Meet Keira! Keira is originally from Sherwood Park, Alberta and has been living here in Kelowna for one year. She enjoys sampling food at all the incredible local restaurants and hanging out with her pup & favorite furry companion, Pi.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I grew up in Sherwood Park, Alberta and have been living in Kelowna for a year now.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Oh so many people! But my dog (Pi) I'd have to say. She is super hilarious and so sweet.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Smack Dab. Amazing food and wonderful views.
Describe yourself in one word.
Ambitious.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Patagonia in Chile. It was my dream trip after I graduated chiropractic school but was fortunate enough to get a job right away. Patagonia is an incredibly beautiful place and I would love to explore!
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Basically, anything outside! I do love taking the pup to the dog beach though. I get some sun and she gets some waves.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I'm not good with needles...I was shadowing a surgeon while he was performing a paracentesis... I fainted on the nurse and had to be taken to the ER. I didn't make a very good impression.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Before I moved to Kelowna I had the opportunity to work with the U.S military veterans in Lowa as a chiropractor. Every day those men and women shocked me with incredible stories of their time serving. It was amazing to see how they thrive especially in the face of adversity and still seek to help others.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
At my parents’ house we would set up a wicked slip n slide. We would add in some obstacles and dish soap to give it a little edge. A couple scrapes and bruises but we would be laughing so hard and would be so exhausted from being outside all day.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
This past winter I was the head coach for the U16 KRA team. I am on the board of the Okanagan Young Health Professionals group. I also have volunteered in Peru building playgrounds and in El Salvador providing chiropractic care.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Climate change
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Down to the beach with my book and my dog!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
Petty crimes. Since moving to Kelowna I've had some weird small crimes happen to myself and others I know. It is very frustrating and a hindrance on your day when those things happen. I had someone drill a hole in my fuel tank, and it took months for it to be fixed completely.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Literally everything. I can't ever say enough incredible things about Kelowna and how happy I am to live here. The people are amazing, the lake, beaches, hiking, weather, ski hill.. All great.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Own/run my own clinic
2. Learn an instrument (banjo, saxophone)
3. Buy an Around-the-World ticket and travel for a year
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
Before I eat chips I have to squish the bag and the chips...
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook: Keira Fika, Instagram: @keirafika, @brixfamilychiropracticandwellness
What is the name of your business/organization?
Brix Family Chiropractic and Wellness
Why did you get into/start this business?
I've been seeing a chiropractor since I was 3 months old and they have always helped me with injuries from sports! Plus, I'm a people person and couldn't imagine a better day than doing what I love.
What is the goal of your business?
To provide the best chiropractic care based on individual needs and making sure we look at everyone as a whole person (including mental health) to truly address what is going on.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Once I graduated chiropractic school it was terrifying to be moving AGAIN to a new city where I have some family but really didn't know anyone. Add that to starting my practice was definitely a struggle.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
No regrets!
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Pi, don't eat that!"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Do everything you're afraid of that isn't too dangerous."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Sheryl Sandberg- COO of Facebook. As a woman high up in the tech industry she has constantly faced challenges such as the loss of her husband and the difficulties of being a female in a male-dominated business. She has always been willing to share her experiences - either mistakes or triumphs, and is an inspiration. Her book “Lean In” is a must read for everyone.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I think its super important to keep the money we spend in our local economy!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
This winter I was selected to present my research on migraines at a chiropractic research conference in Baltimore. It was thrilling to be a part of that community with some of the most brilliant minds in the profession.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
The whole Brix Family! We all work so well together and more importantly have fun and support each other :)
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Kyle Langelaan at MM Performance
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you KelownaNow for this feature. It is so incredibly important to get to know the people who make our community great and continually strive to be the best. Go Raptors!
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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!
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