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Meet Ellen. Ellen has lived in the Okanagan for eight years. She owns a mental health practice called Inspired Counselling. When she isn't helping people discover their true potential and happiness, with her business or volunteering at Mamas for Mamas, she enjoys spending time with her four sons.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born in the Okanagan, grew up in Northern Alberta and have currently lived in Kelowna for eight years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
I have four favourites; my sons! They are my delight.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Winners, Quality Clothes for Less, and Kennedy Parables, love browsing through the books and finding an inspiring read.
Describe yourself in one word.
Genuine.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Greece has been calling me to explore its uniqueness for years, and the Maldives to relax.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking and waterfall exploring.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I accidentally backed my car into my sisters car due to an attitude and frustration on my part, I was not paying attention, not a time I like to remember.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Being a part of a Hillsong conference in LA with 10,000 people.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Watching Anne of Green Gables with my Grandma.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer at Mamas for Mamas in the Mental Health department.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Equality, no one person is better or less than the other, every individual no matter the culture, race, gender or financial status has equal importance and value.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
The top of Knox mountain or a beach.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see affordable housing. So many struggle to find housing that fits their budget.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The people and our stunning scenery, we truly live in a beautiful city. Every time I go out in nature I marvel at the beauty and am so thankful to call this home. We have a spectacular back yard to play and relax in called Kelowna.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Visiting Greece
- Creating a space for Women to Connect. (You'll have to ask me personally what this means).
- Taking my kids on a tropical vacation.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I love to dance even though I have two left feet, someday I will master the ballroom dance.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook, Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Inspired Counselling
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have a passion and desire to see all individuals live life walking confidently in knowing 'who they are' and live their purpose and dreams.
What is the goal of your business?
To encourage and inspire others.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Public speaking ... and the finer details of book keeping are not my strength, hence I have to work hard at this.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would have lived life less concerned about the 'small stuff' and focus more on the positive.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Be who you are, accept your uniqueness, don't worry so much about what others think. Chase your dreams, find out what gives you joy and work to make this a part of your life. Be thankful and look for the opportunity and value in each circumstance and day.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Chistine Caine, a speaker and author. She is an inspiration and motivator. She speaks the truth and says it how it is, not giving room for a 'poor me' mentality.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To support our business owners in venturing out and creating their dreams and goals, it also builds opportunity for community connections when shopping local.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being a mom to four amazing boys, who have now turned into young men.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Sherri-Ann Anderson. She has a heart of gold for helping support students and their families with the information, motivation and behavioural skills needed to make healthy decisions.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Diverse Sexuality Education.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
"Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your heart on fire," author unknown.
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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