In Focus | Kevin Forsythe

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?
Kevin Forsythe.

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I'm from Kelowna with a ten year stint in the states.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
How do you answer this without ticking somebody off? Not one person in general I'd say, have some very close friends who put up with me always coming over so I truly appreciate them!

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Man+Woman. They always have such great gear there! The staff are fantastic and always are there for a helping hand or suggestions for some new looks.

Describe yourself in one word.
Loyal.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Hawaii would be a great spot to go! Never been, and since its raining and snowing outside a warm beach and pool would be great!

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Oh brother, that's so hard. We have so many great things to do here in our little paradise! Relaxing with friends during the summer on the lake is always a great time!

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
The most embarrassing thing I can remember will remain classified to protect the innocent!

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Inspiration is a daily feat. I can't say I can think of one moment that stands by itself.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Disneyland!

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
This is an area I need to become better at, we did some flood relief support this summer to raise awareness. We donate to a few local charities & fundraisers but want to key in on more specific causes going forward in 2018.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I think to only change one thing isn't going to make much of a dent... that is if we are aiming to make a change for the good. The answer to this question could be so different depending many variables... perhaps leave it at that.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I often shoot up to the KVR on summer evenings and ride along the trail for awhile.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
City infrastructure - we are a rapidly growing city that is bursting at the seems in many ways. Attempts made to provide change seem to be already behind current needs or demands. Build with forward thinking, not responsive attempts to fix issues.

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
People, community and natural beauty.

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Must see my 30th Springsteen concert... stuck on 29 for awhile now!?
2. Spend a winter sailing the Virgin Islands
3. Playing Pebble Beach golf course

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I started a wine tour company two years ago.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
I prefer the device called a telephone... but sure I guess nowadays it's a lot of social media too. I still don't know what the purpose of twitter is..? Too many people with opinions nowadays!

What is the name of your business/organization?
Apres Tours.

Why did you get into/start this business?
I watched the wine industry growing so quickly & wanted to be part that growth. I felt we could provide a quality experience for guests who choose to spend an afternoon with us. Our 5 star rating tells me we are doing something correct!

What is the goal of your business?
There are a lot of tour companies in town, our aim is to not miss the small details that stand out and can help make the day great.

What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Satisfaction of successes - harbouring disappointment of failures

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I think most people would say a combination of both, to keep some things the same and make changes here and there. If you're adamant on making changes then apply them to daily life going forward.

What do you always find yourself saying?
Damn buses!! Not a fan of public transport that blocks traffic!

Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Save some money for a rainy day, start young and be disciplined with it.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Well, guess I'd have to say sorry to my friends and family members. I see enough of you! It was in a record store in 1984 I first heard a song by Bruce Springsteen, have been listening to his music ever since. Had the chance a few years ago in LA to get back stage and meet the 'Boss'. He was there drinking beer with bandmates and the LA elite, I was a bit out of my league you could say. But I was treated as an equal standing along the movie stars, famous musicians and other backstage passholders. I've had the privilege of meeting a fair number of famous people working South when I did, some were cool, some not and a few genuine but very few left a memorable impact. The music and stories from Bruce have been a part of life since I was a young kid, and most likely shaped parts of my life. So I would choose to spend the day with the Boss, maybe I should brush up on my guitar just in case!

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Kelowna is a small business town, always will be. You can either support the shareholder's of Tim Hortons or Starbucks, or perhaps support a local entrepreneur who lives in our community. Last time I checked the CEO's of Starbucks or Tim's don't live here!

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
I guess I would say recently starting a business from scratch. Having a vision of what you want to accomplish and then seeing it happen before your eyes! Takes a lot of work, but worth it!

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Stella Brown. She is the sales coordinator for Quails Gates residences. When I was starting our business I sought out the advice from Stella on how to create a unique and niche experience for guests. I truly value her ideas and support.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Stella Brown.

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.