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Meet Jackie Ward. Jackie has lived in Kelowna for 18 years. She is passionate about creating beautiful, handmade jewelry and gives back to the community by volunteering at a kids camp in Peachland.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Originally from small town Turner Valley, Alberta, but have called Kelowna home for 18 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband and two boys are my world. I love watching my kids learn and grow, and my husband continuously pushes me to my full potential. He's my biggest supporter and best friend.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Okanagan Grocery. They have the most amazing chocolate bread stuffed with callebaut chocolate and chocolate croissants!
Describe yourself in one word.
Tenacious.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
New Zealand. Growing up I lived and breathed the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Probably the nerdiest thing about me but I would love to go see Hobbiton and the beautiful surrounding landscape.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Snowboarding up at Big White. I've had so many amazing seasons there. I'm excited to spend more time teaching the boys how to board as they get older.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I once asked this super cute guy out at work. I was so nervous and I tripped directly in font of him. We've been together for 5 years now.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Honestly, being a mom. It's amazing, completely exhausting, and so rewarding. I have the most beautiful spirited boys, and I learn from them each and every day.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
There's so many, but when I was little my siblings and I would spend some of our summer on Vancouver Island with our Oma and Opa. We would explore the forest, and go to Long Beach to play in the ocean waves. My Oma has since passed but I cherish all of those incredible moments with her.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I like to give back to Maple Springs Bible Camp in Peachland. I spent a few summers as a camp leader or working in the kitchen there when I was in school, such an amazing place for kids.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Smartphone addiction. I'm all for technology, but I think a lot of us could live more and worry about social media less.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
What's alone time?
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see proper housing or safe areas for our homeless. It's frustrating to find needles in parks and on beaches where my kids play.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Kelowna is beautiful. Okanagan Lake, the mountains, and rolling orchards, I'm blessed to call this place home.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Owning a house on the ocean.
2. Exploring Europe.
3. Potty training my toddler.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I make pretty jewelry, but my true creativity and passion is in painting. I've always been a talented artist, and I'm excited to explore that medium more when my kids are older.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
I spend a lot of time at local farmers markets, it's so wonderful interacting with so many different people. I've made a lot of friends and connections this way.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Oak Handmade Jewelry.
Why did you get into/start this business?
It was really by fluke. I had made myself a couple leather and lava stone bracelets and was suddenly floaded with inquires for them. After making a bunch for family and friends I decided to try the Kelowna Famers Market, and the rest is history.
What is the goal of your business?
I love creating! What an amazing feeling it has been making beautiful and quality jewelry for people to enjoy. I'm just seeing where the road takes me.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I am an incredible procrastinator, and always have been. My husband knows how to get shit done, and helps push me through all these ups and downs.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I love where I am! It's definitely been an interesting road but I would never change the outcome.
What do you always find yourself saying?
I need a coffee.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
You can do anything, but not everything.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I'd like to hang out with Chris Pratt for a day, he seems like a fun guy.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I think it's important to support the local makers and farmers of our community. There is an abundance of wonderful local products in Kelowna that we are so fortunate to have access to.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Growing a fun and successful business amidst the beautiful chaos of family.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Rachelle Zelaney, one of the kindest people I have ever met. She's beautiful both inside and out, takes incredible photos and grows some pretty tasty veggies!
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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