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Meet Kara! Kara is originally from Winnipeg and has been living here in the Okanagan for six years now. She enjoys being outdoors in nature, exploring the downtown shops, and spending some quality time with her daughter.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Winnipeg, but moved to the Okanagan 6 years ago.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My daughter Sophie is 6 years old. She is hilarious, energetic and inquisitive! We often spend time together outside enjoying the beauty that is the Okanagan!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
The Farm Bound Zero Waste store in Kelowna on Lawrence! I know the owner, Jaye, and I'm so excited to have a bulk food & produce store locally!
Describe yourself in one word.
Ambitious.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Nice, France. I studied there years ago and fell in love with the city. I'd bring a good book and sit on the beach. ;)
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Walking around downtown with my daughter; spending time at City Park.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I have been a single parent for the past 6 years. Learning how to juggle a busy career, motherhood, personal life and any extracurricular activities has been challenging to say the least. But it's forced me to dig deep and lean on my community for support.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My family has a farm just outside of Winnipeg (where I spent my early years) and I have fond memories of playing on the farm, hiding in trails and riding ATV's & snowmobiles.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am very passionate about homelessness and mental health in our community. Prior to coming on board with Compass Cannabis Clinic, I worked in the social services field for 15 years, particularly with marginalized groups. I still volunteer with some of these organizations now.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
End Homelessness.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I really enjoy walking down Abbott Street and admiring the heritage homes.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see more support dedicated to those affected by mental health & substance use in our community. I do know that there are a lot of agencies and resources, but I think there could always be more!
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The variety of outdoor activities, culture, nightlife and good restaurants.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Travel to Africa.
Learn how to paint.
Become a certified yoga instructor.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I played ladies rugby for the last 2 years.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook, Instagram & Linkedin
What is the name of your business/organization?
Compass Cannabis Clinics
Why did you get into/start this business?
My good friends started the company and I was really interested in this growing industry. I got in at the right time!
What is the goal of your business?
We aim to streamline the process for patients to access medicinal cannabis.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Juggling parenthood & my career.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
Definitely the same! I've had some really hard lessons, been knocked down plenty of times, but my drive to get back up increases!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Life usually doesn't look anything like we planned. Embrace the mess."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Elton John! I would ask him to serenade me all day!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I love supporting local businesses! I know how hard it is to set up businesses, how much time away from your family, resources, obstacles we often face. So when I shop locally, in a way, I'm acknowledging that person's hard work.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising a strong-willed, vibrant, progressive daughter!
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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