Meet Brettainy! Brettainy is originally from Calgary and has been living with her family here in Kelowna for almost two years now. She loves spending quality time with her daughter Alice, and paddle boarding on the lake in the summertime.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I am originally from Calgary, and have lived in Kelowna for almost two years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My three year old daughter, Alice. Alice is full of life, and so imaginative. We always have fun together.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
My favourite Kelowna store is Frock & Fellow. It feels like a glamorous treasure hunt, there is always incredible vintage wear. I also love Oranj Fitness for all of my workout attire.
Describe yourself in one word.
Energetic!
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would go to summer-time Kelowna, the best place in the world!
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Paddle boarding on the lake, and of course visiting the wineries.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I am not easily embarrassed, but recently I went to work with my ballet bodysuit inside out!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Becoming a mother has been hands-down the most inspiring thing that has happened to me. I know it sounds cliché, but being a parent shifted my entire outlook on life. This inspired me to be more grateful, and to really chase my dreams! For example, taking the risk to move to Kelowna. Having my daughter gave me the courage, and knowledge to see anything I desire in life is possible.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favourite childhood memory is being selected by my dance studio as the 'Best Performer. Every two years a student was selected among the dancers to represent the studio with a special award. It made me feel appreciated, recognized, and solidified my goal of working towards a career in dance.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
My favourite community event is the Kelowna Dance & Performing Arts Solo Showcase. Each year our competitive soloist team perform to raise money for different local charities. The 2018 Solo Showcase raised almost $3000, and the company has donated over $10,000 since 2010. It was an honour to volunteer for such a great community event.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Teach meditation in schools.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Rotary beach. A fun playground, with lots of space to paddle board!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see a safer, cleaner downtown. I know there is no easy solution to this problem, but I do believe if we worked together, everyone would benefit.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The weather, the incredible views, and of course the wonderful people.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel with my family to Australia.
2. Hike Machu Pichu.
3. Starting a Kelowna vegan Bed & Breakfast (My husband thinks I'm crazy!)
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was a cheerleader for the Calgary Stampeders.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram is @barrewithbrett
What is the name of your business/organization?
I work as the certified Royal Academy of Dance Ballet Teacher at Kelowna Dance & Performing Arts. I teach ballet to children ages 2.5-18!
Why did you get into/start this business?
I started ballet at the age of three, and decided in my early teens I would like to pursue dance as my career. I went on to obtain my BA in Dance at the University of Calgary. After graduating university, I studied with the Royal Academy of Dance.
What is the goal of your business?
My goal is to train technical ballet dancers while aiming to make ballet inclusive. My classes are focused in the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, and I strive to make ballet fun, energetic and exciting. I want my students to love ballet JUST as much, if not MORE, then jazz or hip-hop (for most kids, that is a tall order) Along with training strong technical dancers, I look to make each child feel welcome, valuable, and confident. These skills can translate beyond the studio into the student's future.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Maintaining balance. I want to do everything! I am notorious for over-booking myself.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn't change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Let's take some deep breaths" Said to my three year old daughter (and myself)
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Each day write down one thing you are grateful for. Start to look every day for that thing to write down!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My family! My husband Kyle and daughter Alice are my absolute favourite people to spend time with.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Kelowna is a town of entrepreneurs, who give so much back to the community. I love to shop locally, and support those who work to make Kelowna the vibrant and fun city it is.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Achieving my Registered Teacher status with the Royal Academy of Dance.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Melodie Sharma, owner of Kelowna Dance & Performing Arts. Miss. Melodie is positive, professional and works so hard behind the scenes! I admire her both as a business woman, and friend.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Chantelle Lacelle, owner of Scarf Mama.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Brett is a passionate fitness and dance instructor, originally from Calgary. From her first taste of the stage until now, dance lights her up! She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with a minor in Kinesiology, and is a certified ballet teacher through the Royal Academy of Dance. She has put hundreds of dance students aged 5-18 through successful ballet examinations, and teaches at Kelowna Dance & Performing Arts.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
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