Can you please share a bit about yourself and your background?
I grew up in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver is my home. I am a proud UBC alumni with a BA in International Relations. I’ve been a real estate professional for 25 years and am a member of the Appraisal Institute of Canada; I first started out in sales, and then moved on to valuations in 2002. A year later, I launched my boutique real estate appraisal business; my team covers the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.
What would you say is your biggest professional or personal success to date?
Real estate appraisals is a low-profile profession that is male dominated. I am really proud of the fact that I am one of the few minority women who owns a real estate valuation firm in Vancouver. Real estate is an economic driver in Vancouver and it will be interesting to see what happens to the real estate economy and the other sectors that benefit directly or indirectly with the new changes in taxation.
I have volunteered for parent committees and became frustrated that I didn’t have a vote at the Board level. Naturally, I ran for school trustee in 2011 and 2014 with the NPA. I wasn’t successful, however, failure in any endeavour is always a learning experience. I am a Gen-X “stealth fighter mom” of a Gen-Z teenage daughter. Demographers have intriguing names for the different generation of parents and “stealth fighter” for Gen-X is my favorite. I read in a presentation given to college admissions advisors that the Gen-X parent motto is “not with my child, you don’t.” I had a chuckle over that.
My relationship with my daughter is very important to me. The new generation of kids actually like hanging around with their parents unlike my generation who were embarrassed to be seen with our parents. Apparently, this is the new trend and it’s really great that Terminal City Club is welcoming to member’s children.
What motivates you?
Passion and knowledge is a motivator for me. If there is something I want to learn I will learn it.
What is your vision for success in your own life?
There is no end run for success. It takes time, hard work, passion, perserverance, and a bit of luck.
How do you spend your time when you need to relax?
I love to travel. I am also a foodie and really appreciate great wine. TCC is a reciprocal partner with the Outrigger Canoe Club in Hawaii where I spend my vacations. The swimming, snorkeling, and great weather is the perfect way to de-stress. During the evenings, enjoying great food and wine with the ocean behind you is a relaxing way to end the day in Hawaii.
Of course, when I am home, I enjoy Chef Dan’s Gourmet Dinners and Owen is the go-to guy for wine.
Why did you become a member of Terminal City Club?
I became a member in 2012 to enjoy TCC’s extensive wine list with gems that couldn’t be found anywhere else in the city. I also joined for the wonderful swimming pool and Fitness Centre managed by Sergio and his team. I have a personal trainer here, Milwina, who is extremely tough but absolutely amazing. The Fitness Centre team always exceeds my expectations.
How do you use the Club?
I have used many facets of the Club from ordering take-out from The Grill to attending the special event buffets and wine tastings. I have also attended sporting events booked by Member Services; Cory and his team deliver the best seats around and I can’t wait to experience the Rugby 7’s game this month.
Overall, Peter Jackman has done a spectacular job as General Manager to enhance the member experience.
Do you have advice for our younger TCC members trying to make their way in the world?
For younger TCC members I would say to not take any rejection, misunderstanding, or miscommunication personally. Use these opportunities as a way to do things differently next time.
Also, I believe that one’s social and cultural capital will be what will distinguish you from similar competitors going forward. Terminal City Club is the perfect place to increase soft skills and knowledge. As a member, take full advantage of what the Club offers.
