Young Leaders Recognized

Feb 19, 2019 | 10:24 AM

Laura Code and Brett Squair are among latest recipients of Top 20 Under 40 Award

The head of a pickleball equipment businesses, an agrologist, and a well known local musician are being recognized for their talents.

Cara Arding, Laura Code and Andrew Allen are among the latest recipients of the Top 20 under 40 award, presented by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce recognizing the next generation of local leaders under the age of 40.

KPMG, Community Futures, and City of Vernon-Economic Development are also sponsors.

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The third round of five recipients were selected among more than 60 nominations, and include:

Alexa Monahan – Director of marketing at Nature’s Fare Markets. Alexa is passionate about everything local, sustainable and organic, and believes the “purpose of business is to foster healthy communities and to be a force for positive change.” She is also a director with the Canadian Health Food Association and she
created the Brilliant Brains Bookclub to promote literacy among children in B.C.

Andrew Allen – Musician/director. Andrew’s do it yourself ability and optimistic attitude have served him well as he’s had five Top 10 hits in Canada, and he’s toured with Bruno Mars, One Republic and the Barenaked Ladies.
Allen has also supported numerous charities. “Understanding the gift of music and the joy it brings people, I’ve also volunteered to perform at Polson Extended Care, Hospice House and VJH.”

Cara Arding – Owner of Pickleball Depot. Over five years, Cara’s leadership and energy have turned Pickleball Depot into the largest multi-brand online retailer of pickleball equipment in Canada, and she has also created wholesale and manufacturing divisions. In terms of the community, Cara assisted Vernon’s
pickleball project and she supports pickleball organizations across Canada.

Brett Squair – Associate lawyer at Davidson Pringle. Called to the bar in 2017, Brett practices in the areas of business law, real estate and estate planning, and he’s committed to assisting his colleagues find success through training and social events. Brett is also a member of the B.C. Cattleman’s Association, a director with the North Okanagan Livestock Association and a director of the Sky Volleyball Club.

Laura Code – Regional agrologist with the Ministry of Agriculture. Laura’s love for agriculture developed as a child on a farm, and now she assists farmers and producer associations prepare for the future. Outside of her career, Laura has been involved with 4-H, and JCI locally, regionally and nationally. “I truly believe in the power of leading by example and mentoring people to become leaders.”

The final five recipients will be announced next Monday.

All recipients will be featured on the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce website and they will also be honoured at a special recognition event March 12 at Okanagan Spirits.

“It never ceases to amaze me the caliber of nominations received every year for Top 20 Under 40,” says Leigha Horsfield, general manager of Community Futures North Okanagan, which is a sponsor of the Top 20 Under 40. “All of the nominees demonstrate the qualities we need for the betterment of our community – passion,
entrepreneurialism, risk-taking, resilience and a compassion for those around them.”

For more info on the recipients, visit: www.vernonchamber.ca

by Corey Fischer