Meet Mandy Gunn! Mandy has lived in Kamloops since 2013. She is a feisty woman who loves to hike and explore!
Photo Credit: Mandy Gunn
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I am from Nakusp, BC and I have lived in Kamloops since August 2013.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
This may be a lame answer, but my husband Jason. He is my sounding board and is stuck with me now hahaha.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Fratelli Foods, in downtown Kamloops. I love the authentic, Italian meats and cheeses. This family-run deli has the friendliest staff too, especially Mario.
Describe yourself in one word.
Feisty.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would like to go to Thailand and explore Asia. I'd like to experience another culture.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
I really enjoy all the hiking around Kamloops. I am lucky enough to live by Kenna Cartwright park and I regularly hike that hill.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I'm a goofy girl, so pretty much do something embarrassing to myself on a daily basis. I've learned to laugh at myself and just roll with it though. I don't get embarrassed easily.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Last February I was able to go to Florida with my coworkers to the Transitions Academy. While we were there, we got to see an inspirational speaker, Mel Robbins. She talked about the 5-second rule. Listening to her really inspired me to look inward and recognize some of my flaws. It really showed me how to grow.
Photo Credit: Mandy Gunn
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
When my mother told me she was pregnant with my sister. I was 9 at the time and I remember looking at her belly and thinking how special it was that she was growing a little friend for me to play with.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Our office does a quarterly pro bono night in conjunction with the Mustard Seed community. I have also participated in the MS Walk with our office.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
If I could, I would change the way women see each other. Instead of seeing each other as competition, I wish we would see each other as sisters. I think the world would be a much kinder place.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
When I want some time alone, I head to Gold's Gym, throw on my headphones and tune out the world
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
More children's activities like parks and recs programs. In the summer, some arts and crafts programs and more activities for low-income people.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The people! I am from a small, friendly town and when I moved to Kamloops, I found the integration so easy because everyone I encountered was so friendly. Even though Kamloops is a sizeable city, it still has a small-town feel.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
To drive across Canada and see all of our beautiful country. To go to the Yukon to see the northern lights, and to go to Egypt to see the pyramids.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I didn't really get into fitness until I was in my thirties.
Photo Credit: Mandy Gunn
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Through Instagram, my handle is upsidedown_optician or through Facebook as Mandy Gunn.
What is the name of your business/organization?
I am an ophthalmic assistant at Nicola Eye Care Optometry.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I wanted a job that I could feel good about and have a purpose in. I really enjoy helping people to select frames that will both help them to see better and look better. It is very rewarding.
What is the goal of your business?
To provide the highest level of eye care and eye care services to all of our patients each and every time.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Not a struggle but I am always aware of my actions and am trying to become a more patient person. In personal life and in business. I am learning not to panic when a problem can't be solved right away.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Son of a nutcracker!" When you have a 7-year-old, your swearing can be a bit interesting.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Take the leap, don't let fear stop you!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Michelle Obama.
Photo Credit: Mandy Gunn
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Local shops have local flavour! I like to spend my money locally so that money stays in the community and I enjoy meeting people in the community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My daughter, Alyssa of course.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Amanda Hall, she just opened her own business called Soul Stones. Another wonderful local shop to check out.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Amanda Hall.
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, Kamloops.
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!
