Meet Alesia Willard! Alesia is from Vancouver Island but moved to Kamloops two years ago. She is an ambitious woman who loves to swim, hike, and act!
Photo Credit: A.C. Willard
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I grew up on Vancouver Island but I’ve lived all over Canada. I moved to Kamloops nearly two years ago now after spending 6 years in Saskatchewan.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My cousins. They’ve been so supportive in my life the last year, they’ve helped me so much. They’re my best friends and I’m so grateful to them for so much.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Castles & Cottages. They have so many gorgeous and unique pieces, I absolutely love them.
Describe yourself in one word.
Ambitious.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Japan. We grew up with exchange students from Japan and I’ve always loved their culture. I’ve always wanted to spend a year in Japan to truly take it all in.
Photo Credit: A.C. Willard
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Swimming at the lakes and hiking! The mountains are so beautiful and seeing the city views from the top is breathtaking!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Oh geez, where do I start? Probably the time I did a random gravity check in the middle of a restaurant. There was slush on the ground that I didn’t notice and fell face first in front of everyone.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
In 2018, I competed in the Ms. Canada Globe pageant. I won the title of Ms. Saskatchewan Globe and placed 3rd runner up in all of Canada. I met so many amazing and inspiring women at that pageant. Each one of them had a story to tell and I learned so much about them and myself from the experience!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
All the camping trips and road trips we’d take as a family! I’m the oldest of 5 so any family vacation was quite a big affair. My favourites were always the road trips we took from Vancouver Island to West Edmonton Mall. I’d be counting down the days for months in anticipation!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I work at Thompson Okanagan Community Services so I meet and work with all kinds of amazing people. I also assist in volunteering at a retirement home for their weekly Bingo game as well as serving hot lunches for the homeless.
Photo Credit: A.C. Willard
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I’d put an end to any inhumane treatment of animals. From animal abuse to horse slaughter – stricter punishments for those charged of abuse and neglect and stricter laws on importing and exporting live animals for consumption.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
The library! I love getting lost in the pages of a good book.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
Working to decrease or eliminate homelessness. There are many amazing programs to supply hot meals and beds to those who need them but it would be great if we could figure out a way to eliminate the problem altogether!
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
Aside from the views, the people. Kamloops has some of the most generous people I’ve ever met!
Photo Credit: AC Willard
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
– Travel to Japan.
– Land a big role in a feature film.
– Publish my book series.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I can wiggle my ears.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
You can follow me at ‘The Xtra-Ordinaries’ on Facebook or @Alesia_Carrie on Instagram!
Photo Credit: AC Willard
What is the name of your business/organization?
My book series, The Xtra-Ordinaries.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I’ve been working on this series for over 10 years now. Writings always been a huge passion of mine and the first book is scheduled for release on Amazon this year.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Not rushing. Everyone’s always in such a hurry to get from A to B. I have to remind myself to just slow down and enjoy the ride.
Photo Credit: A.C. Willard
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
As someone who’s struggled with body image most of my life, my best piece of advice is this: your value is not based on the size of your waist or your clothing size. You’re more than a thigh gap or defined abs. You’re a beautiful soul.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Local businesses are just families trying to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. Support locally every chance you get.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
It’s between winning Ms. Saskatchewan Globe 2018 and getting a small part in the new Hallmark film, Love in Winterland.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My cousins – for helping me through so much this past year! And my entire family, you’re my rock.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Chrissy.
Photo Credit: AC Willard
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I’ve lived in many places in my short 28 years on earth. From Ontario, Saskatchewan, and B.C. Of all of them, Kamloops is my favourite. It’s a community that truly accepts you and makes you feel like you’re home. From the mountains to the rivers to the kind souls that live here, it truly is the most beautiful place to live.
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. Thank you, Kamloops.
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!
