Meet Amy Tucker. Amy has lived in Kamloops for 15 years now. She is a gritty woman who enjoys running, swimming, cycling, and more.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
15 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
James Krause is my favourite person. James is a fitness trainer and really encouraged me to start weight training and develop a good fitness and nutrition routine. When we train together, time goes by so fast. He truly empowers me to achieve my goals.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Runners Sole Kamloops is my favourite local store. The owner Wayne Richardson and his staff make fitness a priority for all shapes and sizes. I love their running training programs, community support, and the clothing/accessories they sell. Great service.
Describe yourself in one word.
Grit.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Elephant Island, Antarctica - I want to follow the steps of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. For me, this would be the ultimate journey to explore a world I have only studied and read about.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Running, swimming, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, cross country skiing, weight training, and spending time in nature.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Today? Every day I embarrass myself, but the most embarrassing in my life is giving a formal presentation in front of a 100 plus professionals wearing a formal pant-suit and the fly was wide open. Thankfully, I was wearing bright red underwear.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I think the most inspiring thing that happened to me is that I was able to obtain a post-secondary education and become a university professor - against all odds. I grew up in a very dysfunctional family and suffered years of physical abuse. I started running away from home at the age of 12 to escape the abuse. I spent most of my teen year living in an out of Foster care, group homes, and living on the streets. What most people don't realize is that I was at least safe from the destructive behaviour of my home life. Not saying, this life was any better, but it was my "choosing." While this was occurring, I still managed to go to school and continue my studies. At the age of 17, I became pregnant and had my first child at the age of 18. You could say my daughter saved my life. She is the reason, I am here today. It was not a clear path, but I started upgrading my education and working part-time at a local donut shop. It took me seven years to obtain my Bachelor's degree, but I did it. All it took was one person to believe in me, that person was a University Professor named Grace O'Farrell. She inspired me to continue my education and go on to graduate school and eventually work towards a Doctoral degree. I told her I wanted to be a professor just like her. To this day, we still keep in touch and even co-published a book together. Looking back, I would say, it is other people who inspire me but if my story can help someone else towards achieving their goals, I am open to sharing my story.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Riding my bicycle with my sisters.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer at local racing events such as Boogie the Bridge, Kamloops Marathon Spring River Run Off, and other events. I am keen on supporting local athletes working towards their goals. You can usually spot me as the lead cyclist for these events, guiding people to the finish line.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
If I could change one thing in the world, I would make higher education accessible to everyone and provide support to families such as daycare and care centres. The aim would be to make it possible for students to achieve their goals.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Juniper Bike Ranch.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
More bike lanes please, more bike paths, and safer places to ride.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
Community of amazing people.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Ironman 2020 - Arizona.
2. Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail.
3. Cycling across Canada.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am a bird watcher.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Email.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Thompson River University.
Why did you get into/start this business?
Life-time goal (get paid to do what I love).
What is the goal of your business?
Educate and empower others to achieve their goals.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I am a contract worker. It means I am hired term to term. I have been teaching since 2007.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"I am so grateful for this life."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Believe.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Catharine Pendrel, Olympic Champion.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Yes - I am a minimalist and believe in buying local.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Obtaining my high-school diploma.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
James Krause, he is just an amazing human being.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Catharine Pendrel, Olympic Champion.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thank you for this time.
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. Thank you, Kamloops.
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!
