Meet Bobi! Bobi was born in Kelowna, grew up in Armstrong and moved back here to the Okanagan eight years ago. She enjoys being outdoors in nature and spending quality time with her partner & bestfriend, Manny.
Photo Credit: Bobi McGrath
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Born in Kelowna, but I'd consider Armstrong my hometown. I moved there when I was 12 and returned in 2011 at 19.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My partner Manny. We've been best friends for half my life, and I'm only sometimes sick of him (haha). But really, we're comfortable and happy doing anything together.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I enjoy shopping for my stomach, so my favourite place would have to be The Little Hobo. Even if the food wasn't good, the service makes it my favourite place—but luckily, the food is also the best in Kelowna!
Describe yourself in one word.
Thoughtful.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
South East Asia. So much good cheap food. I've got so many more things to try.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking. Anything outside. It's beautiful here.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
My whole braces and headgear phase.
Photo Credit: Bobi McGrath
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Having both my parents pass away in the same year with so many unfulfilled wishes pushed me even more to go for my dreams. It may not be a happy inspiring story, but it's effective.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Spending the summers at my grandparent's at a campground—swimming in the pool, playing cards with my grandma, and amusing myself by rollerblading around or reading books in the sun.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer at the Kelowna Community Theatre. I love seeing the excitement of people coming to a show and the live music! Also, I give to Paws it Forward (I'm a sucker for dogs) but I'm supportive of any animal cause I see.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Less division. For everyone to realize we are all just humans surviving on the same spaceship called Earth. We can believe different things and still be kind.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Cedar Creek Park, but I'd probably bring my dogs too.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
Less homelessness—we need affordable and especially pet friendly housing. Animals can help people so much with their mental and physical health. I could go on and on about this.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
There is so much to do here. From the outdoors, to delicious places to eat and drink. You don't have to go far.
Photo Credit: Bobi McGrath
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Drive across Canada.
2. Backpack the Great Divide Trail.
3. Read the top 100 greatest novels. (thegreatestbooks.org)
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I've got a dark sense of humour. You won't offend me.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook facebook.com/bobirmt
What is the name of your business/organization?
Ascent Therapy
Why did you get into/start this business?
I like to help people and am interested in science and the human body. I'd also consider myself an organized ambitious person, so starting my own clinic and having more control over my work/life is exactly what I want and love.
What is the goal of your business?
The goal is to help people experience their lives as pain free as possible, physically and mentally.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Figuring out what I want and how to get there. Taking risks and pushing my comfort zone to be a person I'm proud of. I'm a perfectionist and my own worst critic. There's probably some imposter syndrome there.
Photo Credit: Bobi McGrath
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
Very little I would do different. Even when you make a mistake, it helps you grow. If you didn't make that mistake in the past, you probably would sooner or later. It's the best way to learn.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Perfect!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Do the hard things.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Bill Gates. He's one of the nerdiest, humbly rich, caring and overall coolest person there is.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Spread the love to your neighbours so we can all continue to live here and enjoy the Okanagan!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Starting and learning how to run and grow a business by myself (and Google).
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My grandpa Ray! His love, support and strength is the best.
Photo Credit: Bobi McGrath
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Josh Tjaden. Owner of Custom Culture (www.customculture.shop)
Some general comments I would like to share are:
"So It Goes"
― Kurt Vonnegut, Slaughterhouse-Five
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!
