Meet Elena Tostenson. She is one of those fortunate people that can say that she is born and raised in Kelowna!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
It’s impossible to decide on just one person! I’d have to say, my husband, Craig and my family. My favourite time is when all of my kids are under one roof.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Pharmasave Glenmore! I might be a little biased but we work hard to make it the best community pharmacy in town. But aside from our store, I would have to say I love the Bohemian Cafe! It’s a great local place to get a healthy breakfast or lunch.
Describe yourself in one word.
Loyal.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would say Italy. I am lucky to have family there that I would love to visit again.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love hiking the Apex trail at Knox Mountain, followed by a coffee at one of our local coffee houses. Giobean, Bliss Bakery and the BreadCo are three of my favourites!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Oh, that’s easy… Accidentally setting off the fire alarm in a hotel with an overcooked bag of microwave popcorn! The whole hotel was evacuated!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I am very proud to have reached and maintained my weight loss goals with our Pharmasave Glenmore Ideal Protein program. What has been even more inspiring is seeing the changes in the health and wellness of my weight loss clients. They inspire me every day!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I have so many but the first one that comes to mind is spending hot summer evenings at Strathcona beach with a family picnic of A&W root beer and a bucket of chicken!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
My husband Craig and I support many local charities and organizations, such as Central Okanagan Hospice Association, Variety Boat for Hope, Kelowna Catholic Schools, local neighbourhood schools, local minor sports teams, as well as OC Basketball. We also love to be involved in community charity runs such as BMO Marathon, Giants Head Grind, and CIBC Run for the Cure.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
The impact that mental illness and addictions have on individuals, families and the community as a whole. I would like to see the stigma around these issues removed, through raising awareness, as well as improved services to support these individuals.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I like to take a walk along Brandt’s Creek Linear Park on my way to and from work every day. This is my quiet time as I prepare for or wind down from my day.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
The growth of linear parks and green spaces for people to enjoy. With the rapid growth of our city, I think it is important to have a plan to create more of these spaces for future generations.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
We are blessed with a beautiful city, with four beautiful seasons and lakes and mountains surrounding us, making it a year-round recreational area.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. I have always wanted to travel across Canada
2. I have also wanted to learn how to two-step for quite some time; if only I could convince my husband
3. I’ve always wanted to take a trip to Australia
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
My first language was Italian. My parents are from Italy and were still learning English when I was born. Also, prior to opening our business, I was a teacher for 13 years with School District 23.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook, Instagram or to contact me about our Pharmasave Glenmore weight loss program, e-mail info@pharmasavekelownaweightloss.com.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Pharmasave Glenmore.
Why did you get into/start this business?
We opened our first Pharmasave 20 years ago to promote health and wellness in our community. Starting our Pharmasave Glenmore weight loss clinic has been the first thing I have done that has given me the same satisfaction as I had when I used to teach.
What is the goal of your business?
Pharmasave is Canada’s community pharmacy, committed to providing exceptional service, value, quality health and wellness choices to our community. Craig and I are proud to be Pharmasave owners, as this connection to the community is very important to us.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or life?
Finding enough time in the day to do all that I want to do and accomplish!
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would not change a thing. I believe that everything we do in life sets us on our path. Challenges and hard times lead to growth and strength that help shape who we are.
What do you always find yourself saying?
To my dieters. 'No BLTS’s: No bites, licks, tastes or sips!'
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
'Live each day to the fullest!'
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My little sister, Catia. She lives in Victoria so I don’t get to see her as often as I would like to!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
As a local business owner, I understand the value in supporting individuals in your community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising our three kids. I am very proud of all three of them and their accomplishments.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Nica Graziotto! She is so committed to our community. She works for Central Okanagan Hospice Association and is the owner of Artisto Gelato.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Tara Brushinsky from Close to Home.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I would like to thank KelownaNow for offering the opportunity to share a little bit about myself and our business. I would also like to thank the community for supporting us in business for over 20 years!
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 for the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great.
