Investors
Camille Saltman
General Partner
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Camille Saltman
Co-founder & GP,
Okanagan WMAN
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Camille Saltman moved to Kelowna in 2016, after 20 years in San Diego, where she led two successful tech companies - the first in digital health and second in bio-composites – as well as the business accelerator CONNECT, credited with building San Diego’s leadership as one of the top tech clusters in the world.
She is an award-winning entrepreneur who now invests her time in community building. She is co-founder and General Partner of OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) and since returning to Canada has co-founded the bio-composites manufacturing company INCA Renewable Technologies and built the entrepreneurship@UBC Accelerator for the University of British Columbia, Okanagan campus (UBCO). She is also Chair of the Board of the Kelowna Art Gallery.
While in San Diego, Camille founded Wireless Life Science Alliance, CleanTECH San Diego and San Diego Sport Innovators to help the region build leading technology clusters in these fields. She also served as Vice Chair of the San Diego Telecom Council (EvoNexus) and on the board of BIOCOM, California’s pharmaceutical and biotech trade organization and headed their digital health initiative.
While recruiting talent to the region, she realized how important it was for San Diego to offer not only a vibrant tech hub but also sophisticated arts and culture to compete with cities like San Francisco and Boston. As a board member, she convened regular Innovation Nights, to introduce the tech community to globally recognized La Jolla Music Society and La Jolla Playhouse - which has originated 36 Broadway blockbusters including Jersey Boys, Come From Away, The Who’s Tommy, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Cry Baby, Memphis, Peter and the Starcatcher, Zhivago and more.
Prior to moving to Kelowna, Camille was President of MD Revolution, a remote chronic care management platform. The company was acquired by CoachCare to create the largest remote care platform in the U.S., now called MD Revolution: A CoachCare Company. In the early years of the company’s growth, she was not able to attract interest from venture capitalists (VCs) but instead raised $10M from angel investors who understood the potential after building successful companies in chronic disease treatment. Camille went on to become President & CMO of Malama Composites, the first company to develop a full line of green rigid urethane foams. There she found traction from strategic investment partners who better understood the technical benefits of Malama’s products.
Out of these experiences she saw the value of a strong angel investment network. In Kelowna she first applied her experience to help university-spawned ventures from UBCO with capital and mentors. While in that role, she witnessed the gap faced by women entrepreneurs who were receiving bank loans and grants but also struggling to land equity investment from VCs. When Camille discovered that globally women land less than 2% of VC funding, she decided to establish OKGN WMAN to help fill that gap. The group has since assembled 60 women investors across three funds.
To help build a talent pipeline for the climate tech field, Camille co-authored “Turning Biomass into Business” for the STEM textbook BioProducts, now published in its second edition by De Gruyter. In 2023 she was recognized as one of Canada’s Game Changers: Leading Companies. Powered by Women, by Natural Products Canada and she and her team at INCA also won the global JEC World Startup Products & Materials Award.
As a result of her contributions in San Diego, Camille is a recipient of the YWCA Spirit of Commitment Award, the San Diego Performing Arts League STAR Award, the YWCA Tribute to Women and Industry Award, the US Department of Commerce Economic Development Award for Creation of Regional Innovation Clusters, and the Science and Technology Institute Economic Development Award for Building Entrepreneurial Capacity, among others.
Sherri Faloon
General Partner
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Sherri Faloon
Co-founder & GP,
Okanagan WMAN
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Sherri Faloon is one of the General Partners and founding members of OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN). She has enjoyed a long career in the software industry working for IBM and Cognos in several senior management roles within the technical, support, sales, product development, information technology (IT), and finance organizations.
Sherri studied economics and math in university, but buying her first personal computer and learning to program shortly after graduating cemented her interest in technology. She joined Cognos when it was a relatively small Ottawa-based software company, starting a shift into business intelligence and performance management products.
Sherri quickly moved into management where she worked in numerous roles across the organization. There were some challenging years in the tech industry, but Cognos experienced a strong steady growth and was acquired by IBM in 2008 for $5B, representing the largest buyout in IBM’s history at that time.
Sherri considers herself a strong generalist and adept at operations management, building strong practices and process for the business while remaining agile, efficient, and profitable. In many of her areas of responsibility, she was able to identify opportunities for improvement and optimization of vendor agreements, resulting in significant savings for the company.
Passionate about delivering an exceptional customer experience, she helped shape and expand Cognos’ highly regarded customer service organization and was recognized with a corporate leadership award for her role as Director of Global Customer Support for Cognos.
Since retiring from the technology industry, Sherri has consulted in customer service and volunteered for various organizations, in addition to providing business guidance through mentorship upon moving to Kelowna in 2018.
“I was surprised to see what a well-developed innovation ecosystem there was in the Okanagan. As a relatively small tech community, it was easy to get to know what was happening, to learn from others, and just meet and interact with some very talented individuals. Being a mentor seemed like a natural way to offer some of my “lessons learned” to help others navigating the many facets of running a successful business.”
Sherri has been a mentor with the University of British Columbia, Okanagan’s Entrepreneurship program for over four years and mentored with the Kelowna Women in Business organization. She also recently joined as a mentor/Ghost Board member working with SheBoot, a women-led bootcamp for women-led scalable technology or tech-enabled businesses.
Sherri joined OKGN WMAN as a General Partner and worked as one of the founding members to determine the strategy and goals for the initial fund.
“I am thrilled to be part of an initiative that encourages more women to pull up a chair to the investor table in a collaborative, learn-by-doing fund model. Starting a business can be daunting, but having access to funding and mentorship through the collective experience of 30+ successful businesswomen and entrepreneurs will make a big difference for early-stage startups in the Okanagan region. I believe our focus on female founders and leaders will not only help to level the playing field but lead to more game-changing ideas making it to market, and an increase in women-led business in general.”
Sherri finds it motivating to be with like-minded women who are keen to invest in other women or companies that are making a difference in their communities and beyond. Working through due diligence, the team gets to dig in and analyze a business’s potential which Sherri finds incredibly interesting and another way to learn from others with different experiences and expertise.
In addition to investing through OKGN WMAN, Sherri has also participated in Accelerate Okanagan’s annual Angel Summit. Her other interests include skiing, hiking, and all forms of outdoor adventure. She also has a keen interest in health and wellness and a certificate in Natural Nutrition.
Carollynn Schafer, LLB
General Partner
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Carollynn Schafer, LLB
Co-founder & GP,
Okanagan WMAN
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Carollynn Shafer is a co- founder and general partner of OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN). In the past, she has acted as the interim Chief Executive Officer of Accelerate Okanagan, a board director for the Okanagan Angel Summit and was the 2022 fund manager for the Summit.
Carollynn began angel investing after participating in the first year of the Okanagan Angel Summit. Her passion for angel investing is as much about supporting the entrepreneur’s idea to solve a problem, as it is about supporting the entrepreneur themselves. Carollynn finds that entrepreneurs and their passion provide her with inspiration and motivation to make things better.
Coming from an entrepreneurial family and being introduced to the start-up world by her husband, Lance, through his many ventures, Carollynn has experienced a lot of the ups and downs of an entrepreneur’s journey, which provides her with a unique appreciation for its benefits and challenges. “Entrepreneurs show up every day in so many different circumstances, many difficult,” says Carollynn. “They must continually learn and adapt to new and different situations. The successful ones face their opportunities and challenges with optimism and resilience.”
Carollynn sees a discrepancy in how many women are involved in angel investing and is very committed to introducing more women to this fulfilling type of investing. She has found that women enjoy angel investing because they are supporting the success of someone else, and that is meaningful. “Women are much more confident investing when the business they are considering aligns with their own expertise and values. Finding that fit is important,” she says.
For herself as an angel investor, Carollynn finds that entrepreneurs value her ability to review cap tables, provide feedback on due diligence, and offer context and support in connecting with legal advisors.
When she’s not guiding entrepreneurs in the OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) through their legal and funding needs, you’ll find Carollynn enjoying Okanagan sports with her family or writing.
Karen Christiansen, FCPA, FCA, CPA, CA
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Karen Christiansen, FCPA, FCA, CPA, CA
OKGN WMAN Investor;
Retired Partner, MNP
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Karen Christiansen recently retired as a partner at MNP, the accounting and professional services firm, where she worked in the Private Enterprise arena. She is a General Partner of OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) and an investor in both Fund 1 and 2.
Growing up in the city of Lloydminster, AB, Karen had the importance of volunteering instilled in her by her parents. Once she reached her adult years and began making her own choices, she made sure volunteering remained an important part of both her professional and personal goals.
Professionally, Karen aimed to become a chartered accountant in public practice and a partner in a major firm, both of which she achieved with speed and efficiency.
After graduating from UBC Vancouver in 1989 and then achieving her chartered accountant designation in 1992, Kelowna was at the top of Karen’s list to practice and live in. She says it’s a vibrant city and was more affordable than Vancouver, even in 1993. Because the city is driven by owner-managers of many small-and-medium-sized businesses, Karen could see herself building an amazing private enterprise accounting and business advisory practice in the region.
Karen found a job at a firm in Kelowna, previously called Snowsell Jennens and Carter. The firm is now part of MNP, another triple-barrelled name derived from Meyers Norris Penny, which is now one of the largest full-service chartered accountancy and business advisory companies in Canada.
Thanks to her passion, by 1996 Karen became partner in the firm. Her business advisory practice covered tax structure, strategic, compliance, estate, and succession planning.
Karen’s contributions were recognized by her peers and she was granted an Early Achievement Award in 2002. She was nominated as a Fellow of the Profession in 2013.
While launching her practice, Karen also started volunteering in earnest. Her first involvement was with the Central Okanagan Red Cross in 1993, which was in danger of closing. The organization was having a difficult time finding volunteers and board members, especially someone with a finance background. Karen joined, put her skills to work, and was successful in helping save the branch in Kelowna.
Following her work with the Red Cross, Karen joined the United Way board. As campaign chair in 2003, she led a campaign that successfully raised $775K to help numerous charities under the United Way umbrella.
Karen also served on the Kelowna General Hospital (KGH) board over a number of fast-paced and rewarding years. From 2010-12, the UBC Okanagan teaching hospital at KGH was built; fundraising to help outfit the new Centennial Building addition outstripped the $5M goal to reach $7.4M; and KGH became a world-class regional hospital.
All the while, Karen was taking on roles of increasing responsibility with the Chartered Professional Accountants of B.C. She was one of the chairs, while undergoing their biggest successful merger, bringing chartered accountants, certified general accountants, and certified management accountants together under one designation – something that been attempted before but not achieved. Thanks to a lot of open mindedness and collaboration between the three bodies, Karen says the signing of the first joint venture that outlined the details was a ground breaking and rewarding milestone.
Additionally, Karen moderated the Okanagan roundtables for the Chartered Professional Accountants of B.C., gathering input to help the provincial government make future decisions. She was also the face of the Okanagan economic updates, generated annually by the Chartered Professional Accountants of B.C.
“I feel strongly about the importance of creating a business world that enhances opportunities for women. Years ago, there were no organizations specifically to help women-led enterprises shine and grow. It feels terrific to help with that in any way I can. As well, the opportunity to learn is a fantastic way for me to grow as a person and professional. I am grateful for the network of magnificent women who are a part of both Funds 1 and 2. Each meeting I come away with new learning and understanding. It is awesome!” she says.
Anne Marie Kirby
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Anne Marie Kirby
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Anne Marie kicked off a long career in information technology (IT) after taking one of the first information systems education programs in Northern B.C. After graduating she wore many IT hats in the hospital information systems industry, from programmer to software architect.
On that journey, she discovered her passion - revolutionizing health and performance to help people live healthier and happier lives. Over the next 18 years, she built a global software company called CoreHealth Technologies to help corporations achieve that mission for their employees. She has recently exited after successfully selling the company and now has two start-ups currently on the go. Both new businesses are based on needs she uncovered while serving the corporate health and wellness space.
Anne Marie is unique, not only as a female founder and Chief Executive Officer with a technical background but also in her ability to run a profitable business without raising or borrowing money. She also stands out for her ability to build a successful business in health and prevention where many have tried but not succeeded.
Her biggest challenge was proving Return on Investment (ROI) on prevention - essentially charging a fee for what didn’t happen to employees who were using the program. Proving that you’ve saved an employer money through prevention of disease, accidents or missed time at work is a tough value proposition. “I could have become richer much faster if I’d built something that wasn’t so good for you!” she laughingly says today.
Today Anne Marie’s up-and-coming businesses still fulfill her personal purpose of improving health and performance and proving positive health outcomes. She is currently running research projects at multiple Canadian universities to invent data-driven health measurement devices and tools that measure physical and mental health to prove ROI.
When asked what challenges she has faced as a female entrepreneur, Anne Marie admits the biggest is yet to come as her next business will depend on a significant financial raise to take the product from the lab to commercialization.
Family, angel investors, and government grants have supported the two products thus far, but there is a clear gap in support of the steps required to prove profitability. In fact, because of how significant the challenge is, Anne Marie has decided to shelve one of the products to focus on the other.
Anne Marie became interested in angel investing for a range of reasons: as an entrepreneur who now needs to learn how to raise money; as a successful businessperson who wants to learn how to invest money; as a student at the school of hard knocks willing to share her many lessons with anyone interested; and finally, to build a network of like-minded and saavy women.
Anne Marie wants to help support other female entrepreneurs like herself who are solving real problems, primarily with technology.
“I appreciate leaders who represent clarity, honesty, and passion for their vision while being open to listening and considering suggestions from others who have been there before them,” she says.
After struggling for many years building a sales funnel in a tough market, she loves to learn about different types of markets and how to best position products in them. She is particularly interested in businesses that have either a unique solution or value proposition.
Barb Marcolin, PhD
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Barb Marcolin, PhD
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Dr. Barbara Marcolin joined the Faculty of Management at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan campus in July 2012, having taught systems perspectives for 17 years at the University of Calgary, Alberta, and the Richard Ivey School of Business, Western University, Ontario.
From 2003 to 2010, Barbara practiced information technology (IT) research in high tech entrepreneurial companies in Saint John, New Brunswick as Research Director and Privacy Officer managing technology research and IP/patents.
As Research Director with Kinek, she was responsible for technical software research for web-based component development products. In addition, she oversaw trending research for a variety of new product developments.
Barbara’s research focuses on both individual level use and business level technology value. She studies user competence, web interactivity, fast features, outsourcing, partnering, participatory requirements, user experience, user-centered technology design, academic-industry partnerships, user expectations, Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and Partial Least Squares (PLS) research methods and effective use of technology.
Her specific interests include entrepreneurial technology, where rapid technology requirements co-discovered with users shape advances into new start-ups or new software services and products.
Barbara got involved as an investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Fund 1 and 2 to illustrate the pathway for early-stage companies and to help women realize they can build start-ups too. With the government tri-council funding, she’s currently building a community platform as evidence for how it can be done differently.
Angela Nagy
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Angela Nagy
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
As the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GreenStep Solutions, Angela Nagy has known since the age of 18 that her purpose in life is to “help change the world through business, politics and music.” Now a sustainability expert with more than 25 years of experience, Angela has worked with all sizes of businesses, non-profits, and various levels of government on a variety of energy efficiency, climate action, and other sustainability-related projects.
Through GreenStep, Angela leads a diverse team of sustainability professionals and climate action experts whose core mission is to make the world a better place by helping businesses measure, report on and improve their sustainability performance, reduce their carbon footprint, and take regenerative action. Since its inception in 2008, GreenStep has worked with more than 6,000 businesses across Canada and internationally.
While GreenStep has served various industries including manufacturing, utilities, agriculture, and financial institutions, a major area of focus is the tourism and hospitality sectors. Angela has led the development of numerous offerings for tourism businesses, destinations, and industry associations, including the GreenStep Sustainable Tourism certification standards, the GreenStep EcoFund program, the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, sustainability-related playbooks and training programs, and the Sustainable Tourism Hub – a membership site where tourism businesses can access resources, tools, and learning opportunities.
In 2023, Angela attended the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization, where GreenStep was formally approved as an affiliate member of the organization.
In 2013, Angela led GreenStep’s acquisition of a carbon accounting platform, now called EcoBase, which is designed to support small and medium-sized businesses and organizations that serve these businesses in measuring their carbon footprint. GreenStep further supports these businesses in establishing science-based reduction targets and developing climate action plans to meet them.
Angela’s experience also includes politics. She was elected to Kelowna City Council and appointed as a Regional District Director in 2008, the same year she started GreenStep. She is certified in Organizational GHG Accounting and as a sustainability practitioner through The Natural Step, and she also serves on several volunteer committees including the Advisory Committee of the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission, Destination International’s Advocacy Committee, and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada’s READI Committee.
Angela is honoured and humbled to be in a position where she can give back to the community and became an investor with OKGN WMAN Angel Funds 1 and 2 to support other women founders and CEOs in accessing capital to build purpose-driven businesses.
Angela has a quote on her office wall from a mentor that states, “Only she who attempts the absurd can achieve the impossible.” This has proven true for Angela.
When she started out, there were a lot of doubters who thought that starting a business to change the world was a nice idea, but a bad business plan. It hasn’t been easy, but through sheer grit, determination, an unwavering belief in her vision, and the support of her family, Angela has led her team to become some of the most sought-after sustainability and climate action experts in Canada.
Mimi Hurt
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Mimi Hurt
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Mimi “Lisa” Hurt has had a long, varied career dating from the early days of information technology – as a software programmer and database designer, to academia with a Ph.D. in Management, to management consulting for large and small organizations in a variety of industries.
Her passions have always revolved around organizational strategy and design, leadership, relationship management, and service quality.
Using her well-honed critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as an extensive toolbox of skills and techniques, Mimi has helped numerous executive Master of Business Administration students and clients understand their organization’s strategies, practices, and challenges.
In Mimi’s opinion, the fun is in developing effective, practical solutions for addressing the challenges and opportunities based on a comprehensive, insightful understanding of the context, strengths, weaknesses, and requirements.
Upon retiring from academia and consulting, Mimi pursued a long-held dream in the hospitality industry: owning and operating a successful bed-and-breakfast. After achieving awards of excellence from TripAdvisor and others, she realized she missed her passion of helping others figure out how to address their organization’s problems and achieve success, so she became an investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN).
Through her various careers, Mimi is well-aware of the glass ceiling and other barriers to success that woman have experienced, and thus is keen to help women entrepreneurs pursue success in today’s business climate.
Through her own entrepreneurial pursuits as a self-employed management consultant and BnB owner, she is well-versed with all the nuances and areas of responsibility demanding the attention of start-ups and growing businesses. These experiences, skills and expertise help her in conducting due diligence efforts as part of OKGN WMAN’s investment decisions.
Mimi strongly believes in collaboration, networking, and the sharing of ideas to help others succeed through synergies, best practices, and stimulating innovative thinking.
Lauren Macaulay
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Lauren Macaulay
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Lauren Macaulay is an architect and principal at Arcadis. She began her career in 2006 at IBI Group, a globally integrated architecture and engineering firm, working in the Vancouver office. In 2018, she relocated to open IBI’s Kelowna office to better serve the Okanagan region. Today, the Kelowna office is a well-established consultancy practice serving both public and private sector clients. The office works across disciplines to define the cities of tomorrow through intelligent systems, sustainable buildings, and efficient infrastructure.
In September 2022, IBI Group was acquired by Arcadis. Arcadis is a digitally-driven design firm with global architecture, engineering, planning, and technology experts across 70 countries. From high-rises to industrial buildings, transit stations to highways, airports to toll systems, bike lanes to parks, Arcadis designs every aspect of a truly integrated city for people to live, work, and play.
As part of the integration of the two firms, Lauren stepped into the role of Canada West Business Unit Director (BUD) for the newly created Architecture and Urbanism division at Arcadis. She oversaw the change management and organizational transformation of over 350 staff, across four offices in Alberta and British Columbia. As BUD, she leverages strategic planning and design methodologies to assess current business practices, identify areas for improvement and support business transformation. In her regional role, she strives to empower teams to embrace new ways of working, drive efficiency, increase collaboration and strive for design excellence, while ultimately ensuring business success and profitability.
In her architectural practice, Lauren leads a wide range of services including community engagement, master planning, new construction, and renovations. She takes pride in her ability to support meaningful outreach programs for stakeholders and the public alike. She believes use-centered dialogue is the basis for responsive and impactful design.
Lauren is an active investor with OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) 1 and 2. She is proud to be a part of OKGN WMAN and their work to empower female investors and entrepreneurs. Born and raised in Kelowna, Lauren is a passionate advocate for the Okanagan region. She has an established personal and professional network in the community and was recently named to the Kelowna Community Task Force on Performing Arts. Lauren is thrilled to be working alongside a diverse group of community peers to help guide the redevelopment of the Kelowna Community Theatre.
Saskia Battersby
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Saskia Battersby
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Saskia Battersby is Vice President of Product at Minga, a fast-growing edtech company that helps schools build safer, more connected, and more positive communities. She leads Minga’s product strategy, focusing on delivering simple, impactful tools that make student engagement and behaviour management easier for educators.
With over 15 years of experience in product leadership, Saskia has helped scale multiple SaaS and technology companies including Thinkific, Visier, Avigilon, and SAP. Her expertise lies in building high-performing teams and driving customer-centric innovation from vision through execution.
In addition to her operating roles, Saskia is an active angel investor and mentor within the Okanagan tech ecosystem. She invests in and supports early-stage companies through the OKGN WMAN Funds 1, 2, and 3, and has served as a mentor for UBC Okanagan’s Venture Mentoring Service and other entrepreneurship programs.
Beyond her career in technology, Saskia is passionate about giving back to her community. She currently serves as Board President of the Childhood Connections Society, supporting early learning and family well-being across the Okanagan. Saskia holds a B.Sc. in Computer Science from the University of Victoria and an MBA in Management of Technology from Simon Fraser University.
She lives in the Okanagan with her husband and two sons, where she enjoys crochet, local wine, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Joy Playford, CMC
Fund 1
Fund 2
Fund 3
Joy Playford, CMC
Investor, Funds 1, 2 & 3
Joy Playford is an innovative leader with a passion for people, building community, developing organizational bench-strength, and delivering results. Her interest in leadership started early while growing up in her family’s manufacturing business. There she learned first-hand the impact of entrepreneurs who create business success, develop opportunities for people, and build strong communities.
Joy joined the Playford Performance Group following a 30-year career of progressively senior operational leadership positions in the banking and consulting industries. In senior leadership roles, Joy supported leaders to develop their potential and grow performance. Under her leadership, Joy’s teams led change, turned around and grew business results, developed new service offerings, and cultivated strategic partnerships. As Vice President and General Manager with inter-provincial responsibilities, she effectively led strategy, operations and performance execution across multiple business lines and locations.
In private practice, Joy provides executive coaching, team facilitation, leadership development, and performance consulting across a range of industries in entrepreneurial, regional, and national corporations. Leaders particularly value her ability to both challenge and cultivate their growth in ways that inspire them to “up their game” and find new ways forward. She co-created and facilitates the firm’s innovative Leadership “Action Learning” Programs. And as a MacKay Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Forum Chair, Joy also supports results-oriented CEOs, executives, and business owners to solve their toughest problems and maximize their best opportunities in diverse peer learning groups.
Joy is a Certified Management Consultant. Her leadership development includes York Universities’ Executive Development Program, International Coach Federation (ICF) accredited Executive Coach training and Covey Leadership’s in-residence programs.
Joy supports the Playford Performance Group’s annual pro bono executive coaching in the not-for-profit sector. Her community service includes founding membership in the Kelowna Women Leaders Network and service on the Board of Directors of the Women’s Enterprise Centre of B.C. She is immediate past Chair of the Board of Commissionaires B.C. and has served as Chairperson of the Regional Development Council of the B.C. Cancer Foundation for the Southern Interior, Chapter Chair and Board Member of the Canadian Association of Management Consultants B.C., as well as a Director of the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires. Joy is an investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Funds 1 and 2 to support women founders and CEOs.
Martine Boucher
Fund 2
Fund 3
Martine Boucher
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
Martine Boucher hails from a quaint town near Montreal. Spanning a diverse range of industries from natural resources and banking to construction and professional services, her professional trajectory has been fueled by curiosity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to challenging the status quo.
Martine’s educational journey began at the Faculty of Law, University of Montréal, where she received her bachelor’s degree in 1995, laying a robust foundation for her extensive and varied legal career. After earning her degree, she gained valuable experience and honed her skills at McCarthy Tétrault, and later as Associate General Counsel at GE Capital. Not long after, she completed her common law equivalencies in 2012 and then passed the bar in Alberta and Ontario, in 2012 and 2016 respectively.
In 2010, inspired by her love for the West and its entrepreneurial spirit, Martine co-founded Simplex Legal – the first virtual national law firm in Canada. This innovative venture is a testament to her passion, persistence, and forward-thinking mindset. Under her guidance, Simplex evolved into a professional haven where diverse in-house-experienced lawyers could leverage their talents for the benefit of clients who are looking for strategic legal support. In 2021, Simplex entered a strategic alliance with Epiq Global, providing the tools and partnerships needed for continued exponential growth.
Being fully bilingual and having lived in Quebec, Alberta, and now British Columbia, Martine has garnered unique insights and a broad perspective. As an avid learner with a keen interest of the intersection of people, processes and technology, Martine is continually exploring the possibilities of new technology. She is currently enrolled at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan for an Executive Certificate in Digital Business.
Martine’s commitment extends beyond professional boundaries into the community, propelled by a sincere desire to make a positive impact. As part of that commitment, she recently joined OKGN WMAN Angel Fund as an investor and new General Partner, to support women founders and Chief Executive Officers in their entrepreneurial journey. She is also a Board Member for Dress for Success.
As she embarks on her new journey post-exit, Martine is eager to utilize her unique skills and wide-ranging experience to serve on executive boards and offer high-impact consulting services. She brings with her the courage to face challenges head-on, the persistence to drive change, and an unwavering belief in the potential of growth and innovation.
Jennifer Cole
Fund 2
Fund 3
Jennifer Cole
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
Jen Cole is passionate about creating a growth technology company offering the ideal culture - a place where technology experts can be creative and productive without wasting energy navigating a toxic workplace. In part, she believes this can be created by providing flexible hours that enable creative thinking time, time with family, and the flexibility to complete all the tasks life requires.
Jen is particularly interested in turning the current Silicon Valley grinder culture on its head. She believes that the outcome for customers and families, and thereby society, would be transformative.
She is currently taking a hiatus from her highly successful career amplifying non-profit impact with technology, and investing her time conceiving how to create maximum social impact in the next phase of her life.
Jen’s philosophical goals fit perfectly with her active role as an investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Fund which is focused on social impact and femtech.
Jen is also Chair of the Board of Okanagan Science Centre. The Okanagan Science Centre is a non-profit, charitable organization whose mission is to inspire scientific inquiry through dynamic and interactive learning experiences, and to encourage all ages to appreciate the relevance and universality of science and its application in our region. A key initiative at Okanagan Science Centre is to re-locate the organization into a space where it can significantly expand its impact for children and their families.
Jen has spent the last 12 years in the non-profit technology space and was most recently Vice President of Business Development at Exponent Partners, a mission-driven technology consulting firm that exclusively serves non-profits.
Powered by their belief that the right technology can transform an organization’s relationship to their data, the Exponent Partners team has a social mission to amplify non-profit impact which dovetails with Jen’s passion to make social impact.
Since 2005, the Exponent Partners team has served 700+ non-profits and completed 1,750+ technology projects, helping to exponentially increase the effectiveness of the non-profit sector using data.
In her work, Jen was responsible for growing sales and marketing teams that work with non-profit organizations with the goal of gaining better insights into their constituents and demonstrating their social impact.
Jen grew up in Metro Vancouver and relocated to West Kelowna in 2016 with her two rambunctious boys. She loves to travel but is always happiest here at home in the Okanagan.
Stacey McAuley
Fund 2
Fund 3
Stacey McAuley
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
Stacey MacAulay is a local denturist and clinic owner in Kelowna, whose impact extends far beyond the confines of her practice. Her journey is marked by a pursuit of progress and excellence, demonstrated by her pivotal roles within professional organizations and advisory boards.
Currently, Stacey serves as a valued committee member for an industry regulatory body, demonstrating her dedication to advancing industry standards and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Stacey also is a clinical advisor for Perfit Digital Dentures and co-organizer of the Digital Denture Study Club - a global not-for-profit event promoting the adoption of digital technology in denture manufacturing, with over 250 international annual participants.
Stacey has a passion for mentorship. She invests her time and expertise in nurturing young professionals, particularly women, as they navigate their professional journeys. Her commitment to empowering female clinicians and entrepreneurs reflects her belief in the power of mentorship to shape the future of healthcare and more.
Stacey has been surrounded by entrepreneurship most of her life, drawing inspiration from her father’s drive to find balance in life by forging his own entrepreneurial path. Clinic ownership and angel investing have been a way for Stacey to engage in different aspects of entrepreneurship.
In joining OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN), an all-female investor fund, Stacey is drawn to the synergy of successful, determined, and skilled female peers. She finds inspiration in the collective knowledge and diverse perspectives that the group embodies. She enjoys taking part in the collaboration and support that women share in the business world.
Engaging in the world of investing is a continuous learning process that has contributed to both her professional and personal growth. She sees investing as a way to constantly refine her analytical skills, deepen her understanding of market dynamics, and experience diversity particularly within female-led businesses.
Stacey is passionate about investing in ventures that embrace innovation and sustainability as well as embody the resilience and adaptability of female entrepreneurs. Stacey believes that supporting women in leadership roles not only drives economic growth but also fosters a more equitable and inclusive society.
Erin Athene
Fund 2
Fund 3
Erin Athene
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
Current roles:
- CEO and Co-Founder, Mint CRO, Inc. 5000 Company; A.I. Powered Engineering Approach to Marketing #WomenInAI
Former roles:
- Advisor/Managing Partner, Purpose Five Ventures
- Partner and Franchisor, Hot Mama Health & Fitness Franchising Ltd.
- President and Co-Founder, Topaz Bridge (enterprise software bridging data between SAP and Microsoft SharePoint)
Community activity:
- Ladies Learning Code, Victoria Chapter Lead
- Executive-in-Residence/Advisor, University of Victoria’s Innovation Centre and VIATEC (Victoria’s Innovation, Advanced Technology and Entrepreneurship Council)
- Women Leaders in BC Tech, BLAST Program
- W Venture - Advisory Board Chair and Consortium Partner with BC Digital Supercluster, Accelerate Okanagan, VIATEC, University of Victoria
Rose-Ann Normandeau
Fund 2
Fund 3
Rose-Ann Normandeau
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
Rose-Ann Normandeau started her career off as a nurse, which may come as a surprise to most. She believes that healthcare instilled in her a true determination to maintain extremely high standards of client care and to always go that extra mile.
These personal values, plus her passion for helping others, are reflected in the extraordinary success of Normandeau Window Coverings, the business she co-founded. Starting as an at-home business, Normandeau grew to 5 storefronts and 2 satellite locations across Alberta and British Columbia. By the time Rose-Ann sold Normandeau as co-owner in 2023, it was the largest Hunter Douglas dealer in Canada.
Rose-Ann is a unique success story. She has no formal education in business, and yet successfully built and ran Normandeau over 18 years, never borrowing or raising capital to expand. Rose-Ann says this success is based on her conviction that if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing to the very best of your ability. How she built the business is exemplified by the “family” of dedicated, thoroughly trained employees who consistently excel in customer service and community.
When COVID-19 hit Calgary in 2020, Rose-Ann quickly realized the team could help. Her employees pivoted and started making facemasks out of their showroom designer fabrics, distributing and delivering them around the city for free. By the time they were done making masks, the tally sat around 2,000. Many individuals wanted to pay for the masks, but because the intention was not to profit from the endeavour, the team switched gears and began accepting money for donations. Rose-Ann says, “We raised approximately $20K and donated the funds to the food bank and YW Calgary which has been providing safety and support to women fleeing domestic violence.”
Rose-Ann was also one of the first to lose a loved one during those uncertain times, saying goodbye to her mother, Anna Neal, who lived in the heavily effected McKenzie Town Continuity Care Centre and passed away shortly after contracting COVID-19. She says in the face of tragedy, she channelled adversity into an opportunity to give back. “I believe in being a community leader and a person of action. We each have a part to play in helping our community get back to a thriving lifestyle and economy,” she says.
Rose-Ann recently joined OKGN WMAN Angel Fund to support other women in their endeavours; help others avoid the trials and errors she experienced; and learn about early-stage investing. She also enjoys increasing her circle with other like-minded entrepreneurial women who are driven, honest, passionate, and want to have an impact that makes a difference.
Rose-Ann currently sits on a board for a software company and is looking forward to her next entrepreneurial journey.
Joanne Viau
Fund 2
Fund 3
Joanne Viau
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
The uglier the better,” says Joanne Viau, owner of Unlocked Potential, an Okanagan real estate redesign firm, before embarking on a tour through her newest project, a stunning six-bedroom, seven-bathroom home now for sale in one of Kelowna’s most coveted neighbourhoods, the Lower Mission.
The very notion that the stately yet welcoming and modern home could ever have been deemed anything other than elegant seems unfathomable today. “It was so dark, this house, that I described it as something from a Charles Dickens novel,” she says. Keeping the traditional feeling born from the original construction and incorporating more contemporary design features has ultimately resulted in a home with timeless appeal.
As Joanne’s friend and realtor, Tracey Vrecko, says, “Nobody is doing it quite like Joanne.”
“It” doesn’t have a precise name. Some may say she’s a house flipper, but being a flipper —a real estate trend popularized by reality TV—doesn’t do justice to the heart and soul Joanne has breathed into the eight projects she’s taken on in recent years.
Joanne grew up in a family familiar with the trades, so she understood from an early age how things go together. It wasn’t in the cards earlier in her life to take on creative projects like she’s doing now, but it’s a change in direction that’s gaining significant support, demonstrated by her strong Instagram following. Joanne was also recently named a finalist in the Okanagan Housing Awards of Excellence, from the Okanagan branch of the Canadian Home Builders Association. She’s been nominated in two categories, Residential Renovator of the Year and Excellence in Bathroom Renovations.
All of this is an impressive leap from where she started as a registered nurse for 15 years in labour and delivery and then in the fertility field. “I was a nurse for many years and then I gave that up to raise my family and help my husband grow his online company.” The couple have now successfully exited the business and Joanne says it was her turn to do something that interested her.
After exiting, the couple participated in Fund 2 and 3 of the OKGN Angel Summit and Joanne is also an investor in the OKGN WMAN Angel Fund.
On the business front, Tracey convinced Joanne to unleash her creativity on older homes that needed new life. “I bought one little house…and I gave it a whirl,” Joanne recalls. “I met with a designer friend…and I was like ‘okay, who’s the first person I call?’” Demolition, she was told. “Then, who’s number two?” she asked. A framer was next on the list and from there, the ball kept rolling.
Joanne gathered a team of trusted tradespeople who have stayed with her as she’s moved from project to project. “I love showing [Joanne’s] homes because she doesn’t cut corners,” Tracey says. “She only uses the best finishings, so she is proud to hand the keys to the new owners.”
Edited from an original article by Kathy Michaels in the January 2024 Okanagan issue of Boulevard Magazine.
Amy Bell
Fund 2
Fund 3
Amy Bell
Investor, Funds 2 & 3
Amy is a trailblazer in the investment industry with a remarkable journey spanning over 15 years.
Amy’s passion for finance ignited at the tender age of 12 when she made her inaugural investment, a decision that would eventually pave the way to becoming a partner at dts lifeStyles, a financial practice that answers the questions “Will I have enough?”, “Will it last?” and “What happens if?” to ensure her clients make confident financial decisions.
Amy’s realization that the investment industry lacked a language accessible to women sparked a mission to bridge this gap. She is on a journey to demystify financial jargon and empower women to take control of their wealth confidently. Amy firmly believes that financial literacy is key, and she’s committed to speaking in a language that resonates with women, making complex concepts more understandable and approachable.
In her view, the most effective path to building wealth is through business ownership. Amy advocates for entrepreneurship as a means to not only generate income but also to establish lasting financial security. Her own experiences in the business world have fueled her belief in the transformative power of ownership.
When OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) approached Amy, it was a serendipitous alignment of values and purpose. Amy saw in OKGN WMAN the perfect platform to amplify her mission of empowering women in the financial realm. The collaboration became a natural fit, driven by a shared commitment to fostering financial independence and breaking down barriers that have historically hindered women from maximizing their wealth potential.
Amy’s journey from a precocious investor at 12 to a dedicated advocate for women’s financial empowerment is nothing short of inspiring.
With OKGN WMAN, she continues to make waves, leading the way for a future where women confidently navigate the intricate landscape of investments, business ownership, and wealth building. Her story is a beacon of encouragement, illuminating the path for countless others to follow.
Buffy Mills
Fund 3
Buffy Mills
Investor, Fund 3
Buffy Mills has never waited for permission to create change. She has always stepped forward, ensuring Indigenous communities have the financial security, benefits, and support they deserve.
“Giving back in such meaningful ways is the greatest measure of success,” she explains. “I am so blessed to be able to uplift others and create lasting impact.”
Mills knew from the start that her work would centre around advocacy, equity, and systemic change. While the exact path wasn’t always clear, she positioned herself where she could make the greatest difference.
As a respected leader in Indigenous benefits and financial advocacy at Acera Indigenous Benefits, the Indigenous employee benefits consultant is transforming an industry that has historically overlooked the unique needs of Indigenous organizations.
BPM recognized Mills as an Elite Woman 2025 for her significant impact and contributions to the sector.
Mills has a profound understanding of the structural barriers Indigenous women face in business, which comprise multiple layers of systemic barriers from underrepresentation in leadership to the ongoing need to prove their expertise in industries that have historically undervalued Indigenous perspectives.
While Mills has spent her career ensuring that Indigenous organizations receive equitable, culturally relevant benefits and financial solutions, too often, she has seen boilerplate policies and outdated structures failing to serve Indigenous clients in meaningful ways.
Instead of accepting the industry status quo, she pushes for solutions that align with Indigenous ways of knowing and leading. She is known for her relentless approach, which is rooted in community.
“We often have to navigate the challenge of being taken seriously in professional spaces where our knowledge and contributions may be overlooked or questioned,” she notes. “This also includes managing unwanted attention that can undermine our professionalism and authority.”
For Mills, advocacy is the driving force behind everything she does. She approaches her career with a sense of service and responsibility.
“It’s never just about the job; it’s about the impact,” she says.
She is heavily involved in her community, where she has actively contributed to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS), helped fund the construction of the OKIB Cultural Immersion School, and supported youth programs for the Westbank First Nation.
She has also sponsored events such as the Kehewin Powwow, Yellowhead Tribal Council initiatives, and leadership development for Indigenous youth.
One of her proudest contributions was ensuring that contestants in Miss Penticton had access to professional public speaking coaching, equipping them with the skills and confidence to use their voices effectively. She also strongly supports Miss Indigenous Canada Jessica McKenzie, believing that visibility and representation are powerful tools for change.
She strives to ensure that Indigenous professionals, especially women, are present and leading in decision-making spaces.
If she could change one thing about the industry, it would be how leadership opportunities are structured. Indigenous women often find themselves in supporting roles rather than at the decision-making table, and she is determined to change that.
“I want to see more Indigenous women leading in financial, insurance, and benefits spaces, not just being included but shaping the industry,” she says.
Her ultimate goal is to reshape the financial and benefits sector so that Indigenous organizations no longer have to fight for fair treatment. She envisions a future where culturally relevant solutions are the norm and built into the system the way they should have been all along.
Kelly Davidson
Fund 3
Kelly Davidson
Investor, Fund 3
Kelly is Associate Portfolio Manager and Investment Advisor with Odlum Brown with a passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals through personalized strategic planning and investment management. Kelly has always been a people person with a dedication to service, which is exemplified through her long history of community involvement. In her practice, her focus is on getting to know clients personally and gaining a deep and clear understanding of who they are beyond their investor profile and goals. She strives to be a trusted resource and always enjoys addressing clients’ questions, concerns and curiosities related to their financial well-being. Free from any agenda to sell particular offerings, Kelly is truly an independent partner who takes pride in her ability to build curated portfolios that are perfectly suited to each client’s specific needs.
Over the years, Kelly has gained valuable experience working with diverse clients from young professionals to retirees, guiding them through economic cycles and market conditions and supporting them during significant life events and milestones. Kelly believes that everyone deserves access to sound financial advice, regardless of their age or stage in life, and she is deeply committed to client success. Her profound devotion to community, connection and client service sets her apart in the financial advisory landscape, and she is proud to be a part of the team at Odlum Brown.
Viviana Aguirre
Fund 3
Viviana Aguirre
Investor, Fund 3
I am a seasoned Program Manager with a proven track record of leading high-performance teams to deliver world-class critical projects, innovative solutions, and technology capabilities that drive transformation and process automation. With over 18 years of experience spanning HP Inc and independent consulting, I have honed my expertise in project management, data analysis, and strategic planning, while also excelling in roles such as a trusted advisor to senior executives and a strategic advisor for business development.
My journey from an Industrial Engineer to a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a graduate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation showcases my commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. My dynamic skill set encompasses strategic influence, networking, data analysis, and strategic communications, aligning seamlessly with my passion for leading transformation projects and mentoring individuals and organizations to thrive in ever-evolving industries.
I possess a natural flair for creative problem-solving and fostering meaningful relationships. Leveraging my blend of technical expertise and interpersonal finesse, I drive initiatives that bridge innovation and efficiency. My journey has equipped me to explore new horizons in senior, managerial, or directorial roles, where I can contribute to strategic growth and empower teams to excel.
Jackie Gidda
Fund 3
Jackie Gidda
Investor, Fund 3
Jacklyn Gidda is the co-Founder of Leda Chartered Professional Accountants Inc. Jackie has over 15 years of experience in public practice with over five years being at a big 4 accounting firm. Her professional career has been solely in public practice firms where she has worked on and managed various assurance and compilation engagements. She has been a member of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia since 2011.
Jackie has been able to combine her experiences obtained from public practice with growing up as part of a family business to build a focus around providing strategic business advice to entrepreneurs. She enjoys building relationships with her clients, getting to understand their life goals, and being part of their professional advisor team to help facilitate those desired outcomes. This passion to be more accessible to clients and provide advice to business owners as they need it is part of the reason Leda was created.
Having grown up in Kelowna, Jackie is passionate about giving back to the community. She is currently the treasurer for Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School as well as the Impact Tomorrow Foundation. She also volunteers her time by being involved in the finance committees for Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School, Impact Tomorrow Foundation, as well as the Child Advocacy Centre.
Jackie lives in beautiful Kelowna, BC with her husband and two wonderful sons, where she enjoys travelling, skiing, golfing, and spending time with friends and family.
Sue Ramsay-McKitrick
Fund 3
Sue Ramsay-McKitrick
Investor, Fund 3
Sue is Senior Strategy Officer with Alta West Capital.
Experienced Investor Relations Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. Skilled in Investor Relations, Leadership, Fixed Income Investments. Strong media and communication professional with a Bachelor of Arts - BA focused in Political Science And Economics from University of Calgary.
Lindsay Sill
Fund 3
Lindsay Sill
Investor, Fund 3
Lindsey Sill is Executive Director of CUCCIO, Canada’s Community of higher education CIOs. She has a demonstrated history of working in the information/digital technology and services industry.
Over the past decade she's held various leadership roles and directorships at digital technology companies and supporting researchers in higher ed. As the CEO of WestGrid, she led the organization through incorporation, setting up a well-governed organization and fostered a collaborative culture that inspired positive performance results. After WestGrid she was appointed as the inaugural ED & COO for the Quantum Algorithms Institute, where she worked closely with the Board of Directors to build BC’s quantum ecosystem. As a member of the Advanced Research Computing (ARC) Working Group, Lindsay co-authored a position paper on the ARC needs in Canada, as requested by the federal government, through the Leadership Council on Digital Research Infrastructure. These efforts led to the 2018 federal budget announcement of $572.5M over five years to implement a Digital Research Infrastructure Strategy.
Early in her career, Lindsay worked as a Laboratory Manager in the Department of Medicine for the University of Calgary where she did research on gene therapy and immunology, which eventually led to a publication in Nature. Lindsay was also an Advisory Board member of the first international and Canadian chapter of the non-profit organization Women in HPC, which works to improve the gender balance in high performance computing.
She served as a National and Global Ambassador for the Universal Women's Network and Vice-Chair of The Nest Foundation. Lindsay serves as an independent director for BC Commissionaires (Vice Chair) and Kelowna Ultimate Players Society (Vice President). She has a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Victoria, and in 2022 she completed the Director’s Education Program through the Institute of Corporate Directors. She was the recipient of the 2022 Women of Inspiration Award. She lives in Kelowna, BC with her husband and two sons.
Angela Grandy
Fund 3
Angela Grandy
Current Role: Co-Founder & CFO, Esteem Apparel
Investor, Fund 3
Angela Lum Grandy is the Co-Founder and CFO of Esteem Apparel. She manages the financial and operational side of the growing men’s shapewear brand. Her role spans from inventory planning, supplier and warehouse relationships, international logistics, and quality control. Since launching, Angela has successfully expanded Esteem Apparel into global markets, including the U.S., Mexico, Europe, Japan, and Australia, while maintaining a scalable structure.
In addition to eCommerce, Angela is an active real estate investor, with properties across British Columbia and Alberta. She enjoys analyzing deals that align with long-term financial goals and contribute to a balanced investment portfolio.
Angela is passionate about mentoring and supporting other women in business and investing. Whether it’s through sharing lessons from scaling a product-based brand or navigating real estate deals.
Angela believes in supporting women in business and OKGN WMAN has allowed her to learn from, and share, her knowledge with like-minded business women.
Jenna Marttila
Fund 3
Jenna Marttila
Investor, Fund 3
Jenna Marttila, P.Eng. serves as Director, Planning & Strategy at Carbon Alpha.
She earned her Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering from McGill University.
Prior to Carbon Alpha, she has worked many roles in the energy sector in the USA and Canada, such as reservoir, production, development, and planning. She has also co-founded two landscaping companies, which are both still in operation today.
Jenna loves working in a start-up atmosphere, which provides the opportunity (and necessity) of being involved across many areas of the business. She works on project budgets, marketing and advertising, business development, project management, economics, and understanding regulations and policies. She appreciates the variety in projects, the exposure to new concepts, and the opportunity to work with a fun, smart, driven team.
Alexis MacMillan
Fund 3
Alexis MacMillan
Investor, Fund 3
Alexis is Owner, instructional designer and interactive media producer with Micro Learning Bursts.
I have over 30 years’ experience in all aspects of learning development using solid instructional design, writing, and interactive engagement strategies. I specialize in creating highly technical programs that are developed for websites, learning management systems, and mobile responsive deployments.
I hold a Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) designation from the Institute for Performance and Learning (Canada’s certifying organization for workplace learning professionals). I have designed a number of award-winning programs for clients such as Alberta Health Services (AHS), Parks Canada, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the United Nations (UN).
From 1997-2014 I owned and ran my own company with 15 staff, creating eLearning and interactive media. I was listed on PROFIT Magazine’s W100 as one of Canada’s top 100 women entrepreneurs for three consecutive years. Following the sale of my company, I created my own consulting practice (Micro Learning Bursts).
In 2016 and 2017 I was a member of a CoastSmart communication and education strategy team, working with Think2020 under contract to Parks Canada. The team created media and educational materials for the public safety campaign highlighting the hazards at beaches along the coastline between Tofino and Ucluelet. I helped design the CoastSmart website coastsmart.ca including HTML responsive micro learning interactions and a quiz for use by website users and for completion of CoastSmart 101 educational presentations. I also produced nine CoastSmart educational videos as part of the project.
I am a team player and often work with client teams to choose the right technology for their organizational needs. I especially love to team up colleagues to create epic learning programs, interactive media, or something else yet to be discovered. I get the most work joy from succeeding as a team, and I’m open to learning new things with every project. Whatever is around the corner, I know it works best with other professionals who want to make the world a better place.
Angie Garg
Fund 3
Angie Garg
Investor, Fund 3
Senior energy and resource business leader with over thirty years of experience in the energy industry, including leadership positions in corporate and business development, major projects, joint ventures, and operations.
My breadth of experience covers end-to-end focus on value creation; from strategy & direction setting through to execution of large-scale transformative projects, operations, and Board of Director and Management Committee positions.
I was a member of Syncrude Canada’s Board of Directors and the Management Committee from 2014 to 2016 (annual revenue of >$ 5-7 Billion). Served as Chair of the
Human Resources & Compensation Committee and member of on the Safety, Health, Environment & Corporate Sustainability & Pension Committees.
Highly adept at corporate governance and oversight, solving complex including stakeholder management & alignment, the mobilization & motivation of large cross-functional teams in operations, corporate and physical projects environment and delivering results on time and on budget, drawing from experience as an operator, builder of physical assets and as a corporate strategist and business developer.
I am known for building alliances with diverse international companies, implementing programs to support operational excellence and transformational improvements. Combining collaborative leadership style with focus on performance.
Retired from Suncor Energy Inc. on Dec 31, 2021.
Kaleen Olansky
Fund 3
Kaleen Olansky
Investor, Fund 3
Current Role:
- Senior Vice President, Finance at SCM Insurance Services
Karen von Zitzewitz
Fund 3
Karen von Zitzewitz
Investor, Fund 3
Current Role:
- CEO & Co-founder, eyeCyou
Lasha Orzechowski
Fund 3
Lasha Orzechowski
Investor, Fund 3
Lasha Orzechowski has over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience. She is currently the founder and CEO of Metatrove.
Metatrove is a dynamic platform allowing visitors of cultural institutions and public spaces to engage in a deeper way through informative tours and educational experiences. Metatrove works with its clients to deliver custom touring, design, photography and AR experiences.
Lasha was previously the Founder and Creative Director of Velocity Design Works, an award-winning multi-discipline branding agency. Lasha has served as a judge for several awards including the International Summit Awards, and her work has been featured in Applied Arts Magazine, the Creativity Series, Logo Lounge, How Magazine, the Global Corporate Identity Series, Color: Messages and Meanings and more.
Cynthia Enns
Fund 3
Cynthia Enns
Investor, Fund 3
Previous investment industry professional turned Entrepreneur. Now two wineries and a general store later, taking a much needed break.
Lise Lachance
Fund 3
Lise Lachance
Investor, Fund 3
Mechanical Engineer with 25 years experience in cardiovascular product development, design verification and validation, pre-clinical testing, regulatory submissions and clinical studies. Project management and supervisory experience of engineering and technical staff. Possess a strong commitment to team dynamics with both the ability to contribute expertise as well as follow leadership directives at appropriate times. Promoting team performance and interaction through positive energy based on team building training courses.
Specialties: Biological tissues, tissue processing, design using biological materials
Percutaneous Aortic Valve: Concept feasibility to FIM
Surgical Mitral Valve: IDE submission to Market Launch
Biomaterials (Bovine, porcine and equine pericardium)
Metals: Titanium, elgiloy, Nitinol, Stainless Steel
Polymers: Delrin, PC, Polyimide, PTFE
Fabrics; Dacron, ePTFE
Jen Boger
Fund 3
Jen Boger
Investor, Fund 3
I build low effort, high impact technology and systems that are accessible, appropriate, and equitable.
A thought leader bridging academia and industry, I specialise in AI technologies centred around meaningful human engagement. I champion the use of multi-stakeholder collaboration throughout the technology lifecycle to drive the development of solutions from concept to measurable impact. I blend my work in 'Ethical by Design' and 'Zero-effort Technology' with other frameworks and emerging concepts to establish new ways of thinking and doing in responsible technology development.
I'm always curious and love meeting new people and learning new things.
Core areas of expertise: Applied AI/ML | HCI | User-Centred Design | Zero-Effort Technologies | Transdisciplinary/Multidisciplinary Working | Internet of things | Ambient Environments.
My newsletter "How Now AI?":
https://hownowai.substack.com
Google scholar:
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=w3nBJHsAAAAJ&hl=en
------------------------
Chercheuse en technologie | Leader d'opinion | Catalyseur d'innovation | Pionnière du développement responsable | Conférencière
Je développe des technologies et systèmes à faible effort et à fort impact qui sont accessibles, appropriés et équitables.
Leader d'opinion qui fait le pont entre le milieu universitaire et l'industrie, je me spécialise dans les technologies d'IA centrées sur l'engagement humain significatif. Je défends l'utilisation de la collaboration multi-parties prenantes tout au long du cycle de vie technologique pour piloter le développement de solutions du concept à l'impact mesurable. J'allie mon travail en « Éthique par conception » et « Technologies zéro-effort » avec d'autres cadres et concepts émergents pour établir de nouvelles façons de penser et d'agir dans le développement technologique responsable.
Domaines d'expertise principaux : IA/AM appliquée | IHM | Conception centrée sur l'utilisateur | Technologies zéro-effort | Travail transdisciplinaire/multidisciplinaire | Internet des objets | Environnements ambiants.
Mon infolettre « How Now AI? » :
https://hownowai.substack.com
Google Scholar :
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=w3nBJHsAAAAJ&hl=en
Franca Mercuri
Fund 3
Franca Mercuri
Investor, Fund 3
Since 1985, Premiere Mortgage has specialized in non-bank, equity mortgage financing. Through our mortgage investment corporation (MIC), Premiere Canadian Mortgage Corp., we can assist all your non-bank clients with creative, affordable private mortgage options for virtually any purpose. Our markets are British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario. Check us out at www.premhome.ca
Jaclyn McPhadden
Fund 1
Fund 2
Jaclyn McPhadden, MBA
Investor, Fund 1&2
Before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey, Jaclyn spent several years working and exploring both the Artic and Antarctic. Prior to that she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the University of Victoria and a Masters of Business Administration at the University of British Columbia. Learning and then leadership in remote and pristine locations, sparked transformative ideas.
In 2008, Jaclyn co-founded RecycleSmart, a company that became one of Canada’s fastest-growing enterprises. She was recognized as both a business builder and leader for her individual accomplishments. She was named Female Entrepreneur of the Year by Maclean’s in 2018, Business in Vancouver’s 2017 Top Forty Under 40, and EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Pacific Finalist in 2022.
RecycleSmart disrupted the traditional waste industry by leveraging the burgeoning Internet of Things (loT) which set it apart from the conventional waste disposal services dominated by industry giants like Waste Management and Waste Connections. The company’s innovative technology backbone enabled remarkable growth without external investors. In short order RecycleSmart rapidly expanded to become Canada’s largest manager of waste and recycling services for businesses nationwide.
In 10 years RecycleSmart become the 12th fastest-growing company in Canada with over 100 employees and annual revenue surpassing $50 million.
In 2022, Jaclyn accomplished a successful exit when RecycleSmart was acquired by the U.S.-based company, Recycle Track Systems. This marked the culmination of her journey from the initial spark of an idea in 2008 to the realization of a thriving and innovative enterprise within the waste management sector.
Reflecting on her career and educational journey, Jaclyn expresses a heightened appreciation today for the barriers to change within legacy industries. She acknowledges the formidable challenges that start-ups face in attempting to alter the status quo. Through her experiences, she has gained a profound understanding of the difficulties inherent in challenging established norms, both in her professional and educational pursuits.
Jaclyn’s interest in angel investing was sparked by her desire to assist fellow entrepreneurs in accessing essential start-up capital. Having personally encountered challenges in securing viable financing options during her journey from start-up to success, she understands the significance of adequate funding.
With over a decade of experience as an executive in a male-dominated industry, Jaclyn witnessed firsthand the underrepresentation of women in boardrooms. Motivated by a commitment to fostering change, she joined OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) with the aim of empowering women-owned/led businesses seeking investment. Recognizing the pivotal role that the angel investment community plays in fueling the next generation of women-led businesses, Jaclyn views supporting such ventures as a smart investment strategy. She is an investor in both Fund 1 and 2.
Jacquie Adam
Fund 1
Fund 2
Jacquie Adam
Investor, Fund 1&2
Jacquie says when she was young there was a perception that computer science was for basement dwelling nerds, and this reputation made her reluctant to pursue this path. But after her Grade 11 math teacher encouraged her to take a computer science elective, she never looked back.
Jacquie was a Governor General Award winner for excellence in academics, and a 1994 recipient of a University of British Columbia (UBC) Dean of Science Scholarship Award. She graduated with honours from UBC with a degree in Computer Science (Co-op Program) in 1999.
Today, Jacquie Adam is a highly experienced technology executive with a proven track record in entertainment and “big tech”. She considers her top skills to be leadership, security and compliance, architecture, product vision, and delivering secure, scalable enterprise applications. She loves digital transformation, large scale delivery, and building great technology teams.
She says, “Tech is about building things and solving problems - and anyone who likes math or logic should be encouraged to consider computer science as a field of study.” Jacquie advises women who might be interested in pursuing a career in tech to find a mentor and be willing to experiment with different roles to learn what they do and don’t like. She also challenges them to be willing to question the status quo and ask, “Is this really normal?” or “Should it be normal?” “Don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith,” she says.
One of the things that surprises Jacquie on a day-to-day basis is how rarely ideas are communicated simply. She is slowly overcoming imposter syndrome by embracing the idea that if something doesn’t make sense to you, it doesn’t mean you are stupid - it means it wasn’t clear!
Jacquie built her career as a software professional in start-ups in Vancouver and made the move to the Okanagan in 2010 to join The Walt Disney Company. As a Director, Technology, Jacquie was responsible for a variety of technology initiatives across Disney Games, Streaming, Parks, and Consumer Products. Today she leads large cross-organization initiatives for Amazon.
Jacquie is also a retired competitive curler. She played at the highest levels of the game, a four-time competitor at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts and a participant in the 2009 Olympic trials, retiring from competition in 2012. While there are many lessons from sport applicable to business, goal setting and team dynamics are two of the most critical she regularly applies to her work.
Jacquie is an active investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Funds 1 and 2 and is passionate about building an empowered community of female entrepreneurs and investors. Jacquie has been a mentor for UBCO’s Women in Science & Engineering (WiSE) and an active advisor and mentor with the UBC Alumni Association.
Trina Warren, CPA, CA
Fund 1
Fund 2
Trina Warren, CPA, CA
Co-founder,
Okanagan WMAN
Investor, Fund 1&2
Current role:
- Retired
- Co-founder, Okanagan WMAN
Community activity:
- Director, KGH Foundation
Former role:
- Regional Managing Partner, Thompson Okanagan Region, MNP
Jaime Briggs
Fund 1
Fund 2
Jaime Briggs
Investor, Fund 1&2
Jaime Briggs is a dedicated real estate agent and self-employed entrepreneur. Jaime became a licensed real estate agent in 2006, although she says her real estate career began unofficially when she was 5 years old, learning through her dad, who was a licensed REALTOR® in Victoria, B.C. for 30+ years. Her passion for serving her clients has only grown since then.
Jaime’s expertise spans various aspects of real estate, making her a versatile professional. She has a special affinity for new home construction, having personally built four homes. Her background in sales and marketing equips her with invaluable skills for listing properties, and her negotiation prowess has earned her numerous sales awards, showcasing her commitment to delivering the best outcomes for her clients.
Since 2006, Jaime has been a prominent figure in the Kelowna real estate market, and her business has consistently grown year after year. Her success is rooted in her unwavering dedication and commitment to her clients, who often transform into her closest friends.
In addition to her thriving real estate career, Jaime is deeply engaged in the Kelowna community through philanthropic work and is currently a member of the Rotary Club of Kelowna and Kelowna Women in Business.
Jaime embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship in the real estate industry, offering her clients not just expertise, but also a heartfelt commitment to their well-being and real estate dreams.
A self-employed entrepreneur herself, Jaime believes in actively contributing to the growth and success of women-led ventures. As an Angel Investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Fund 1 and 2, Jaime feels she is enhancing her commitment to community involvement and support for women entrepreneurs, thereby contributing to the success of future and current women-led ventures.
Rhonda Hymers
Fund 1
Fund 2
Rhonda Hymers, CIWM, CIM, FCSI, FEA
Investor, Fund 1&2
Rhonda Hymers’ commitment to continuous improvement has driven and defined her career in financial services, perhaps more than anything else. In 1994, she brought this mindset to her first industry role as a student intern, supporting an established investment advisor part-time while learning the inner workings of the complex financial services industry. “I fell in love with the markets and the opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference in people’s lives.”
Eight years later in 2002, with a five-month-old at home and a dream to forge new ground in wealth planning expertise and service excellence, Rhonda founded a practice of her own – Hymers Private Wealth.
Today, Rhonda serves some of the country’s most affluent families, business owners, sports professionals, and communities. Rhonda helps her clients through every life stage with a personalized strategy, expertly coordinating the investment, retirement, business succession, and estate planning solutions needed to enhance their overall wealth.
In 2013, Rhonda became the first Investment Advisor to receive the RBC Leo Award – the highest achievable honour among RBC’s 80,000 employees, awarded for exemplary integrity, performance, and service. In 2022, she was a recipient of the RBC Dominion Securities Women of Distinction Award recognizing her initiative, dedication, and leadership within the firm. And in 2023, she received the coveted RBC Global Citizen award for her commitment to giving back within her community.
For Rhonda, learning is a continuous priority. Her most recent achievements include receiving her Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) & Family Enterprise Advisor (FEA®) designations, which expand her ability to offer specialized advice to entrepreneurs and business family clients. Rhonda’s innovative thinking, results-driven approach to planning, and constant dedication have continued to serve her clients well.
Rhonda considers herself fortunate to enjoy life and a career in the Okanagan. She spends much of her free time with her family and giving back to the community that has been so generous in supporting her success.
Today, Rhonda is an active volunteer at Kelowna General Hospital Foundation’s Perking Lot, and a dedicated supporter of The Child Advocacy Centre of Kelowna, The Bridge Youth, and other local charities focused on children and youth. As an investor in OKGN WMAN Fund 1 and 2, Rhonda is a proud supporter of women entrepreneurs, applauding their drive to innovate, and empowering their ability to make an impact.
Dr. Elizabeth McMillan
Fund 2
Dr. Elizabeth McMillan
Investor, Fund 2
Current roles:
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia and University of Calgary
- Medical Staff, Kelowna General Hospital
Tara Benson
Fund 2
Tara Benson
Investor, Fund 2
Tara Benson is a dynamic financial professional deeply committed to aiding entrepreneurs in expanding and scaling their businesses. In her latest venture, Tara has taken on the role of Head of Business Development at Levr.ai, a ground-breaking Business-to-Business (B2B) fintech start-up. The Vancouver-based company recently secured $1.4M in pre-seed funding, co-led by Sprout.vc and MAVAN Capital Partners.
Levr.ai is an intelligent loans platform designed to streamline the funding process for businesses. The Intelligent Loans Marketplace, Levr.ai’s flagship product, leverages cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, redefining small business financing with speed, accessibility, and transparency.
As a foundation for her career in finance, Tara pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialization in Finance at the University of Alberta from 2006 to 2010, graduating with Distinction in her field of study.
She commenced her career as an analyst at Alberta Teachers’ Retirement Fund, contributing to research and due diligence for potential private equity investments. Transitioning to CIBC as a commercial banker, Tara collaborated with a spectrum of businesses, both small and large, facilitating their growth.
Later, as a Senior Account Manager at BDC, Tara specialized in providing venture debt and quasi-equity capital to high-growth tech companies in Western Canada.
In Alberta, she dedicated her time to the Edmonton Regional Innovation Network (ERIN), actively supporting innovation, technology, and knowledge-based start-ups. Leading the Access to Capital Committee, she focused on educating entrepreneurs and investors to enhance access to capital for Edmonton-based start-ups.
Throughout her decade-long career in finance and investment, Tara has observed a notable gap in women-led/women-owned businesses, particularly in the mid-market/large corporate and technology sectors. This realization fueled her commitment to leveling the playing field, leading her to actively support women-led businesses through initiatives like the OKGN WMAN Angel Fund.
Alison Memory
Fund 2
Alison Memory
Investor, Fund 2
Alison Memory is a commercial litigation partner with Pushor Mitchell. She has over 13 years of experience assisting business clients with navigating complex problems and disputes. These include contract disputes, negligence, and other business tort issues, as well as shareholder, partnership, and joint venture disputes.
Alison has practiced law in each of the prairie provinces and is currently called to the bar in both British Columbia and Alberta.
The focus of Alison’s practice is to help clients navigate a path forward through the problem that best meets their objectives. This includes taking a realistic look at the situation and considering, with the client’s input, what a good result might look like in terms of cost, risk, timing, and other factors and concerns.
Alison believes that sometimes the best successes are when the problem never reaches the court system at all. Keeping track of wins and losses in court as a measure a lawyer’s success, like they do in the movies, is a lawyer-centric view that focuses on the lawyer’s ego.
While there is no doubt that we all want to be the successful party if we go to court, Alison’s view is that it is better to assess how well the chosen strategies are working at achieving the client’s goals.
Alison loves the community spirit at her firm, Pushor Mitchell. She says, “By focusing on the people, businesses, arts and culture, and social issues in Kelowna, the firm finds ways to make our community an even better place to live, work, and do business.”
Alison is an investor with OKGN WMAN Angel Fund and Chair of the Board of Opera Kelowna. She and the board are working hard to make opera more accessible, inclusive, and relevant for our community.
Pam Parmar
Fund 2
Pam Parmar
Investor, Fund 2
Community activities:
- Central Okanagan Food Bank
- YMCA
- Gopal Foundation
Natalie Reynolds
Fund 2
Natalie Reynolds
Investor, Fund 2
Natalie Reynolds is the Operations Manager for the Private Capital Markets Association of Canada (PCMA)™, an organization at the forefront of Canada’s private capital markets. With over 500 members, the PCMA is the largest private capital markets community in the country, established in 2002, by a group of Canadian business professionals deeply involved in the exempt securities market.
In her multifaceted role at the PCMA, Natalie ensures the welfare of the association’s membership, oversees operations, manages events, and fosters seamless communication with the Board of Directors and Executive.
Serving as the primary point of contact for the association, Natalie thrives on collaborating with industry professionals and continuously expanding her knowledge about the private capital markets.
Private capital, as overseen by the PCMA, spans diverse asset classes, including private equity, venture capital, private debt, real estate, infrastructure, and natural resources. Typically structured as limited partnerships with investors referred to as LPs, General Partners (GPs) act as investment managers, orchestrating the deployment of capital from LPs.
The PCMA boasts a diverse membership base of over 300 firms from various industry backgrounds, including exempt market dealers, issuers, and professional advisors. These encompass a wide range of roles, from lawyers, accountants, and compliance officers to financial institutions, software providers, corporate communications advisers, and investment professionals.
Aligned with the PCMA’s vision, Natalie actively contributes to the association’s mission of being the effective national voice of the private capital markets in Canada, with a particular focus on the exempt market.
Natalie’s journey to the private capital markets was preceded by academic accomplishments, starting with a Psychology degree from the University of Prince Edward Island. She furthered her education in Toronto, obtaining a Master’s in Communications from Ryerson University.
She then managed large-scale research projects, culminating in the successful launch of her book, “Afton: A Place in Time,” in December 2012. The book, which received a government grant, garnered significant acclaim with over 200 copies sold within the first year.
Through facilitating collaboration between industry stakeholders and policymakers, the PCMA strives to enhance industry integrity and growth, while fortifying investor understanding and confidence. Natalie’s dedication to this vision, combined with her diverse experiences, positions her as a key player in the dynamic landscape of private capital markets in Canada.
Natalie is convinced that the substantial long-term economic impact of increased female participation in angel investing is undeniable. Joining OKGN WMAN has not only provided a sense of community and camaraderie but has also proven to be a profoundly impactful and rewarding experience.
Shannan Roberts, MBA
Fund 1
Shannan Roberts, MBA
Investor, Fund 1
Shannan Roberts started her first business at the age of 17. Since then, she has gained extensive experience in business and leadership, and along the journey has helped many entrepreneurs with strategic planning, marketing, supply chain management, and export strategy.
Currently, Shannan is passionate about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts and best practices. She recently completed the Executive Education Certificate from Cambridge University – DEI for Business Impact.
Over the years, her impressive portfolio of work includes supporting Indigenous communities and economic development corporations with economic planning, international trade missions, fund development, grant writing, project management for on-reserve economic development, working with Indigenous contractors on capacity building, and facilitating joint ventures and partnerships. Shannan was Manager of Aboriginal Business Development for Suncor Energy and Petro-Canada for about five years.
In 2012, she was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her volunteer mentoring efforts. With a Master of Business Administration from Royal Roads University, Shannan brings together a passion for people, community, and businesses to all her work.
“As a business owner myself, I am passionate about people and culture, with a keen focus on bringing communities together. I look forward to utilizing my unique combination of work experience with industry, government, the social profit sector, and Indigenous communities to help businesses expand and grow,” she says.
Shannan’s latest business, Prep Academy Tutors of Interior B.C., is a franchise she launched with her business partner, Rhona Stanislaus, during the summer of 2022. Prep Academy Tutors provides academic support, one-to-one and small-group tutoring, and career coaching to students across all grade levels and subjects.
Additionally, both Shannan and her business partner are moms. “So many women entrepreneurs are also working moms. As moms, we are often the caregivers for our family. We are nurturing others all the time and sometimes we feel like we can’t step back from that and do something for ourselves. I know I have felt that way. Being in business for yourself is a full-time job, and running your business can take over your life.”
Shannan is very active in her community, volunteering with multiple organizations and committees across the Okanagan. Prior to launching Prep Academy Tutors of Interior B.C., Shannan was consulting and managing projects for other organizations and businesses, including WeBC. As a prior WeBC Ambassador, Shannan has also participated in several WeBC programs including Taking the Stage®, team resiliency training workshops, and peer mentoring for women.
Shannan says entrepreneurship suits her lifestyle and her personal and professional aspirations, “I love connecting people and volunteering in my community.”
Shannan was also Vice President of Kelowna Women in Business and an investor in OKGN WMAN Angel Fund 1 which invests in women-founded and women-led businesses. She says she’s discovered that being part of a small group of women in business supporting one another is tremendously beneficial to both her business and toward personal development. “I like to remind myself that we are never the finished product! We are forever learning and evolving through continuous improvement.”
Lesley Hobden
Fund 1
Renee Warren
Fund 1
Renee Warren
Investor, Fund 1
Renée Warren is an award-winning entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, author, and founder of We Wild Women, which helps entrepreneurs get the media coverage of their dreams. She’s also the host of the celebrated podcast Into the Wild, featuring curated interviews with women entrepreneurs. It’s designed to inspire and give actionable advice to women launching or growing their dream business.
In 2012, Renée founded a content marketing and public relations (PR) agency, taking it from the ground up to a 7-figure, globally recognized company with clients from South Africa to San Diego. She has become sought after for her ability to create world-class PR strategies, marketing operations systems, content strategies, and classy media training.
Renée is the co-author of Get Covered! How to craft, pitch, and tell your start-up’s story to get more customers and is always challenging conventional ways to garner media and customer’s attention. A billboard for her tagline, “The best advice comes from someone who has successfully done it before,” her approach to PR, comes from over 25 years of experience as an entrepreneur and an unapologetic risk-taker.
Renée became interested in angel investing to gain deeper insight into how the process worked and to diversify her potential income. Most importantly, she wanted to help inspire other women to do the same. Many think that angel investing is only available to those with massive amounts of cash or detailed knowledge about the industry, which is one reason that often deters women from considering the opportunity.
OKGN WMAN Angel Fund (OKGN WMAN) was the best and most welcoming first step to becoming an angel investor, surrounded by brilliant women who are just as excited to take their investing knowledge to the next level while also supporting the other women in the fund. OKGN WMAN brings together women not only based on their potential financial contribution, but also on their diverse expertise.
Alison Oxtoby, LLB
Fund 1
Alison Oxtoby, LLB
Investor, Fund 1
Current role:
- Lawyer & Founder Balmains Law Corporation
Community activities:
- Board Member (President), Kelowna Estate Planning Society
Former role:
- Director, Wealth Services, BMO Harris Private Banking
Nikki Csek
Fund 1
Nikki Csek
Investor, Fund 1
Current role:
- CEO, Csek Creative
Community activities:
- former Board Member (President) Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Kelowna Association
Ashley Ramsay
Fund 1
Ashley Ramsay
Investor, Fund 1
Ashley Ramsay is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, investor, not-for-profit board member, speaker, and community builder, renowned specifically for her unwavering passion and commitment to advancing women’s equity in the realms of business and entrepreneurship. With a wealth of experience, she has successfully founded, built, and led four companies, starting at the age of 25. She also boasts an extensive parallel track record as a director on government Crown and not-for-profit boards.
In her latest entrepreneurial endeavor, Ashley achieved a remarkable feat by spearheading the growth of Yeti Farm Creative, now recognized as one of Canada’s premier animation studios. Under her leadership, the studio expanded to over 175 employees before a successful exit.
Ashley also stands as one of the few Canadian female animation company founders. This legacy serves as the driving force behind her dedication to empowering entrepreneurs across Canada, guiding these high-growth enterprises through the challenges of scaling up, exit planning and execution, and raising capital.
At a higher level, Ashley’s advisory role within her Crown appointments has significantly increased economic impact. She is passionate about making a difference to the economy, not only for British Columbians but for all Canadians.
Ashley’s outstanding contributions have garnered her prestigious accolades, including the Profit 100 Rising Stars, Okanagan’s Top 40 under 40, New Ventures B.C., Women to Watch, and the Business Examiner Business of the Year award, among others. Her commitment to excellence is further evident in repeat nominations for the Royal Bank Women of Influence.
Honoured by the TEC Leadership Forum and a longstanding member of the MacKay CEO Forum, Ashley has had the unique opportunity to sharpen her leadership skills among some of the country’s top Chief Executive Officers. Her journey reflects not just success, but a continuous commitment to excellence and a passion for fostering the growth and success of women in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Ashley is an investor OKGN WMAN Angel Fund 1, an active member of Indigenous Insight, and advises a handful of women-founded start-ups throughout British Columbia while enjoying a work-life-play balance in the fastest growing city in Canada, Kelowna, B.C.
Kelly Pedersen
Fund 1
Kelly Pedersen
Investor, Fund 1
Current role:
- Director, Indykko Limited (investment incubator)
Former role:
- Director, Tech 4 Kids Inc.
Dr. Meghan Van Vliet
Fund 1
Dr. Meghan Van Vliet
Investor, Fund 1
Current Role:
- Diagnostic Radiologist, BC Cancer
Miah Schull Olmsted
Fund 1
Miah Schull Olmsted
Investor, Fund 1&2
Current role:
- Student, UBC Okanagan, Bachelor of Fine Arts – BFA, Visual Communications and BA, Environmental Studies
- IDC Freelance Staff Instructor/Underwater Cinematographer, PADI
Community activities:
- Founding Chapter Lead, Dazzle Okanagan
- Zebras Unite (ecosystem for social impact founders, investors and thought leaders)
Former roles:
- Founder/CEO OCS Enterprises (SaaS consulting firm)
- Program Coordinator, Okanagan CoLab
- Undergraduate Academic Assistant & Undergraduate Research Assistant, UBCO
Maria Correia
Fund 1
Maria Correia
Investor, Fund 1
Current Role:
- Founder and Senior Consultant, WEvolve-Global
- Senior Consultant, Global Center for Gender Equality, Stanford University of Medicine
Former Roles:
- Lead, Innovation & Creative Ventures, Social and Urban Development, Sector Manager, South Asia Region, Manager, Africa Region, The World Bank
Jennifer Cole
OKGN WMAN Investor
Interested in investing in our next fund?
Joining is by invitation only and is extended to women who share our vision.
Carollynn Schafer, LLB
OKGN WMAN Co-founder & GP