What REALTOR® of the Year Means to Me, to Our Community, and to the Real Estate Profession

There are moments in a career that cause you to pause and reflect. Moments that bring both gratitude and responsibility into sharp focus.

Being named REALTOR® of the Year is one of those moments for me.

This recognition honours leadership, professionalism, integrity, and meaningful contributions to clients, colleagues, and the broader community. For that reason, it means more to me than I can fully express, but I would like to try.

Read the full Castanet feature here.

What This Award Means to Me Personally

Real estate is deeply personal work. It is about people and the trust they place in me during some of the most significant transitions of their lives.

Over the years, clients have invited me into their stories.

New beginnings.

Difficult transitions.

Big dreams.

Brave decisions.

Quiet hopes.

Tough goodbyes.

Every one of those moments matters.

To be recognized for the values that guide my work, care, integrity, consistency, and connection, is profoundly meaningful. It reflects the intention I bring to every relationship and every home I represent.

This award is not about a single transaction or a single year. It is a reminder that how we show up matters just as much as what we deliver. Listening carefully. Acting thoughtfully. Advocating honestly. Being present when it matters most.

That is the work I believe in.

What It Means for the Community I Love

If you know me, you know how deeply I value community, particularly the communities of Gallagher’s Canyon and the greater Okanagan.

Community does not happen by accident. It grows when people come together, support one another, and create opportunities for connection.

Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of helping organize and support events that bring people together for a greater purpose, including:

• A Night to Remember, our New Year’s Eve fundraiser in support of the Central Okanagan Food Bank
• Tea-Time at Gallagher’s, celebrating arts and culture while supporting the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra
• Coats for Community and Children’s Miracle Network initiatives
• The growing and much-loved Gallagher’s Parade of Homes

Receiving this award feels like a reflection of what we have built together. It highlights the power of community-led work and the difference it can make in people’s lives.

The truth is simple.

Real estate does not build community. People do.

I am grateful to be part of a community that shows up, gives back, and supports one another so generously.

What It Means for the Real Estate Profession

Our industry is evolving, and in many ways, for the better.

Today’s buyers are informed, thoughtful, and intentional. Sellers are navigating a more balanced and nuanced market. REALTORS® have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to lead with clarity, professionalism, and genuine care.

This award reinforces the vision I hold for our profession.

A profession defined by honesty and transparency.

Strong communication.

Ethical standards.

Deep market knowledge.

Service without pressure.

Leadership within our communities.

A focus on long-term relationships over short-term transactions.

Real estate is no longer simply about helping people move from one property to another. It is about helping people move forward in a way that aligns with their lives, their values, and their goals.

That is the standard I strive to uphold.

My Commitment Moving Forward

Awards are meaningful, but they are also motivating. They serve as a reminder to keep learning, keep improving, and keep leading with intention.

As we move into 2026, my commitment remains clear:

• Continuing to mentor and collaborate within the REALTOR® community
• Expanding educational content for buyers and sellers
• Leading community events that bring people together
• Offering honest, grounded insights on our evolving market
• Highlighting the lifestyle, culture, and connection that make the Okanagan such a special place to call home

I believe deeply in this work. I believe in this region. And I believe in the people who choose to build their lives here.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To every client who trusted me.

To every neighbour who participated in our events.

To every volunteer, donor, and community partner.

To every colleague who supported me along the way.

Thank you.

This recognition belongs to all of us.

Read the full Castanet feature here.

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