In Focus | Danielle Riise

| October 10, 2019 in In Focus

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Meet Danielle. Danielle is from Golden, BC and has lived in Kelowna for 6 years. Danielle likes spending time with her husband and dogs.


Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?

Born in Golden BC. Have lived in Kelowna 6 years.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband. We have fun doing the most mundane things like grocery shopping. When we are doing something we really love it's a whole new ball game haha.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Oh there are so many. Tail Blazers. I love our dogs more than pretty much anything. They are knowledgeable, kind, and carry a healthy range of food for my loved.

Describe yourself in one word.
Compassionate

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Nashville to see my childhood friend. It's simply been far too long and we miss each other terribly.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Hahaha a few but one I'll share is falling into one of those old fold up lawn chairs while meeting most of my high school sweethearts extended family for the first time. I was wearing a dress and flashed them all while I folded into the chair lol.


What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?

Having people believe in me and support me as I pursue my dreams.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Just one?
Flintstone land when we'd visit my aunt MaryJane in Kelowna
My aunt used to sing 'hit the road Jack...' when we were leaving because I'd always be so upset to leave her

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I love volunteering at my church. Other than that I don't have a local group or charity I regularly support, rather I give where I feel my heart leads me. I did a missions trip to Myanmar years ago and I've done many fundraisers to help them.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Every dog would have a loving happy healthy and safe home.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Jump on my road bike and just go, it doesn't matter where when I'm on it. Other than that taking my dogs for a hike with nobody around, it's incredible.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
Traffic lights! Oh my goodness why can't they by synced for better traffic flow. Advanced greens on weird streets and none on busy intersections. Haha it makes this small city feel like there's over a million people driving around.

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Other than the exceptional weather, lake and landscape? The community is amazing. I absolutely love that it's a city but has a small town feel.


What are 3 things on your bucket list?

Travel the world
Have a dog rescue where we rehabilitate dogs, train them, give them medical attention and adopt them out as well as give to people who need service/PTSD dogs
Write my book

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I'm a chef by trade

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook, instagram

What is the name of your business/organization?
I have several

Why did you get into/start this business?
I've been through my own experiences that have left me feeling vulnerable financially and it's a really hard place to be. I want people to have financial freedom so they are never limited by finances.

What is the goal of your business?
Give people financial freedom and choices.

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
The limitations and fears that happen between my ears


If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?

I'd do things differently. I'd take more control of my choices and my mind. I'd be more courageous and learn how to not let fear get in my way. But I wouldn't change the things I've been through, they've helped me find who I'm made to be to help others.

What do you always find yourself saying?
Hi and I love you.

Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Be your authentic self. You were made for greatness, find it and lean into it.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Melanie Greenough.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
They've started a business that's meaningful to them for one reason or another. It's a wonderful thing to support people especially when they are a friend. My husband would tell you I've never met a stranger, everyone is a new friend. Friends support friends.  

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Stepping out in faith and pursuing new careers/opportunities after leaving my successful career as a chef

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My mom. She does So much for so many people and never asks or expects anything in return. She has the most beautiful heart.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Anja Sorrenson

Some general comments I would like to share are:
Give yourself grace as you navigate this life, you're probably your own worst critic like I am. Be honest with yourself and allow yourself to be open and vulnerable. And learn to follow that desire in your gut that tells you 'there's more to life than this'.


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!

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