The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce has finalized its Top 40 honourees. Over the next few months, biographies and photos of the honourees will be announced.
Be sure to follow 乌鸦传媒 for updates on who乌鸦传媒檚 who in the Top 40.
GARY PARMAR
With over 20 years of experience, Gary Parmar is a trusted business advisor dedicated to helping clients maximize wealth, minimize taxes, and achieve long-term success. As a Partner and Regional Leader of Private Enterprise & Technology at MNP in Kelowna, he specializes in tax planning, business structuring, succession planning, and financial management for private enterprises and family-owned businesses.
A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) with an ICD.D designation from the University of Toronto乌鸦传媒檚 Rotman School of Management, Gary combines deep expertise with a passion for mentorship and strategic leadership. His work has shaped emerging industries, including technology and cannabis, positioning MNP as a leader in these fields. A dedicated coach and mentor, he has spent over two decades developing future accounting professionals, fostering a culture of learning and excellence.
Beyond his professional success, Gary is deeply engaged in the business and nonprofit community. He serves as a Board Director for Accelerate Okanagan, mentors entrepreneurs, and supports philanthropic initiatives such as the BC Cancer Foundation and the Gopal Family Foundation. Recognized for his contributions, he continues to empower businesses, professionals, and the broader community with his leadership and expertise.
PAMELA PEARSON
Pamela Pearson is a dynamic leader dedicated to fostering community, innovation, and operational excellence. As the Director of Operations at Sentes Automotive, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the company's culture, structure, and growth, leading a team of over 200 professionals while championing diversity and inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Pamela乌鸦传媒檚 leadership extends beyond business乌鸦传媒攕he made history as one of the youngest and only the 8th female President of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, spearheading advocacy efforts and economic initiatives that strengthened the local business community. Passionate about mentorship and connection, she founded Pam乌鸦传媒檚 Ladies Happy Hour, a networking group that has grown to over 350 women, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
A dedicated philanthropist, Pamela has chaired the BC Cancer Foundation乌鸦传媒檚 Discovery Luncheon for nine years, raising over $1 million. Her commitment to giving back has deepened following her own breast cancer diagnosis, further inspiring her advocacy work.
Recognized as Kelowna's Woman of the Year (2023) and a CADA Laureate Nominee (2024), Pamela continues to lead with authenticity, resilience, and passion, making a lasting impact on the automotive industry, business community, and beyond.
KAREN MASON
Karen Mason is the co-founder and executive director of Supporting Survivors of Abuse and Brain Injury through Research (SOAR), a registered charity focused on raising awareness of brain injuries caused by intimate partner violence (IPV-BI). With over 35 years of experience in both non-profit and for-profit sectors, Karen's impactful career includes key leadership roles at four local organizations. Notably, as executive director of the Kelowna Women乌鸦传媒檚 Shelter, she increased the shelter's finances from a deficit to a surplus, launched successful programs, and secured significant funding for housing projects.
Karen is a passionate advocate for survivors of IPV-BI, a public health issue affecting hundreds of thousands of Canadian women each year. Under her leadership, SOAR has garnered national and international attention, providing training, research, and support services, including the first online peer support group for IPV-BI survivors. She has presented on this issue over 75 times to diverse audiences, contributing to the inclusion of IPV-BI training in BC's Gender-Based Violence Action Plan.
In addition to her professional achievements, Karen is a dedicated volunteer, contributing to numerous causes and organizations in the Kelowna community. A values-driven and collaborative leader, Karen strives to empower individuals and elevate their strengths to achieve greater impact.
RENXIAN TAN
Renxian Tan is the Owner and Director of Haowen Homes Ltd., a reputable construction company known for high-quality residential projects in both Alberta and British Columbia. With a Bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems, a Postgraduate Certificate in Computer Science, and certifications in Project Management, Risk Management, and Financial Management, Renxian combines technical expertise with strategic leadership. His qualifications as a Licensed Builder in two provinces enhance his credibility in the construction industry, enabling him to navigate complex regulatory environments and deliver projects that positively impact local communities.
Renxian is a dedicated advocate for cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. He is the Founder of the Kelowna Tree Planting Festival and the Kelowna Chinese History Committee, and a Founding Board Member of the Kelowna Chinese United Association. His leadership has fostered cultural exchange and social cohesion within Kelowna, making a lasting impact on the local community. Renxian's philanthropic efforts include volunteering for various initiatives and promoting environmental awareness.
A passionate community leader, Renxian has earned numerous accolades, including recognition for his advocacy on heritage preservation during discussions around Bill 44. His commitment to both business and community development continues to shape a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive future.
There are some minor changes in the scheduling of the honourees due to major health concerns or out of country of some, so I will resend a schedule by the end of the day and will work on a master bio document so that you have everything by the end of the week. For Example, Gary Parmar is this week as I had his head shot and we didn乌鸦传媒檛 hit the deadline last week.
In the meantime, please do not hesitate to connect with any questions or concerns.
