Meet Jamie! Jamie is originally from Winnipeg and is new to the Okanagan. She enjoys going to the beach or anywhere near the water, finding local goodies at the farmers' market, and spending some quality time with her family.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Winnipeg, I moved here in June 2019.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My son, family is so important. He always surprises me with his caring nature for people and animals. We can sit side by side for hours doing our own thing in comfortable silence, and he never forgets the importance of family.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
The Kelowna farmers' markets. This is one of my absolute favorite things to do on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the summer!! There’s nothing like fresh, local fruit and veggies and exploring small local companies.
Describe yourself in one word.
Dynamic
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Bora Bora- to enjoy the stunning views. Bora Bora's lagoon features some of the most amazing colored turquoise water you'll see anywhere.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Going to the beach and lakes- spending time on or near the water.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Getting caught in the wind and flashing my underwear.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Sometimes the bad things that happen in our lives put us on the path to the best things that will ever happen to us. I lost my son in 2015 and it has changed my life and my view on life. It taught me the importance of living your best life and going after things you never thought possible.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Riding my horse with my first cousin and singing" Like a Rhinestone Cowboy" and really feeling the vibe. We did this on a regular basis as children.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am new to the community and I am still working on finding the best fit for me when it comes to volunteering. I worked for a company in Winnipeg and was very active in community outreach and all things community that was available to me. I have just been asked to be on the Board of Directors for Hope Outreach and I have accepted. I look forward to working with the people that society tends to forget.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
More community and less online time for everyone.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Mission Creek Park - Absolutely stunning and tranquil.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think as a community we need to open our eyes and ears to understand the needs of others even if it is something we are not familiar with, do not like, or have never experienced. Brightening someone else’s day without them knowing who did it can make a big difference in people's lives.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The lakes, agriculture, and wine.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’m not afraid of getting old or dying.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Kelowna Rocks FaceBook page
Why did you get into/start this business?
I started it in Winnipeg and it had such an amazing impact on the community.
What is the goal of your business?
To have the schools, daycares, senior residences, the homeless community, and the art community involved in Kelowna Rocks.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Coping with the death of a loved one.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn't do it any different. No regrets...
What do you always find yourself saying?
Life is hard, but keep smiling.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"You cannot do better unless you know better."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I would have to say, Oprah Winfrey or Michele Obama. Both have been an inspiration to me and have shown woman around the world that despite tragedy, you can rise, be heard and make a change.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To support the local families and businesses and keep supporting the local community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Trudging forward after the loss of my 17-year-old son.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Angie Lohr from Hope Outreach because she started her journey here 11 years ago and she has made huge changes to the way people and society look at addiction and recovery.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you so much for the opportunity to be featured on KelownaNow.
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