In Focus | Joanne King

Meet Jo! She started Hub Office Furniture from the ground up with her business partner, Jules Galloway!



Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Originally from Regina, lived in Calgary for 10 years and kept going west...in Kelowna for almost 10!

Who is your favourite person to spend time with?
My amazing husband, Bob! We have been together almost 25 years and he makes me laugh and is so supportive of me.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
So many...I love what Okanagan Lifestyle is doing and their brand is so strong!

Describe yourself in one word.
Positive.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
New York! I have been a few times and love the shows, the shopping, the restaurants and the anonymity of a big city.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Summer! Is that an activity? Haha! Sitting at the beach, by the pool, sipping on a patio, wine touring...all of it.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I was at a restaurant in Winnipeg on a work trip many years ago that had bathrooms with something obscure on the outside instead of W or M. I went into the M and when I realized it and starting walking out....in came the new president....

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I have led many people in my career and I have always been inspired by seeing people grow, develop and achieve success.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My Dad used to coach football in Saskatchewan, so my brother and I were always at game, a practice or something football. I balanced that with being a dancer... Haha!



Where do you volunteer or give back in the community?
I worked for many years for non profits so I know how important it is. CMHA, COHA, Heart and Stroke. My husband and I also donate to Gospel Mission and Freedom's Door as often as we can. My business is also actively looking to partner with an organization that supports women in the workforce or entrepreneurship in some way.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I am a libra so I want everyone to just get along and be kind. Just starting with that can make so much change. Oh, and no cancer!

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Sarsons Beach.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I have no answer, but I think we still have work to do with our homeless situation and the battle we are facing with drugs.

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The weather, the wine, the people!

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
I don't really have a bucket list. Have more fun I guess and all that falls into that bucket and grow my business.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram: @hubofficefurnitureinc
Facebook: Hub Office Furniture Inc
Website: www.hubofficefurniture.com

What is the name of your business/organization?
Hub Office Furniture Inc.

Why did you get into/start this business?
My business partner, Jules Galloway and I met, there was a gap in the market for what we provide, and we are trying to change the way people think about office furniture.

What is the goal of your business?
We want to help people create environments that encourage productivity and wellbeing. Furniture is so much more than just furniture.

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Trying to fit everything and everyone in that I love.

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
All my experiences, both good and bad have brought me here and I am so excited for what is to come!



What do you always find yourself saying?
"It is what it is" or "let's do it."

Tell us your best piece of life advice.
It always works out if you put in the work.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I lost my Dad last year so, I'm sorry living people, but I would love another day with him.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Supporting anything local keeps the Okanagan alive and thriving and unique.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Starting Hub Inc. from the ground up!

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My brother, Chris Orban. He is a Kelowna Firefighter and kids coach and works so hard and doesn't ask for anything in return.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Jennifer James, my sister in law who has a business: Fit Happens Training.

Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you for highlighting every day people! Come by Hub anytime and say hi! We are on the main floor of Landmark 6!

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!