Community Spotlight

After nearly two decades in real estate, Kelowna-born entrepreneur Ceinwen Garcia has taken her love for connection beyond buying and selling homes. While her career as a realtor remains her “first love,” Ceinwen has carved out space to empower others through her newest venture, The Boss Network, a bold community designed to nurture entrepreneurs and nine-to-fivers alike. What started as a simple gathering of women years ago has evolved into a movement, creating platforms for leaders to share their perspectives and inspire others to step out of their comfort zones.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Breaking_New_Ground_with_The_Boss_Network/

Kelowna Fashion Week is back for its second year, running September 18–21, with events at the Innovation Centre and Coast Capri Hotel. Featuring 29 designers from across Canada and more than 150 models, the four-day event blends education, inclusivity, and entertainment to create an accessible entry point into the fashion industry. Designers range in age from 13 to their 70s, highlighting the diverse talent that Kelowna Fashion Week is proud to bring together.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Kelowna_Fashion_Week_Returns_with_Inclusive_Showcase/

Kelowna is buzzing as the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) brings its iconic Country Music Week to the city for the very first time. While the televised awards at Prospera Place have already sold out, the week offers far more than a single show. Fans and community members can look forward to a series of free and ticketed events across the city, blending big-name talent with uniquely local experiences.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Kelowna_Gets_Ready_for_CCMA_Country_Music_Week/

Starbright Children’s Development Centre has been quietly shaping lives in Kelowna since 1966, offering early intervention therapies and programming for children from birth to kindergarten. Covering the Central Okanagan from Oyama to Peachland, Starbright provides individualized support for children facing developmental challenges, or those at risk of them, through a multidisciplinary approach that includes speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, infant development consultation, and inclusive childcare programming.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Supporting_Young_Futures_in_the_Okanagan/

Rooted in Lake Country: Discovering Peak Cellars – brought to you by ATB Wealth’s Community Spotlight with Alexa Anderson and Develyn Barker of Peak Cellars.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Raising_a_Glass_to_Lake_Country/

From rock climbing walls and yoga yurts to dog agility demos and Ultimate Frisbee, Kelowna Made is back. and it’s bigger than ever. Relaunched by the City of Kelowna, this three-day celebration is more than just a music festival. With full programming on August 16 and 17, plus amusement rides running through August 18, it’s a family-first event designed to showcase everything local, fun, and community-driven.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Kelowna_Made_Brings_the_Community_Together/

Cherries, apples, pears, and passion. These are just a few things that connect two of Kelowna’s most recognized orchard families: Jealous Fruits and Bella Rosa Orchards. While their farms operate separately, their deep Italian roots, shared history, and mutual respect for innovation in agriculture tie them together in a uniquely local way.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/From_Orchard_to_Global_Market/

Good eyesight plays a huge role in a child’s development, yet many parents don’t realize just how early eye health should be checked. In fact, optometrists recommend that children have their first eye exam at just six months old.Catching issues like coordination problems, lazy eyes, or significant prescriptions early makes treatment easier and more effective, sometimes preventing surgery later in life.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Clear_Vision_Starts_Early_with_Pediatric_Eye_Care_in_the_Okanagan/

When women hit their 40s and beyond, many find themselves stuck, what once worked no longer does, and the advice out there can be frustratingly generic. That’s where fitness and nutrition coach Dawn Thalheimer steps in. Working primarily with women navigating perimenopause and menopause, Dawn focuses on customized coaching built around three core pillars: fitness, nutrition, and self-care.From sleep and stress to meal plans and movement, she tailors everything to the individual, helping women feel stronger and more in control of their bodies again.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Empowering_Women_Through_Wellness_Dawn_Thalheimer_s_Holistic_Approach/

If you're looking for a new way to explore the Okanagan’s wild side, canyoning might be your next adventure. Picture this: rappelling down waterfalls, sliding through natural water chutes, and jumping into hidden pools, right here in your own backyard. That’s exactly what Okanagan Canyoning Adventure offers. Co-owner and lead guide Matthew Arnold, along with his team at Western Canyoning Collective, is making this growing sport more accessible to locals and visitors alike.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Discover_Canyoning_in_the_Okanagan_Waterfalls_Adventure_and_a_New_Way_to_Explore/

Opera Kelowna is breaking the stereotype that opera is only for the elite or the overly cultured. With performances that range from full-scale productions to free outdoor concerts, the organization is creating experiences that are welcoming, engaging, and surprisingly emotional. Featured in this episode of Community Spotlight, presented by ATB Wealth, Opera Kelowna’s story is one of passion, inclusion, and a deep commitment to making opera accessible to everyone.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/A_Fresh_Look_at_Opera_in_the_Okanagan/

KelownaNow’s Community Spotlight, powered by ATB Wealth, shines this week on Izabela Picco, the spirited voice behind Let’s Not Sugarcoat It. What began as three friends chatting by a backyard fire table has grown into 125 episodes of raw, unfiltered storytelling about motherhood and life’s imperfect moments. “If we’re feeling this way, others must be feeling it too,” Izabela recalls of that first spark that pushed her to press record.Listeners quickly embraced the show’s messy honesty, from fertility struggles to teenage growing pains, proving there is comfort in hearing the truth aloud.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/No_Sugar_Just_Real_Talk_with_Izabela_Picco/

Amy Cohen is expanding her reach with the launch of Okanagan Corporate Retreats, a new venture designed to bring corporate teams into the heart of the Okanagan for thoughtfully curated multi-day experiences.Already known for her work with The Chic Experience and events like Connect and CoLab, Amy is building on her passion for community, connection, and purposeful business growth.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Expanding_Her_Impact_Amy_Cohen_Launches_Okanagan_Corporate_Retreats/

In this latest Community Spotlight powered by ATB Wealth, we have Kyle Horvath, Director of Business Development and Program Delivery for The Newly Institute, an outpatient mental health clinic that recently opened its doors in Kelowna.With existing locations across Canada, from Calgary to Halifax, The Newly Institute brings its coast-to-coast approach to care by offering specialized mental health support to individuals dealing with trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addictions, and chronic pain. “We really want to help people get through their goals to where they want to be in their wellness,” Kyle shared.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Supporting_Mental_Wellness_in_Kelowna_The_Newly_Institute_Joins_the_Community/

In this latest episode of Community Spotlight sponsored by ATB Wealth, guests Heather Leary from FarmFolk CityFolk and Laura Luckhurst of Luckhurst Farm and Distillery talks about the upcoming 2025 Okanagan Feast of Fields event.This annual celebration of local food and agriculture brings together farmers, chefs, wineries, and distilleries for a day full of delicious flavors, live music, and farm fun. Set for Sunday, September 21st, at Luckhurst Farm, it promises to be a highlight of the Okanagan’s vibrant food scene.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Community_Spotlight_Supporting_Local_Agriculture_and_Food_with_the_2025_Okanagan_Feast_of_Fields/

In this week's Community Spotlight brought to us by ATB Wealth Kelowna, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Ezra and Crystal Cremers from Kelowna City Football Club. Their passion for football and community is truly inspiring.What began as a trick into coaching has now blossomed into a thriving football club dedicated to player development, community connection, and fostering resilience in both kids and adults alike.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Building_Community_Through_Football_A_Spotlight_on_Kelowna_City_FC/

In the latest episode of Community Spotlight, brought to us by ATB Wealth, Alexa from KelownaNow welcomes Mindy Crawford, a Human Design Coach and former Director of Digital Marketing for Jillian Harris.What started as a maternity leave reflection turned into a career pivot when Mindy discovered human design—a self-awareness system that blends astrology, the I Ching, Kabbalah, and the chakra system to create a personal blueprint for growth. “It’s not about where you are right now, it’s about your highest potential,” she shares.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Discovering_Alignment_Human_Design_with_Mindy_Crawford/

In this latest Community Spotlight episode brought to you by ATB Wealth, host Rob Cupello is joined by Derek B. Rodriguez of Lakeside Pharmacy—a business that’s been a cornerstone of Kelowna healthcare for 50 years.Known for doing things differently, Lakeside offers not just prescriptions but real conversations, custom formulations, and care that actually feels personal.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Breaking_the_Script_on_Pharmacy_Care_How_Lakeside_Pharmacy_Is_Leading_With_Heart_and_Innovation/

In the latest episode of Community Spotlight, brought to us by ATB Wealth Kelowna, host Jim Csek sits down with Sandrine Raffault and Elyse Wright, the dynamic duo behind Sandrine French Pastry and Chocolate.A staple in Kelowna for 21 years, the shop is known for its exquisite cakes, chocolates, pastries, and gelato—all made from scratch with real, quality ingredients. As a third-generation French chocolatier, Sandrine brings her heritage into every creation, while Elyse keeps things running smoothly out front.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Sweet_Expansion_Sandrine_French_Pastry_and_Chocolate_Opens_Second_Location_in_Kelowna/

In this episode of Community Spotlight powered by ATB Wealth, we’re joined by Mark Veriker, the creative force behind Fancys Cold Cuts & Cocktails. Mark shares his journey from a young gas station worker to an experienced figure in the hospitality industry.Starting with a job at a bingo hall, his passion for service grew, leading him to work in everything from fine dining to pubs, eventually shaping the vision for Fancys.https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Discover_Fancys_A_Unique_Deli_Experience_in_the_Heart_of_Kelowna/

On the latest episode of ATB Wealth's Community Spotlight, host Rob Cupello sat down with Ginny Becker, Executive Director of the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC), to discuss the centre's critical role in supporting children and families navigating the impact of abuse.Read morehttps://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Supporting_Vulnerable_Children_and_Families_How_Community_Advocacy_Makes_a_Difference/

The ATB Wealth Community Spotlight brought holiday joy as Alexa Anderson of KelownaNow and Indy Brar from Kelowna Toyota detailed the Kelowna Santas initiative. Now in its 12th year, Kelowna Santas helps families facing tough financial decisions during the holidays."Kelowna Santas began when Nikki and Jim Csek saw families forced to choose between necessities and holiday gifts," Alexa explained. "We aim to put at least one gift under the tree for children aged 0 to 17."Read morehttps://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Kelowna_Santas_Making_the_Holidays_Brighter_for_Hundreds_of_Families/

The latest episode of Community Spotlight, presented by ATB Wealth, features Trina Speiser, Director of Development at the Central Okanagan Food Bank.Host Rob Cupello delves into the vital role the food bank plays in supporting individuals and families across Kelowna and West Kelowna.From addressing immediate hunger needs to tackling long-term challenges, the food bank’s efforts extend far beyond distributing food.Read morehttps://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Building_Hope_Central_Okanagan_Food_Bank_s_Impact_on_the_Community/

In this episode of ATB Community Spotlight, Michelle Dickie, Executive Director of the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, shared the impactful work her team does, their evolving programs, and the pressing need for community conversations about domestic abuse.The Kelowna Women’s Shelter provides a broad range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and families.Read morehttps://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Kelowna_Women_s_Shelter_A_Lifeline_of_Hope_and_Support%C2%A0/

In today’s Community Spotlight, we shine a light on an impactful local business and one of its dynamic co-owners.In partnership with ATB Wealth, host Rob Cupello sat down with Gabi Goossen, co-owner of Fill Kelowna, a sustainable retail store that encourages customers to cut down on plastic waste.Read more https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Fill_Kelowna_offers_easy_affordable_ways_to_be_a_more_sustainable_shopper_this_Christmas/

In the second episode of Community Spotlight, hosted by Rob Cupello, the focus was on Mamas for Mamas, an incredible charity making a significant impact in the Okanagan community.With the support of ATB Wealth, the episode explored the organization’s mission and its upcoming Suits and Boots Gala, a highly anticipated event set to take place on November 9th at the Delta Grand.Read morehttps://www.kelownanow.com/watercoole...

In the latest episode of Community Spotlight, brought to you by ATB Wealth, Alexa sat down with Danica Dutt, president of Kelowna Women in Business (KWIB), to talk about connection, community, and the organization’s big impact across the city.

In a recent conversation on ATB Wealth Community Spotlight, Rob sat down with Nathan Flavel, founder of Kelowna Actors Studio, to discuss the studio's incredible 23-year journey, its impact on the local arts scene, and what lies ahead.From Accidental Beginnings to Community Cornerstone"Real estate was always sort of my passion," Nathan admits, reflecting on his early career. But after meeting co-founder Randy Leslie, who had moved from Toronto to become the first executive director of the Rotary Centre for the Arts, things quickly changed. "We produced a show, and it made money, and people were like, 'How did you do theater without needing funding?'"What started as a few classes in an old dance studio snowballed into a full-fledged theater company. "I remember calling my mom and saying, 'I'm going to quit my job and start a theater company,'" Nathan recalls. "She was like, 'What?' But it just took off gangbusters."Building a LegacyToday, Kelowna Actors Studio is known for its high-caliber productions and vibrant educational programs. "We’ve grown so much," Nathan says. "Our original students from 23 years ago are now performing in main stage shows. It’s a tearjerker for us."When the pandemic hit, the studio leaned back into education. They created the Academy Foundation, a nonprofit offering scholarships and arts programs, run independently of Nathan and Randy. "It’s super awesome, actually," Nathan laughs. "I don’t want that headache."Broadway Dreams in KelownaThe studio's reputation has earned them the chance to debut major productions in Canada. "We did Waitress — the first presentation in Western Canada — and Tootsie, the first in all of Canada for a regional group," Nathan shares proudly. This year’s lineup includes Singing in the Rain (complete with on-stage rain bar), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sweeney Todd, and the new Broadway adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."We work hard in our little space," Nathan says. "Our team is so passionate — sometimes to a fault — but we all just want to make the experience amazing."The Power of Live TheaterIn an age of AI and digital entertainment, Nathan believes theater's magic lies in its authenticity. "Theater is real. It’s right in front of you," he says. "My favorite thing is when people mess up on stage. It reminds you they’re human. I love seeing mistakes — just not in my theater!"He hopes Kelowna continues to embrace the arts. "The community support blows my mind every year," he says. "I’d love to see a point where people just decide to 'go to the cultural district' without needing to know exactly what show is playing — like how you decide to see a movie."Balancing Passion and LifeDespite juggling his theater role with a managing broker position at Sotheby’s, Nathan wouldn’t have it any other way. "Real estate is my job, but the theater is my golf," he laughs. "I don’t ski or golf anymore — the theater is the rest of my life."He even steps on stage himself, recently playing Pharaoh in Joseph and gearing up to play Willy Wonka this Christmas. "They’re long days," he admits. "But it fills the well. It doesn’t feel like work."What’s Next?As Kelowna Actors Studio gears up for its 24th season announcement, Nathan and Randy are tight-lipped. "We plan a year and a half in advance, and we keep it super quiet," Nathan teases. "Even the staff don’t know until the day of the announcement. It’s just fun."For those who haven’t experienced a show yet, Nathan offers a simple pitch: "It’s not like the movies. You feel like you’re somewhere else. The magic of theater is that it gets under your skin and pokes at something you didn’t even know was lingering there."With their unwavering passion, commitment to quality, and love for their community, Kelowna Actors Studio is sure to keep creating that magic for years to come.For show schedules and ticket information, visit kelownaactorsstudio.com. And to hear the full conversation and all the behind-the-scenes stories, be sure to watch the complete interview above!

KelownaNow welcomes a new series as Community Spotlight debuts its first episode, set to air every Thursday at 11 a.m. Hosted by Alexa Anderson and joined by Amy Cohen of Chic Experience, the series aims to shine a light on the incredible events, partnerships, and inspiring individuals that make the Okanagan such a vibrant place to live. A special thanks goes out to ATB Wealth, whose sponsorship makes this series possible.Read morehttps://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Community_Spotlight/Community_Spotlight_Debuts_Highlighting_Connections_and_Collaborations/