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. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Katy Williams.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and I’ve been making my way towards British Columbia ever since. I went to university and practiced law in Edmonton for a few years before taking the leap to Kelowna in 2012 to be closer to good skiing, good wine and amazing family. It was definitely a good decision.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family. My two little boys are always finding new and exciting ways to keep me on my toes. I get to tag along with them on all different kinds of great adventures like going to the beach, jumping on bouncy castles, and wine tastings. Only with my husband of course.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
My husband and I have been craving a trip to San Francisco and Napa Valley area to explore and do some wine touring followed up by camping in Yosemite National Park. That trip may not happen for a while, but it’s at the top of the list!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I would have to say my favourite local store in Kelowna is the Bean Scene Coffee Works. Even beyond the necessary caffeine jolt during the work week, I spend a lot of time there. Whether it be picking up a coffee on my way to the park near Pandosy Street, warming up at the Big White location or letting the kids loose with the toys at the downtown and landmark shops. When I ask my son what he wants to do on the weekend, he often asks for a 'coffee date' to Bean Scene!
What is your favourite activity?
I love to build and create things. So, I am happiest when I am making something. Whether it be a home improvement project, kids’ halloween costume or artwork.
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
Definitely pizza. Given the option, I will always choose pizza.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I would say traveling has given me a lot of inspiration and perspective. Before settling down in Kelowna, I spent some time traveling to Africa, South America and Europe and it was such an amazing cultural experience. I found it very inspiring to see how people all around the world can live so differently and yet still have so much in common. Traveling has inspired me to try and improve the world in any way I can.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I have very fond memories of family road trips as a kid. Camping trips with roasting marshmallows and laying on picnic tables as the stars came out, a very classic Canadian summer. Along with, in the winter, ski trips during the holidays. Growing up in Saskatchewan, skiing required a pilgrimage to the mountains, but it was always well worth it!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I sit on the Board of Directors for Chamber Music Kelowna to help bring the community a concert series of incredibly talented and internationally-renowned musicians.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Traveling around the world has given me insight into how lucky I am to have been born in Canada. If I could change one thing in the world, it would be to ensure that everyone has the opportunity and means to have security and happiness.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Kelowna has so much to offer, it is tough to choose a favourite! I love to get out and enjoy the beautiful Okanagan weather with running, cycling and beach time in the summer and skiing up at Big White in the winter.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
A run in the Mission Creek or hike in Myra Bellevue would be my escape spot for peace and quiet.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I feel like Kelowna is moving in a very positive direction. With the UBCO campus expanding business and technology sectors, there is a very encouraging atmosphere of growth and opportunity in Kelowna right now. There are a number of exciting projects in the works that will have great impact on Kelowna’s image and appeal as a place to live and do business. I love that Kelowna has been able to develop and move forward while still preserving the recreational areas that make the city a wonderful place to live. I hope to see more growth, diversity and opportunity that come along with it.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
What’s not to love? To steal a line from my father:
'Kelowna is great because it’s got cycling in the summer, skiing in the winter, and red wine all year round!'
It is such a fabulous place to live and work. It really does have amazing amenities and outdoor recreation. Couple those things with all the festivals and events throughout the city, it is easy to keep busy and active in the community. It seems to have reached a real tipping point as far as the business community goes and it has growing opportunity for young professionals looking to set up shop here. There are many established family businesses that give Kelowna its unique character while still being accessible for new start-ups and businesses. Kelowna has a lot going for it now and into the future.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel as much as possible. There are so many wonderful places I have yet to see.
2. Ski in the Alps.
3. Hike in Nepal.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was licensed to fly airplanes before I was licensed to drive a car. I got my glider pilot and power pilot’s license in high school and spent many years flying recreationally.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Facebook.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Wills and Estates Law Group is the new business. We have recently launched in order to offer our clients expert advice in Wills and Estate planning and administration. We also work with our other law group businesses to provide our clients a broad range of legal services including business transactions and real estate purchases and sales.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I love working with clients to achieve their goals, whether it is having an estate plan in place for their peace of mind, starting a new business or buying or selling a home.
What is the goal of your business?
Our goal is to offer clients expert legal advice at a reasonable price so that everyone in our community has access to the advice they need to ensure that their interests are protected in all aspects of their life and business.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
As many parents will tell you, finding the right balance of work and family is always a challenge and what works best is different for everyone. I am very fortunate to work in an office that provides wonderful flexibility so I am able to achieve my career goals while also spending quality time with my two sons.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It is important to support our local businesses and the entrepreneurs who have gone out on a limb to bring their skills and services to the community. Business Law Group is a local business with roots in Kelowna and our community. As such, we recognize the importance of supporting other local business owners and preserving the character that makes Kelowna exceptional.
Give someone you think that deserves a shout out and explain why!
All of our staff at the office deserve a shout out for being so fabulous at their jobs and great to work with!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Andrew Gaucher of McKinley Beach.
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, Kelowna.
