Meet Katy Suik. She grew up in Vanderhoof, lived in Saskatchewan for some time, travelled to Australia for a year and has called Prince George home for the last 12 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband. He's my best friend and we don't get enough time just the two of us.
What is your favourite local store in Prince George and why?
Shine Hair Salon. I love the energy of the place and I adore the owner, Jacki Collyer.
Describe yourself in one word.
Down-to-earth.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Back to Kauai, Hawaii to enjoy more snorkelling and exploring.
What is your favourite activity in Prince George?
Walking and running the many trails!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I constantly say expressions backwards. For instance, I once meant to say either 'we kicked butt' or 'wiped the record' but instead, I said: 'we wiped butt'. It was bad.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Training to be a professional life coach. Honestly, the training program changed my life and helped me to see things in a whole new way. I've never been the same since.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
It's difficult to narrow down one particular memory because I was blessed with a happy childhood. I was incredibly lucky to grow up in a home overlooking a lake in the countryside. My younger years are filled with memories of playing outside, swimming in the lake, playing with the neighbour kids, and entertaining guests with my gracious dancing skills in our living room.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
As a parent to three kids, I give back to the school when I can. When given the opportunity to lead and make an impact, I dive right in. I am also the current leader of The Best Life Network, a group of professionals who believe in the power of personal growth and transformation. We host monthly events called 'Connected Conversations' at Books & Co on the second Wednesday of each month. This fun and interactive event is meant to inspire people to explore specific topics around bettering ourselves and their lives. The event is always a huge success and I am proud of what our team has accomplished. We continue to meet and plan more ways to serve our community and bring value to those who are searching for a more meaningful and fulfilling life. And finally, as a speaker and facilitator, I offer public speaking and workshops at discounted or free prices to deliver value to not-for-profit organizations that I believe in. If I can inspire others to step up and be the best versions of themselves, then I am doing my job.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would have everyone pay a lot more attention to their innermost selves and what they can do to make this world a better place. My passion in helping others find their 'light', it is my way of eliminating darkness. Until we can all take full responsibility for our own choices, tap into our passions, move from thought to action and push for positive change, the world cannot change for the better. I believe in the power of self-awareness and self-love to cultivate a world where everyone has the opportunity to step into their potential. It's when we do this that we can make a difference.
Where would you sneak away to in Prince George to spend some time alone?
The Public Library, Second Cup or, again, the trails.
Where would you like to see positive change in Prince George and why?
I would love to see more people value themselves enough to invest in their potential and create meaningful change in the world they live in. Until we start within, nothing will ever change.
What do you think makes Prince George great?
The size, beautiful country, and people!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Return to Mount Maunganui in New Zealand and Sydney, Australia to revisit places and see the people I met nearly 20 years ago.
2. Fly in a helicopter and hot air balloon
3. Experience a volunteer trip in a third world country with my family
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
Unbeknownst to many, I am clinically deaf but if you think that stops me from pushing myself, think again. My 'disability' is really my ability to make a profound difference.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook and Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
KMS Life Coaching.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I love helping people get really clear about what they want and unpack and pursue their biggest dreams. It wasn't enough to do any job, I wanted to have a powerful impact.
What is the goal of your business?
To have a greater impact and become go-to for both personal and professional transformation in our community.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Building a business from scratch and teaching our community the value of personal and professional development.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I've learned powerful lessons which have made me better and stronger so I wouldn't change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'What you focus on grows' and 'choose wisely'
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
You are number one and the biggest obstacle is YOU and the thoughts you think. I can help you change that.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I'd have to say, someone who I admire and would love to learn from, my top two picks would be Carrie Green from the Female Entrepreneurship Association or Jen Sincero, #1 New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and success coach. But if I was to pick someone close to me, I would choose my sister who I only see once or twice a year.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
As a local business owner, I think it's critical to support others who are trying to support their families and contribute to the life and culture of the community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being in a business that is unconventional for seven years! And by unconventional, I mean, unique to Prince George.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Amy Hudson. She's a fellow entrepreneur and mom who also must work hard to make a difference and help people through money coaching. She volunteers, gives so much and deserves to be in the spotlight!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I love Prince George and I'm surrounded by amazing people, a beautiful country, and plenty of opportunities. One of my favourite business activities is connecting with new people and learning about their dreams, desires, challenges and goals. I'm always up for a coffee with anyone who shares my interest in personal development and change. I'm passionate about what I do and believe me, I get excited when I can help others nurture their own passions and create their own incredible results! It's a ripple of endless satisfaction.
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, Prince George.
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!
