Meet Hillary Schell. She was born and raised in Kelowna.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My partner, Joel, because he makes me laugh and very happy in general!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I would say my favourite Kelowna stores would be Opus Art Supply, the Bean Scene on Pandosy, and BNA Brewing.
Describe yourself in one word.
Enthusiastic. Especially about art, beer, and the ocean.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would go to Hawaii to go whale watching, it’s humpback season!
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love fishing!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
It’s so hard to pick a winner here but probably when I met my favourite band, Young the Giant at the time, and turned to the lead guitarist and asked 'What do you do?' He responded 'play the guitar?' I still shudder thinking about it.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Again, it’s hard to pick, but probably anytime I’ve seen a whale while whale watching or fishing!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Going to Tofino with my family, it’s my favourite place in the world!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
My favourite charity in Kelowna is Hope Outreach. I was a volunteer for a summer between semesters and they do amazing work with supporting and protecting Kelowna’s homeless population! Right now I try and do 'Weirddoods for Nice Doods' whenever I have time on alternate orders, where two dollars from every item I sell goes to a charity I am passionate about.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
It would be to solve the issue of climate change, particularly, ocean acidification. The ocean is so vital to not only the survival of our species but for all species. I know that no one is perfect and we all contribute to climate change every day by just existing. I think it is important to recognize the impacts of our individual behaviour so that we can make decisions to help limit our environmental footprint and work to improve the current infrastructure to build toward a sustainable future.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
The Bean Scene on Pandosy. That coffee shop is the cosiest home away from home and I feel so comfortable there while doodling.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see Kelowna work to become more sustainable and to also work on social programs that remove barriers and stereotypes surrounding the homeless population.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Kelowna is a gorgeous city that is full of creativity and inspiring people who are supportive of each other. My family, friends, and peers inspire me every day!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Swim with a whale in the wild, I dream about this all the time
2. Professionally brew my own beer recipe
3. See as much of the world as possible
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I know pretty much every word in the show The Office.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram is always my go to!
What is the name of your business/organization?
Weirddoods.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I was feeling bold one day and decided to post my doodles on Instagram, and it organically developed from there!
What is the goal of your business?
To inspire people to embrace their weird side because it is your quirks that make you unique and wonderful, and the world is a better place because of all of our differences. Being the same is boring!
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I struggle with anxiety but the more I have opened up about it, the more I realize that so many people struggle with mental health issues and not only am I not alone, but I am more empathetic and understanding because of it.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
The same because everything I’ve done, both right and wrong, has taught me lessons and has brought me here.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'STAY WEIRD!'
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Be your weird and wonderful self! It’s harder than you think and if you don’t know who you are, then spend some time getting to know yourself, whether it is through art or any other form of self-expression. Don’t be so hard on yourself.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
The Dalai Lama.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
When you shop locally, you are supporting a member of the community’s dream, while also limiting your carbon footprint, and as a bonus, you also know where the products or produce is coming from! It’s a win-win-win!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Right now, it has been the opportunity to illustrate a book for Touchwood Publishing!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Makeup artist, Hannah Schell. Probably a little biased because she’s my sister but Hannah has always been an incredible supporter and has also been absolutely killing it as a makeup artist. It is not an easy field to make it in, but her talent and knowledge are incredible.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Hannah Schell.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
MAKE ART! It makes me sad when people tell me that 'they wish they were artistic' because THEY ARE! I believe everyone is creative and has their own unique style and medium. I named my art account 'Weirddoods' because I thought they were 'weird doodles' and no one would like them. Sharing your art is scary but the feedback I have received since posting my work makes me want to encourage everyone else to do the same and share their weird side with the world too.
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.
