was . . . that was amazing. He’s graduating this year.” Komant-Habib says that her new novel, Game-On, will be released in 2017.

KELOWNA WOMEN’S SHELTER

Counselling sessions helped turned woman’s life around

www.fashionaddition14plus.com

Hair stylist Colleen Woelders arrived in Kelowna on a bus 17 years ago with a dislocated and broken shoulder and her eight-month-old son. She was exhausted and terrified, having finally gathered the courage to leave her partner after another violent attack. In the following weeks, Colleen cried a lot of tears, attended countless counselling sessions and started to realize she didn’t have to protect her abuser anymore. “I was so brainwashed, fearful, tired and beaten down,” she said. “The counsellors at the shelter were so amazing, and it was powerful to go from being so controlled and dependent on him to becoming a stronger and more independent woman.” One day during her stay, Colleen saw a job posting for a hairdresser. She bravely walked in and applied for the job. Today, she owns and operates Kelowna Hair Design. She gives back by training high school students, offering jobs to special-needs people and providing free hair appointments to shelter clients.

She also employs five people. “I want women who are in this situation to know if they can face their fears and gather the courage to reach out for help, there is a better, brighter, happier future ahead, and life can be wonderful.”

WOMEN TODAY

JANUARY 2017 • PAGE 15

FASHION FOUNDATIONS

Boost your torso and confidence: Get properly fitted Fifteen minutes in a Fashion Foundations change room could give you a whole new silhouette! I know the thought of undressing in front of a stranger seems like a potentially uncomfortable scenario, I mean, it’s been decades since someone else was required to get me dressed, but in this case, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that this feeling of apprehension was quite fleeting. I was immediately comfortable walking into Fashion Foundations. It was there I met Angie and never once felt as though our arrangement was anything but professional, yet I still felt like she was a friend helping me, not a stranger. Since then, I have had the pleasure of working with each staff member individually and now, it feels like a home away from home. This wasn’t an accident or luck. For owner, Susan Wort, selecting the right team of professionals is of utmost importance. “We work cohesively together as a team and strive to create an environment where women will feel comfortable and enthusiastic about getting a fitting for the first time. Our staff know how to choose the best style and size, as it changes with each customer.” And for this customer, they shattered my perceptions on what size I was and held on to for over 30 years. I was way off. Yes, I too had been wearing the wrong bra from the first time I wore one during adolescence. I never mastered the art of sizing (backs vs cups) or the importance of wearing the right undergarments. I spent years bouncing unnecessarily, being uncomfortable and looking larger than I had to. My “girls” did in fact deserve a lift and, by doing so, the rewards kept coming. All the clothes I wore on top of the lingerie, started to fit better. And believe it or not, my confidence noted a positive boost, too. There are a few signs that you too, could be wearing the wrong bra. 1. Are your straps falling down all the time? Perhaps the size or style you wear isn’t right for your body. 2. Is your bra riding up your back? Perhaps the band is too loose. 3. Do you know the difference between too loose, too tight or just right, around the rib cage? Don’t worry, there is an art to that too. 4. Does underwire scare you? The purpose behind underwire is to give you the gift of superior shape and lift. The correct size should not produce nasty pinch-

ing, poking and stabbing many woman complain about. Underwire is there to give your bra the added strength it needs to do its job. A lot of women self-diagnose underwire allergies when, in fact, it is often just the fit of the bra causing chaffing. If it is still your preference to avoid underwire all together, there are still several options for you to consider. 5. Neck and shoulder pain? If you are heavy chested, there is a good chance you aren’t getting enough support. The right bra could alleviate this nagging discomfort. 6. How long have you been wearing the same stretched out nasty bra? Because, well, you know why. It sounds like time to treat yourself to the Fashion Foundations experience. The power of the properly fitting bra comes from a few facts that aim to please. By lifting the bust, you are elongating your torso, which gives the look of instantly shedding 10 pounds. Hello! Thanks, bra! Many woman now realize that with the right bra, they are not required to squeeze their bodies into tight, hot shapewear to look their best in that special dress.

Proper lift means creating air flow as well. If you are the type of lady that goes out of her way to sweat, a quality sports bra is important. Fashion Foundations has an extensive collection of sports bras that are second to none, in every size from AA to K, with 28 to 48 backs to ensure a quality fit. Focus on your exercise; leave the bouncing to your legs. Going from being the woman who wore the wrong sized bra for years and had no idea what kind of an impact wearing the right size would make, I am now transformed into a believer that this is a decision you will never regret. I am someone who truly appreciates that the right bra and panties contribute greatly not just to my day to day comfort, but also to my day to day confidence. When your undergarments make you feel better, look better and feel more comfortable, there is no time like the present to wander

over to Fashion Foundations and meet Susan and her team of bra fitting geniuses. Why? Because you deserve it. Fashion Foundations: 1385 Ellis Street, Kelowna. 250-763-1473 or 1-866-763-1473 Online: fashionfoundations.ca

PAGE 16 • JANUARY 2017

WOMEN TODAY

Passion First: Creating a career that you love without sacrificing anything After her ‘safe’ job failed her, acclaimed photographer Nikki Harrison was forced to turn her passion into a career. Now, she says that decision has allowed her to live the life that she’s always wanted. By MIKE STRAUS Nikki Harrison learned the importance of following one’s passion the hard way. A lifelong artist, Harrison first discovered photography while building her career in finance, and, after learning of the creativity possible with tools like Photoshop, she was hooked. But it wasn’t until the financial crisis of 2008 when Harrison started to pursue photography as a career. “I was running my own mortgage company when the financial crisis hit,” she says. “I suddenly had a lot of time on my hands, and that’s when I picked up a camera.” But Harrison wasn’t content to take portraits or do corporate work. Her new photography business was an opportunity for a rebirth. Harrison used her business experience to brand herself as a photographer, focusing on what sets her apart from others in the industry. “I could’ve been a wedding photographer, but instead I chose to do what I wanted to do. I’m more of an artist. I strive to capture the romanticism, femininity, and strength of women through modern imagery.” Harrison’s photography practice is steeped in a desire to showcase the strength and sensuality of women in a way that doesn’t sexualize them. She says that her work is designed to stand out because it speaks to her aesthetics. “The fact remains that, nowadays, anyone with a camera is a photographer. The challenge is in overcoming that stereotype. I took the same approach to photography that I did with my mortgage business – what makes me different, what makes me better? I chose to focus more on what I wanted to do.” Harrison’s bet on her own creativity paid off, and she was recently named one of the world’s top 10 portrait photographers at the World Photographic Cup in San Antonio, Texas. The top three finalists, yet to be announced, will receive medals at a ceremony in Japan later this year. Harrison is the first Canadian to be named in the WPC top 10 portrait photographers since the WPC’s inception in 2013. She credits her success to her faith in her own ability. “Following your passion means doing something for a rea-

son beyond just money. Photography, for me, isn’t just about money. I had to do something that makes my soul sing. I decided to cut out all the noise around me and stop listening to everyone else’s opinions. Everyone has an opinion, but it’s only by following what you want to do that you’ll ever be truly good at anything.” In the photography business, managing others’ opinions is essential. Harrison says the key to success in the industry is to know how to match one’s own artistic style with what clients expect. “Everybody tries to get you to do things their way. It’s important to build a portfolio that depicts exactly what your style is, and you have to be very clear about what you will and won’t do.” Harrison says that a strong portfolio and well-defined processes tell clients what to expect. She says that she’s heard the common refrain that following your passion takes sacrifice — and she dismisses it out of hand. “I didn’t sacrifice anything, and that’s because I’m following my passion. It’s the people who don’t follow their passions who are making sacrifices.” In addition to her work as a photographer, Harrison owns Chasing Light, a business that sells tools and workshops to aspiring photographers. She started the business after becoming more known around the globe, when several photographers started coming to her and asking her how she created her trademark style. Harrison’s next major project will be a Chasing Light workshop in Tuscany in May. Harrison and her photography mentor Jeff Duchowski will guide students through the essentials of landscape photography and creative portraiture. For Harrison, success is the product of hard work and faith in her abilities. “I think women have to realize that they’re a lot smarter than most people probably give them credit for. When you’re true to yourself, everything else comes together.”

Nikki Harrison

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Absolutely! If you love boots and love saving money right now at Cadence Shoes we have our entire inventory of boots on sale and up to 50% off. Take advantage of the great savings and come in and check us out. We still have a great selection of Blundstone, Ecco, Blondo, Mephisto, Keen, El Naturalista, Art, Gerry Weber and many more.

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Our store is still very full of imported men’s and woman’s fashions and for a limited time a large selection is discounted up to 70% off. While we do focus on clearing out 2016 fall/winter stock to make room for our new Spring arrivals, there are so many unique and beautiful items left to choose from. This is a season of savings, but if you are interested in one of our new arrivals? Mention this ad to receive 10% off your first originally priced item of 2017!

from the inside...literally he last few years of my 20 years in the mainstream beauty industry I struggled with how it was not evolving to meet conscious customers and our planets needs. More importantly, it simply wasn’t acknowledging that there was so much more to beauty and healthy skin than smoothing on some cream or some makeup. Beauty is holistic. This isn’t a concept, it is the natural order of things. Our beauty takes form as we support our well being by mindfully nourishing ourselves. Choosing to feed our whole self through good food, positive dialogue and beauty rituals is how we rediscover the beauty that lies waiting in all of us.

I realized that a safe space needed to be created for people to shop for clean, quality products and to receive the professional support needed to find beauty without compromise. Products that honor our right to be toxin free, have zero tolerance of animal testing or human exploitation and ensure we make sustainable choices for our precious resources.

Nikki Hunter, Owner Green Vanity

Transitioning to holistic beauty consultations meant asking questions that not so long ago were considered taboo. This information helps direct professionals on how to better facilitate a path to healthy digestion, lifestyle and in turn, healthier skin. Much of this was out of my depth. Clients needed real support with digestion and nutrition. My expertise is skin. I needed a professional. With the support of the internet I discovered Raina Lutz. An award-winning holistic nutritionist with a private practice who’d spent two years on the faculty at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition and master fermenter of Experience Kombucha. Raina quickly opened my eyes to a whole world of amazing scientific discoveries that would forever change how I help my clients. Most of us have been hearing more and more about how gut bacteria impacts so many aspects of our health. These discoveries uncovered a new way to support skin health. Through our gut! One of the best ways to support our gut health is eating living foods that contain healthy bacteria: probiotics. These can be found in raw, traditionally-prepared fermented foods. Since we made the move to packaged and processed foods our guts (and our health) have been suffering. Long ago, preparing probiotic-filled and fresh foods was the norm - for the last few decades it hasn’t been. We are working to reverse that and show folks how to get these amazing foods back into their kitchens.

We decided to offer 2 solutions, 1. Create a fermented beverage that embraces both the need for probiotics and rich antioxidant to support glowing skin. This delicious idea was the inspiration for our exclusive hybrid tonic Okanagan Beauty Berry Booch Raina Lutz, Holistic Nutritionist Berry Kombucha

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2. Workshops for people to learn the tradition of fermentation so they can create living food in their own home. We can truly support our clients as they discover beauty from the inside out. Written by Nikki Hunter, Owner Green Vanity

250.801.6846 • mygreenvanity@gmail.com 1492 St. Paul Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6P1

WOMEN TODAY

JANUARY 2017 • PAGE 19

INTERIOR HEALTH

Osteoporosis: The silent thief When x-rays showed that Dorothy Evans had osteoporosis, she wasn’t at all surprised. The 72-year-old had gone to her doctor about a stabbing pain in her groin. While she hadn’t connected the groin pain with bone loss in her hip, she was not surprised by the diagnosis. “My doctor said I was bone-on-bone in my hip and both knees,” she recalls. “But I had known I had osteo. Everyone in my family has it. I have six brothers and sisters who have it.” Five years and three surgeries later, Dorothy is lucky — no broken bones. “Touch wood,” she says. Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to thin, brittle bones that have little holes in them, like a sponge. It is sometimes called ‘the silent thief’ because bone loss occurs without symptoms. For many people, the diagnosis of osteoporosis occurs only after a broken bone - and a broken bone can lead to hospitalization and disability. At least one in three women and one in five men will fracture a bone because of osteoporosis. It’s more common than heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined. In fact, osteoporosis causes more than 80 per cent of all fractures in people over the age of 50.

As Dorothy and her six siblings can attest, osteoporosis tends to run in families. Another risk factor is age: Women over 65 are the highest risk group. After menopause, the body makes less estrogen, a hormone that protects against bone loss. Being active and participating in plenty of weight-bearing exercise is one way to reduce the risk of fractures. Dorothy is a regular participant in one of Kelowna’s Osteofit classes, a specialized seniors exercise class available in the community. Not smoking and limiting alcohol further reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Eating a diet rich in calcium can also help develop strong bones. Foods that are high in calcium include dairy, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. Vegetables like broccoli, kale, and Chinese cabbage have calcium. The soft edible bones in canned sardines and canned salmon are a source of calcium. Foods with added (fortified) calcium include some cereals, juices, soy drinks, and tofu. While vitamin D is also vital for bone health, there are few food sources of vitamin D. In fact, it is impossible for adults to get sufficient vitamin D from diet alone, no matter how good their nutrition is. Osteoporosis Canada recommends vitamin D supplements for all Canadian adults year round.

Visit Osteoporosis Canada by going online to osteoporosis.ca for age-specific recommendations regarding supplements. Osteoporosis Canada also has an online calculator to measure whether you are getting enough calcium through your diet. For more information about how the food you eat can impact your bones, and for advice about supplements, call HealthLink at 8-1-1 to speak to a Registered Dietitian. Finally, there are various drug treatments available for osteoporosis. Speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your bone health. Preventing falls: Falls can occur in any age group. Reduce the risk of falling by: Minimizing clutter inside your home, especially on the floors.

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Lori Samuels Lori Samuels, a Kelowna - based Financial Advisor with Raymond James since 2005, has over 20 years experience in the investment industry. Lori is dedicated to delivering wealth management advice to clients, particularly women. Her knowledge, depth of experience and her strong interpersonal skills are significant assets when helping clients determine and achieve their goals. Lori holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Calgary and has successfully completed several courses through the Canadian Securities Institute. She now holds the Chartered Investment Manager CIM® designation and her expertise and professionalism earned her the coveted Fellow of CSI, FCSI®, which is considered the industry’s highest award of distinction, and recognizes leading professionals for their outstanding educational dedication, experience and record of achievement. Lori has volunteered with many organizations over the years and currently volunteers her time with the BCSPCA.

Johnson Legacy Wealth Management 500-1726 Dolphin Ave. Kelowna, BC

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Making sure all outdoor pathways and stairs are well lit and free of ice, snow and leaves. Avoiding ladders or step stools. Move things down to where you can reach them and/or ask a neighbour, family member or friend for assistance. Using handrails and removing your reading glasses when going up and down stairs. Wearing comfortable low-heeled shoes that provide good support. Eating healthy foods and drinking lots of water. Poor nutrition and dehydration can cause dizziness. Avoiding rushing and multi-tasking. Be more mindful of where you put your feet and stay alert to your surroundings when you are walking.

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13 Things You Can Confidently Toss From Your Closet (Because They’re Never Coming Back) If you have even a tiny bit of hoarder in you, you likely find it really hard to part with clothes. Some reasons are legit, and are bound up in the fears and insecurities about what it means to give up something that you used to identify so strongly with. Other reasons are just crazy, because, no — pinstriped fedoras might have had a time and place in our collective histories (Kevin Federline — whaddup), but some things are really, never going to be coming back. Of course, for those of you for whom some of these items are still integral to your wardrobe, we salute you (after all, there’s nothing more stylish than a woman who loves, and owns, her own style). But for the rest of you, we’re about to make things really, really. We ID’d 13 items that almost all of us probably own, but most haven’t worn in ages, and will not want to wear again — donate these space wasters, reclaim your closet, and rest happy knowing that you couldn’t accidentally dress like an extra on Crossroads, even if you tried. Ah No! I’m Being Whisked Away To The Clurb Dresses You are not going on a surprise trip to Vegas anytime soon. And if you are, please do not wear this dress. It’s not about showing too much skin, or showing off your body. It’s that these dresses are over. Kim Kardashian stopped wearing them, it’s time you did too. Denim Leggings To clarify, we are not talking about jeggings, which have gotten more jeans-like in look and leggings-like in feel over recent years. No — we’re talking about those stretchy, elasticwaisted, pocketless monstrosities that have all the worst parts of jeans and leggings, in one unflattering garment. The Ultra Low-Waist There was a time in history when sitting down was instinctually predicated by tugging your pants up to make sure your crack (or whale tail) was showing. It took you 10 years to unlearn that habit. Do not fall down that path again. “Interview” Pants Someone convinced you that you needed to have a “business professional” look before interviewing for your first jobs, and you spent too much money on a pair of pants that made you look like a distant relative of Gumby. It’s time to let those go.

Stingy-Brim Fedoras Classic fedoras will always be in style. But these — with the wimpy brim, the faux-professional chalkstriping, and (God forbid) contrastcolor band — is something only Kevin Federline’s mother would love. Counterfeit Handbags Not only are you not fooling anyone, you’re also contributing to a whole industry of crime, human trafficking, and child labor. Frump Pumps With the round toe, tapered heel, and hidden platform, these pumps were supposed to be the engineeredfor-excellence version of the basic single-sole heel. Except, no. Sweats You Don’t Feel Cute In With all the fantastic loungewear, athleisure, and flattering fleece garments out there, it’s easier than ever to really love how you look in sweats. If your pants make you want to hide behind the door when you retrieve your Seamless order, it’s time to get rid of them. Peep-Toe Cork Wedges No. Tiered Prairie Skirts Traditionally worn with platform flip-flops, a belly-button ring, and bleached highlights, tiered prairie

skirts were about as boho as boxed wine. Stretchy, Shrunken Jean Jackets With all the wonderful, goodlooking, high-quality, made-to-last jean jackets you can buy in thrift stores for pennies, there’s no reason to ever own a cheap jean jacket that’ll stretch out and rip before the season’s over. That said, there’s also no reason to keep your stretched-out, ripped jean you destroyed years ago. Limp Infinity Scarves There are so many interesting ways to wrap an infinity scarf around your neck, so skip out on the lazy, pre-made versions A normal scarf has much more surface area that’ll actually keep you warm.etch out and rip before the season’s over. Touristy Logo Gear We all have a random drawer stockpiled with hoodies and tees boldly displaying city names in bizarre, often neon, colors. Fortunately, there are so many better items to take home as a trinket or souvenir from a memorable trip. Unless you’re schlepping it around the house, we highly doubt any of these are a part of your daily wardrobe. - Refinery29.com

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WOMEN TODAY

WINTER 2017 • PAGE 21

Restyled KGH mammo room features new equipment The mammography room at Kelowna General Hospital is not your typical hospital setting. The recently renovated room includes tall ceilings and an open space intended to create a calming atmosphere. A beautiful swooping art sculpture hangs from the ceiling with positive messaging written in cursive font on the walls. Two digital TVs display beautiful photographs and a photo collage hangs on one wall displaying the imaging department’s staff members’ pets. The hospital made it a priority not only to upgrade the equipment in the unit but to do their best to create a calming environment for patients. Besides the digital diagnostic imaging unit, the space looks more like it belongs to a princess in a faraway castle than it does in a local hospital. The renovations and new digital imaging equipment cost roughly $800,000 with funding provided from the Screening Mammography Program of B.C. The KGH mammography unit sees about 80 to 100 women tested each month, and on average one man. The unit was completed this past October.

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Her Road to Recovery... On a bright and sunny July morning Shelley Pacholok and her cycling companion stopped to discuss their route before continuing down a winding stretch of road. It would be the last thing Shelley remembered until two weeks later when she awoke to learn she had been hit by a truck.

Shelley participating in the 2011 Kelowna Apple Triathlon, two years before her accident

Then came the news from the neurosurgeon: her plans would have to change. Shelley broke down. She was a sociology professor at UBCO who regularly clocked 60 hour work weeks and the brain injury Shelley sustained would prove career-ending.

begun researching and writing about the experience of having a brain injury in hopes that she will someday publish a book that will â&#x20AC;&#x153;get brain injury on the radarâ&#x20AC;?. The numbers are staggering. Someone in Canada sustains a brain injury every three minutes, and brain injury is the largest cause of death and disability under the age of 44, yet it is considered a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;silent epidemicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; largely due to lack of awareness.

Three and half years later, tears still fill Shelleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes when she talks about the loss of her professional life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This has been the hardest part, because it was just such a big part of who I wasâ&#x20AC;Śwhen you leave that behind you, then you have to craft a new identity for yourself.â&#x20AC;? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sees struggle that people with acquired brain Shelley BrainTrust Canada injury know well. as instrumental in â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a complete 360 from being a connecting those successful academic and financially with brain injury stable to losing a career and all the with programs, implications that go with thatâ&#x20AC;Śbrain resources, and injury nearly took me down.â&#x20AC;? education that help Accepting her new life has been a slow them navigate their new reality. Attending and emotional process that Shelley the peer support group there has also admits is not yet complete. Frustrated given her a safe space to process her by the ongoing effects of debilitating experience without judgment and to talk fatigue, slower processing time, and with others whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lived her experience. vertigo, Shelley has been forced to shift Composed and articulate, Shelleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s her perception of what it means to be voice breaks again. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the life I â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;productiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. imaginedâ&#x20AC;ŚIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give anything for my old

Shelleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s husband visited her in the hospital several times a day, and each time she asked him why she was there. When she began to remember, panic set in. A dedicated professional, she worried about getting out of the hospital in time to prepare for two international While her pace is now different, Shelley brain back, but I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be is still an academic at heart. She has okay.â&#x20AC;? conferences she planned to attend.

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