Meet Albina, she has lived in Kelowna for more than 10 years. Albina is a local entrepreneur who owns The Artful Hand located in Orchard Park Shopping Centre.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My kids! Because they are fun, energetic, and teach me new things every day.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Probably 'Karmyc Bazaar', because I like their style of art.
Describe yourself in one word.
Creative
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Morocco, I would go to get inspiration.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Going on hikes!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I don't get embarrassed easily, I love and appreciate everything that happens to me.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
12 years ago, I went to a book signing event to meet my favourite author, Esther Hicks. I fell in love with her book "The Law of Attraction" and was very excited to meet her. When I gave her the book to sign, she asked me "what is your dream?" and when I didn't have an answer, I suddenly realized that I don't have one. Esther signed my book, and said to me, "Dream big!" It was a turning point in my life, her words inspired me to dare to grow. I was a housewife for so many years, and I needed a push to find myself. Esther's words gave it to me.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
When I used to live in Fort McMurray, I volunteered to paint Murals in local schools to add colour to the northern community. In Kelowna, I believe our store is a way of giving back to the community because we are a home for many local artists. We offer a safe place for artists to express themselves and share their art. I am currently working on an art project that will involve the community living in Kelowna and visiting it. I am hoping to have more information soon!
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would love to see a world without borders, so we can all travel freely from place to place and share our cultures.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I would go to Summerhill Winery.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My realization that my spirit will never die.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I visit Summerhill Winery to eat lunch and enjoy the amazing view there.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to bring art everywhere, especially street art, to make Kelowna unique. There are so many talented people here that need a place to express themselves. It could be amazing if the city will commision young artists to help them grow.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The young community, the lake and the atmosphere.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Travel all over the world.
- Go to the New York Fashion Week
- Visit the Louvre
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was born in Russia, but New Zealand is my home. I lived there for 7 years before moving to Canada.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Mostly through Facebook
What is the name of your business/organization?
The Artful Hand
Why did you get into/start this business?
I wanted to be a part of a creative business, that will allow me to grow as a business owner and for others to feed their creative appetite.
What is the goal of your business?
The goal of my business is to support people's creative hobbies and talents. to help them learn about their spiritual self through art.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
My main struggle was the language. English is my second language, it has been very hard for me to be able to express myself with words. Also remaining organized… so much paperwork!
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would probably do things the same. I let things be and go with what life offers.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Beautiful!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Be yourself 100%
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Camilla Franks, the clothing designer – she is an inspiration to me.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It's important to support your community because behind every product there is a person and a soul.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My kids, of course!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Hadar Kennedy, she has been managing my store for a few years now and also makes an impact in our community with her amazing artwork.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
The Poetry Elf! Skylah has been working with us for a year and a half and now has also been organizing the 'Poetry Burlesque' show, which is AMAZING!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Be Unique! Be Creative! Be Artful!
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!
