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Meet Rachel! She's a chef, born and raised in Penticton, and has lived in Kelowna for 3 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favourite person to spend time with is my son Kolby. We have a lot of fun together. Whether it’s just hanging out watching movies, or playing nerf wars, it’s a good way to reconnect after a long day of work.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
My favourite local store in Kelowna is Float Space. Floating is a good way for me to relax and decompress from life’s stresses.
Describe yourself in one word.
Creative
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would like to travel around Europe to learn about different technique and cuisine. I would love to visit local restaurants and connect with the chefs and their food. I would use the time spent, to indulge in food, wine, and learning.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
My favourite activity in Kelowna is going to the beach.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
The most embarrassing moment that I can remember was giving away the chef's judges plates at a competition. When they came around to see my plates I had nothing to show them.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
The most inspiring thing that’s happened to me is having my son Kolby. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’ve had to push myself to further my career and education for him. Working hard has won me scholarships and competitions. I’m currently finishing my Red Seal apprenticeship.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favourite childhood memory is going on family road trips. I have two other sisters that I love hanging out with.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am a member of the Okanagan Chefs Association so there are many opportunities to give back to the community. I volunteer at different events for fundraising or volunteer wherever I’m needed to help out.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That everyone cares for one another. No more hate.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I would like to go to Sparkling Hill. It seems like the ultimate getaway.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see fewer people struggling with hunger and homelessness. I would like to see more support in our community to help with the situation.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Food, wine, and tourism.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel
2. Win an episode of Chopped
3. Skydive
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’m terrified of heights.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
rbroe on Instagram
What is the name of your business/organization?
I work for Summerhill winery.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I wanted to learn more about wine and make beautiful food.
What is the goal of your business?
To gain more knowledge in the organic food and wine business.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
My biggest struggle was going to school full time and working after. I had no time to spend with my son.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn’t change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Hard no', 'are you serious', 'come on.'
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Follow your heart.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Heston Blumenthal
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Shopping locally helps our community. We support small family businesses instead of the big corporations, which helps boost our economy.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Finishing the Red Seal Course.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My Mom, Michelle. She has been supporting me throughout my life’s journey and I appreciate her.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
My chef, Jeremy Luypen.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Never stop chasing your dream.
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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