Greater Vernon Chamber (Image Credit: Liam Verster / Vernon Matters Staff)

By Liam Verster

Business Mentors

New Chamber Ambassador Program to help entrepreneurs get settled, make connections in Vernon

Feb 25, 2026 | 1:15 PM

Greater Vernon Chamber has launched an initiative to strengthen the local business network.

The new Chamber Ambassador Program will see a select group of dedicated local professionals to act as a “welcoming committee” who will mentor new members, facilitate introductions at networking events, and act as a bridge between the business community and chamber leadership. The program aims to ensure that every business owner feels connected to the resources they need to survive.

The chamber said the Vernon’s business landscape is growing and there is a need for a more personalized approach to member relations that could be met through the program.

“Our members are the heartbeat of this region,” Sonja Harkness, Executive Director of the Greater Vernon Chamber, said.

“The ambassador program is about building a culture of support. We want to ensure every person who joins the chamber has a dedicated peer to help them navigate our resources and maximize their investment.”

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The group of ambassadors consists of Ben and Niki Drodge of A.M.I. clothing; Marc Fisher of Let’s Talk Communications; Robb Lacey of Unity and Light Electrical Services; Ginny Scott of The Rise Golf Resort; Sarah Smith of Sarah Smith Media; and Susan Smith of Lux Jewels.

Left to right: Sonja Harkness, Ginny Scott Rise, GVC Membership Manager Kevin Rothwell, Sarah Smith, Robb Lacey, Suman Smith, Ben Drodge, Niki Drodge. (Image Credit: Greater Vernon Chamber)