In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Gabrielle Sawatzky.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I am from a small town in Manitoba called Glenboro. I have been in Kelowna since April!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Too many to count, but I love spending time with my boyfriend, my family, friends, coworkers... I could go on!
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Anywhere tropical! I love exploring new places and I love warm weather!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I am really new to Kelowna so I am always looking for new places to go! I do love the Curious Cafe as well as the Bike Shop!
What is your favourite activity?
I really enjoy playing my guitar and singing. I also am a makeup fanatic!
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
100% PIZZA
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I have been embarrassed one too many times, but one time in particular. I was running to the bus to get to the back seat. I was sprinting and went to jump over a fence but unfortunately my foot caught and I fell face first onto pavement in front of everyone on the bus.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
My grandpa being an artist. It opened a door for me as now I can have a career that is artistic and fun!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favorite childhood memory is when I had art lessons with my grandpa. We would go to his art studio once a week and made sculptures, drawings, paintings, and so on.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am always helping others whether it's small things or big. Currently I am volunteering as a youth leader at my church. In the past I have volunteered at food banks, care homes, shelters, and so on.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That everyone is positive. Positivity is such an important thing in our everyday lives!
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love playing sports with the community or hanging out at the beach and exploring
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
The beach or Knox Mountain.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see more support for our downtown homeless folks. I feel as there are many people who are struggling and I believe that we can help!
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
I love the people here. Everyone is so genuine, kind and outgoing. Out of all the towns I have lived in, Kelowna is definitely my favourite!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
My three things would be to go skydiving, ride the biggest roller coaster in the world, and make a big impact on someone's life.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I honestly never have bad days which sounds crazy but it's true!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Usually with Instagram and Facebook.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Pomme Salon.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have always been passionate in the beauty industry. My plan was to go to school for hairdressing but then I was hired as a hairdressing assistant and makeup artist. I will be doing an apprentice program instead with my boss!
What is the goal of your business?
To make everyone feel welcomed, happy, and beautiful.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Overthinking definitely! I tend to do that a lot.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn't change a thing
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Okay sounds good, even if I know its not good.'
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Probably my grandpa! I don't get to see him very often and he is such an inspiration to me.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Local shops need support from the community! Without the community and shoppers, they would go out of business. Also local shops are SO unique!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Probably what I have learned in this past year. I have gone through so much, good and bad. It has made me such a strong person and who I am today. I also learn so much at my job and am so excited to keep learning!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Nicole Pidhernym my boss. She inspires me so much and I look up to her. She is such an amazing person and is amazing at her job. I wouldn't be here without her!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Sierra Palamar.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Stay tuned! I am shaving my head on October 27th for breast cancer awareness!! This will be taking place at Pomme Salon at 6:00 pm on October 27th. Anyone is welcome to come and support. I am also fundraising for cancer research. My goal is $2000.00. The link is below! Thank you for your support! Fundraiser by Gabrielle-Kayla Sawatzky: Breast Cancer Awareness. You can support be HERE.
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. Thank you, Kelowna.
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