2025 - 2026 Election & Board of Directors Candidates

Deina Albrecht
Director General Contracting, Acres Enterprises

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

As someone deeply committed to fostering community growth and business innovation, I am eager to join the Kelowna Chamber Board of Directors to contribute to its vision of driving economic prosperity and inclusivity. Representing Acres, I bring the perspective of an organization rooted in excellence, innovation, and impactful community engagement. My personal and professional journey, as an immigrant, a woman in construction, and a dedicated mentor, aligns with the Chamber’s goals of creating a thriving and equitable business environment.

I am motivated by the opportunity to bring fresh perspectives, collaborate with like-minded leaders, and champion initiatives that support business innovation, advocacy, and inclusivity. The Chamber provides a dynamic platform to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups, promote sustainability, and build a resilient local economy. I am excited to leverage my experience to drive initiatives that strengthen connections between businesses, enhance member value, and leave a lasting impact on the Kelowna community.

With over 27 years in architecture and construction, I’ve developed leadership skills that prioritize innovation, strategic execution, and people-centric results. As Director of General Contracting at Acres Enterprises, I oversee diverse, complex projects, ensuring exceptional quality and fostering collaboration among teams and stakeholders. My leadership style, which is grounded in empathy, inclusivity, and accountability, has driven successful outcomes across varied initiatives, from large-scale construction projects to meaningful community initiatives.

My community involvement reflects my passion for mentorship and advocacy. I’ve dedicated myself to supporting immigrants and women in construction through BCCA’s Building Builders Mentorship Program, offering guidance and resources to navigate professional challenges. Highlights include mentoring an immigrant architect over nine months to secure meaningful employment and assisting the Board of Directors on the RISE Memorial project, honoring lives lost in a tragic crane accident. Additionally, as Project Director for Critteraid Animal Sanctuary, I’ve led construction projects to improve facilities for rescued animals, further demonstrating my commitment to building better communities.

Binny Boparai
President, Co-Founder Farming Karma

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

As a business owner, entrepreneur, and advocate for local agriculture, I am passionate about
fostering economic growth and creating a thriving business environment in Kelowna. Through
my work with Farming Karma, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities
that businesses-especially those in the food, beverage, and agriculture industries-face in
today's evolving market. My motivation for joining the Kelowna Chamber Board of Directors
is:
- Advocacy for Local Businesses & Agriculture
- Strengthening Community & Industry Collaboration to create more opportunities
- Championing Entrepreneurship & Women in Business

Dobrila Braunstein
Packaging & Quality Manager, Western Operations, Sandhill Winery

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

Throughout my professional journey, I've always been deeply engaged in community involvement, providing me with invaluable insights and the chance to effect positive change in community dynamics and issues. As a prospective board member of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, my aim is to actively contribute to policy-making and initiatives aimed at benefiting our local business community, thereby shaping our economic landscape and fostering growth opportunities.

Being a resident of Kelowna and a professional within the local wine industry, I'm eager to leverage my combined community and industry expertise to support our local producers amid increasingly challenging climates and growing conditions. However, my aspirations extend beyond my immediate industry, as I'm committed to making contributions that benefit the broader Kelowna business community. With years of leadership experience in Kelowna's not-for-profit sector and beyond, I've established a robust network of professional and personal connections with various groups, leaders, advocates, and volunteers across our city's dynamic landscape. As a potential board member of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, I am enthusiastic about the prospect of further nurturing and expanding these relationships for the collective benefit of our community.

For nearly ten years, I've held leadership positions within the Food & Beverage industry, overseeing both Union and non-Union Operations teams. My primary duties have included constructing and managing operational budgets, implementing efficiencies while enhancing health and safety protocols, and overseeing the recruitment and management of personnel to meet production targets. Over the past 18 months, my focus has shifted towards building pillars of organizational excellence, encompassing structural and procedural enhancements, as well as fostering development in capabilities, leadership, and culture, alongside team-building initiatives. Notably, my attention over the past year has been dedicated to cultivating high-performing teams and ensuring operational stability. During my tenure as President at Kelowna Women in Business, I directed a team of 10-12 volunteer directors for a duration of three years. I successfully navigated the organization through the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, guaranteeing the continuity of services and financial stability, particularly amidst obstacles faced by in-person networking groups. I take pride in passing on the leadership responsibilities to the next generation of KWIB leaders, confident in the organization's strong financial and cultural foundation.

Jason Davis
General Manager, Vadium Security

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

During my career in the security industry, I have gained experience in all aspects of the
business, including financial management, budgeting, logistical planning for emergency
response, and team leadership. For eight years, I managed the Okanagan branch of a large
security firm, overseeing 250 employees and an annual revenue of $13 million.

I led my team through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, coordinating
emergency response efforts for Interior Health vaccination clinics, managing protests,
and addressing additional healthcare security needs. These experiences strengthened my
ability to navigate complex projects and adapt under pressure.

A key strength I bring is relationship-building and fostering collaboration and cohesion
within teams while supporting others to achieve shared goals. I believe my experience
coordinating large-scale projects involving multiple managers, subcontractors, and clients
will bring value to the team of Directors.

Kristian de Pont
Founder & CEO, Good Sorts Property Service

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

My journey in business and leadership has been a path of continuous learning and adaptation. Starting in the janitorial industry in Auckland, New Zealand, I learned the ropes from the ground up, progressing from hands-on work to strategic roles. This experience laid a strong foundation in understanding the nuances of business, including leading a team, finance, strategy, and long-term vision. Moving to Kelowna and founding Good Sorts Property Services, I applied these principles amidst the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic. This venture was not just a business challenge; it was a lesson in resilience and adaptability. We focused on building a financially sound business while keeping an eye on long-term goals, such as the acquisition of Prime Concrete Coatings and our plans for franchising in 2024.

My involvement in the community, through our local BNI chapter and the Chamber of Commerce, complements my business endeavours. It's been rewarding to share experiences with other local entrepreneurs and contribute to a supportive business environment. This aspect of my journey has been about giving back and fostering a culture of collective growth and development.

Colin Gayford
CFO, Traine Construction

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

Bring my real estate development and finance experience to help shape policies that impact development, housing, and investment. 

Caroline Gilchrist
Chair, Business Department Okanagan College

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

Laurel D. Hogg
Partner, Rush Ihas Hardwick LLP

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

I am a partner at a law firm in Kelowna. Having moved to the Okanagan only three years ago from Toronto, I am interested in becoming more involved with the community I work in. I have a vested interest in the growth and support of businesses in Kelowna both as a lawyer working in a downtown law firm in Kelowna and as a resident of Kelowna. The Kelowna Chamber offers the opportunity to connect with other business and community leaders who are interested in advocating for the Kelowna business community. I have substantial board experience, in Toronto and Kelowna, especially in board governance and advocacy. I would like the opportunity to leverage these skills in a setting that will allow me to make a direct impact in my community.

Please detail your experience in the areas of leadership, business planning (finance, strategic, long-term) and community involvement.

I was the Vice President and President of the Young Women in Law Board in Toronto, ON from 2016 - 2020. I managed a board of 13 women. In this role I was involved in fundraising and running events in the Toronto legal community. I was also a Board of Director and Chair of the Human Resources Committee for the Jessie's June Callwood.

Fei Liu
Executive Director, OCCA Communities

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

I am motivated to join the Kelowna Chamber Board of Directors because I am passionate about leveraging the skills and potential of immigrants and newcomers to maximize their contributions to Canada's economy. The immigrant and multicultural community brings a unique perspective and has significant market potential, which can drive new opportunities for growth and innovation. By empowering immigrant entrepreneurs who have settled here, we can unlock these opportunities and foster a more dynamic, inclusive economy. I’m joining the board on behalf of this community, with the goal of advocating for their needs and ensuring their voices are heard. I am eager to align my efforts with the Chamber’s priorities and am committed to accommodating your schedule to ensure a productive and collaborative experience.

Ryan P. Malcolm
Director, Business Development and Indigenous Relations

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

Becoming a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board offers a unique opportunity for me to be a part of the grass-roots business community as well as my professional growth and business network. Serving on the Board will allow me to actively contribute to the local business community's prosperity, and fostering valuable connections with other business leaders no matter what size of company they represent. 

Serving as a Director, the Board of the Chamber, its members and its stakeholders will greatly benefit from my extensive professional experience as well as my experience with both serving on non-profit Boards as well as reporting to many Boards as a senior executive and  many years reporting to Mayor and Council on the local government side of the table. 

As a Director in such an important leadership role offers a fulfilling opportunity to give back to the Kelowna business community while learning from and collaborating with peers who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table. 

Representing the Emil Anderson Group at the Board would be an honour as our company has had many touch points over the decades in Kelowna whether it was the Highway 97 expansion, the most significant water infrastructure project Kelowna had ever undertaken, or the development of the Dilworth Mountain and Tower Ranch neighbourhoods. Our tag-line at Emil Anderson is 'Community Driven' and what better way to exemplify this than to serve as a Director on the Board for the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce. 

George Marine
Regional Director of Operation Western Canada, Skyline Living

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

I am very passionate about Kelowna and it's community, I would be honored to utilize my
skill set and extensive experience in business, senior leadership positions,various business
and associations boards to support the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
towards achieving their vision and mission through various initiatives that will continue to
make Kelowna a thriving place to live and do business.

I am currently the Regional Director of Operations for Western Canada with Skyline Living
responsible for a portfolio generating approximately $65 million in annual income. I have over
35 years of business and senior leadership experience in various industries as well as
international professional experience having worked in the USA, Middle East, Caribbean and
across Canada. The main skills that I would bring to the board is a proven track record in
business development, extensive associations board experience and community
engagement.

Trevor Moss
CEO, Central Okanagan Food Bank

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

I have spent years encouraging others to serve on boards, and now I feel it's time to give
back in this way. With our organization's strong team in place, this is the ideal time to
collaborate and make a meaningful impact. For me, this isn't about status or using the
chamber to promote our charity-it's about advocating, educating, and raising awareness of
the vital role charities play in our community. This opportunity would also allow me to highlight
both the successes and challenges of our clients, who make up approximately 5-6% of our
community and represent a diverse range of ages, cultures, and backgrounds. It's a chance
to grow, build connections, and actively contribute to strengthening our community.

For the past 25 years, I have been leading and collaborating with not-for-profit organizations.
Strengths: Strategic thinking, leadership & mentoring, storytelling, and active listening.
Competencies: Extensive experience in strategy, leadership, marketing, and operations.
Skilled in fostering collaborative partnerships with leadership and stakeholders. Exceptional
interpersonal, communication, facilitation, and organizational abilities.

Narinder Nagra
VP of Brand & Communications, Mission Group

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

As a member of the Kelowna business community, I am deeply committed to fostering economic growth, community vibrancy, and collaboration within our region. Joining the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors would provide a welcome opportunity to nurture this commitment and make a meaningful impact on our business community.

With over a decade of experience in brand strategy, corporate communications, government relations, partnership negotiations, and community engagement, I bring a unique perspective on connecting businesses with people in a way that drives trust, growth, and innovation. Most recently my work has focused on shaping our region as a fertile ground for economic and population growth while positioning Mission Group to be part of the collective stewarding this unprecedented growth. I believe expertise in branding and storytelling can support the Chamber's mission to promote local businesses, strengthen partnerships, and enhance the quality of life in our region.

Serving on the board would allow me to champion collaboration by helping to bridge the gap between industries and foster connections that contribute to our thriving local economy. As I have a pulse on the Okanagan's dynamic market, I am well-positioned to advocate for local businesses. In my role at Mission Group, I help steer initiatives that support businesses in enhancing their resilience and growth. Finally, as someone passionate about community storytelling, I am committed to helping Kelowna shine on a provincial, national, and global stage as a vibrant hub for business, culture, and innovation.

Shane Spraggs
Partner, Future of Productivity

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

Kelowna is my home, and I want to give back to the community that’s supported me throughout my career. Joining the Chamber Board feels like the right step at the right time. Not only is it an opportunity to expand my contributions locally, but it’s also a chance to grow personally by gaining board experience and collaborating with a group of dedicated leaders.

I’ve spent my career helping businesses succeed, and I know that connections and community are the foundations of that success. Whether it’s founding and scaling companies or supporting organizations through strategic planning, I’ve built a reputation for fostering meaningful relationships and creating environments where people thrive. As a thought leader in remote and hybrid work, I also bring expertise that can help Chamber members adapt to today’s evolving workplace challenges.

Since joining the Chamber with Future of Productivity, I’ve seen the incredible work being done to connect and empower businesses. I’m eager to contribute to that momentum and play a role in making Kelowna’s business community stronger than ever.

I’ve spent more than 25 years solving complex business challenges and leading teams to deliver real results. My journey began with the founding of Acro Media, a local web development company that grew into a multimillion-dollar operation. At Disney Online Studios, I transformed how projects were managed, increasing delivery rates from 4% to 85%. Later, as CEO of Virtira Consulting, I built a stronger, more cohesive team, doubling employee satisfaction by improving communication and aligning everyone around clear, actionable goals.

One of my key strengths is strategic planning. I excel at seeing the big picture, creating actionable plans, and ensuring they’re executed effectively. I’m highly organized, skilled at motivating people, and deeply invested in helping others succeed. I’ve also worked extensively in the Kelowna community, from mentoring emerging leaders to co-founding the Okanagan Product & Project Management Group (OPMG), which had over 800 members at its height.

The Chamber is built on connections, and I thrive in bringing people together. My focus will be on creating value for the membership—whether by sharing my expertise in remote work and business productivity or championing initiatives that drive real, measurable impact.

Jessica Samuels
Owner, Hub Office Furniture

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

I am motivated to join the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for a few reasons. My personal and professional driving force is to do some good. Since moving to Kelowna in 2005, I have channeled that force into guiding my career and volunteer efforts. During the past 20 years, I have focused my time and skills in the areas that resonate deeply with me. Now, as a small business owner, I am passionate about turning my energies to championing business and economic growth in our region. The Kelowna Chamber Board is highly respected, and I would be delighted to represent the Chamber and its vision of shaping a strong, sustainable, and diverse economy in the central Okanagan. I believe in the importance of innovation, collaboration, and connection to foster positive change and contribute to initiatives that benefit our local economy. By joining the board, my goal is to contribute to initiatives that enhance our local economy and create lasting benefits. 

Rhona Stanislaus
Senior Manager, KPMG

I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over 15 years of experience in senior financial
and operational roles. My experience lies in financial management, business development,
strategic planning, corporate finance and advisory services. I am excited about the
opportunity to continue to contribute to the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, collaborating
with dedicated individuals who share a commitment to our community's growth and success.

June 2024 - Present: Director & Finance Committee Chair - Kelowna Chamber of Commerce
Former volunteer - Kelowna Chamber Finance Committee, Member of Kelowna General
Hospital Foundation Cabinet Committee, Former Director & Treasurer - Dress for Success
Kelowna, Former Director Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce

Curtis Tarapaski
Senior Director, Construction, Cairo Development

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

My core values align with my company’s – Ambitious, Competent, Respectful, Engaged, and Supportive. Serving on the board gives me and our company a greater opportunity to get involved and foster existing relationships while developing new ones for the benefit of the business community. Dedicating my time to the Chamber also allows a greater understanding of the social fabric in which Kelowna is comprised of.

Please detail your experience in the areas of leadership, business planning (finance, strategic, long-term) and community involvement.

Primarily, my leadership experience has been 25 years in the construction industry leading teams for a number of years in the execution of projects in Alberta and British Columbia. I have also been involved in the past with numerous sporting associations, most recently in 2020 for minor hockey in Edmonton, Alberta where I participated as assistant coach. I was committed to helping players achieve their goals on and off the ice.

Derek Gratz (Chair-elect by acclamation)
Assoc. Director University Industry Liaison Office, UBC Okanagan

Patrick Bobyn (Vice-Chair-elect by acclamation)
Partner, Pushor Mitchell, LLP

Treena Piva (Secretary-elect by acclamation)
Manager of Operations, Real Property Management

Why do you want to be a Director on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors?

Having been born and raised in Saskatchewan, I have always subscribed to the rural way of life: work hard, be honest, and get involved. For 25 years and through a wide variety of entrepreneurial career experiences, I have consistently been an active member of my community whether by volunteering, or professional positions that focus on strategic community planning and involvement.

Four years ago, my husband and I relocated our family to Kelowna with the sole purpose of launching our business in Kelowna. We did our research, and strategically chose Kelowna. We were convinced Kelowna was a perfect balance of big city savvy and small-town connection, making it an ideal environment for us to personally and professional thrive. As a small business owner, I am keenly aware of the challenges, frustrations, achievements, and celebrations involved in running a business - particularly in the demographic of Kelowna. I want to be a part of, and contribute to, the evolution of a thriving business community. Serving on the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce is an ideal venue for me to exercise this combination of perspective, experience, ambition and intention. 

Please detail your experience in the areas of leadership, business planning (finance, strategic, long-term) and community involvement. 

For over two decades, my volunteer and professional career has awarded me a wide range of opportunities to develop my leadership tendencies and strategic skill sets. I have had significant experience with strategic planning, policy development, and coordinating projects that involve complex levels of organization, communications, and compliance. My experience as an Executive Director for profit and not-for-profit organizations have given me experience in budget preparation, human resource management, long term strategic planning, finance and budgeting, and process development. As an entrepreneur, I have exercised each of these skill sets and experiences, all which has translated into being a successful business owner and a committed community volunteer.