In Focus | Christina Unger

Meet Christina! Christina was born and raised in Kelowna! She enjoys hiking and taking in all the activities Kelowna has to offer!


Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I am Kelowna born and raised! So, I’ve been here for 20 years.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My partner, Gary. He is my biggest supporter and my best friend. He gets to hear all my crazy ideas and makes sure that they aren’t too crazy.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Burger Baron. Who doesn’t love a good burger, and they make the best.

Describe yourself in one word.
Determined.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I’d probably go to Lake Louise. It is my favourite place and I love the hiking trails around there and it's absolutely beautiful. I’d really love to stay in the Château Lake Louise one day soon.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love being outside and moving so probably hiking but I also love a good beach day in the summer.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
There are so many embarrassing things that happen to me, but I think one of my best moments was in High School Concert Band at OKM. I fell off the drum set in the middle of a song and took the whole kit down with me. My teacher wasn’t impressed.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
There are many small things that inspire me everyday. From my peers at the university who are starting on ground breaking research, to my athletes who conquer fears every practice to become better divers, to the individuals who don’t have much but still manage to stay happy and share that happiness with others.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I am still kind of a child so the memory is pretty recent lol. I went on a trip to Lake Louise with my parents and it was a great chance to spend time with them and see the beauty that the lake offers. We made some super fun memories like my mom riding down the gondola and being petrified (I have a hilarious video of it but she says I am not allowed to share it.)

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Unfortunately, I don’t get to do as much volunteering as I would like to since I am a Full-Time Student and Coach. But I have plans to help out at the Food Bank this Winter Break. I do always make an effort to help out the homeless individuals I meet throughout the city by either donations or bringing them a sandwich.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Everyone’s view and actions on climate change. I feel like it is finally getting the attention it deserves but some do not realize the change that needs to happen now if we want to keep our beautiful Earth.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I would go to TWP fitness and spend some time with a barbell and good music.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I’d like to see more social support programs for the less fortunate in our community. No one wants to be in the position where they cannot support themselves so we as a whole need to come together and help them get back on their feet. Let’s empower them!

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Kelowna is great because of the diversity in activities and how many small businesses/non-profits we have who are doing awesome things for our community.

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Get my PhD
- Drive around a round-a-bout multiple times in a row – I know, super random
- Go skydiving

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
One time when I was on a trip in the Czech Republic with my mom and grandmother, I was chased by a peacock because I got too close to it.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook – Christina Unger and Instagram – christina_unger

What is the name of your business/organization?
Kelowna Springboard Diving Club – KSDC for short

Why did you get into/start this business?
I participated in the sport as an athlete for many years but due to an injury I couldn’t continue. I then switched to coaching and found it immensely rewarding. After 5 years of dedicated coaching, I was offered the position of Head Coach.

What is the goal of your business?
To have everyone experience the excitement, challenges, and fun of springboard diving.

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
My biggest struggle is probably prioritizing my time. I get super passionate about tasks that are not always the most important on my to do list.

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would keep things the same. The struggles I have had made me the hard worker I am today and gave me experiences that have proved very valuable.

What do you always find yourself saying?
“That’s what it comes down to.”

Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Remember to stop and smell the roses.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Honestly? My mom. I don’t get to spend a lot of time with her since I am always running around. She is always there for me and gives the best advice. She also laughs at my jokes which is important because I think I am really funny.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
There are so many awesome businesses in Kelowna and by shopping locally we are supporting the community economy and the members within. It is also more environmentally friendly.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being the first coach for KSDC to bring athletes to Novice Nationals.

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
To the wonderful coaching and administrative team I work with for KSDC. They have helped us grow our club bigger and better every year. Also, to Kailee Kristoff at my gym for always listening to my stories in the morning and making some killer workouts.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Cody McAllister

We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.

In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!