Meet Gina Davidson. She has was born and raised in Kamloops. She is the Manager and Culinary Director of HealthFare TCC Kamloops.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
Here. I have come and gone from Kamloops a few times but have been here for the past 5 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Too hard to narrow it to just one person. I have an amazing group of people around me and I enjoy my time with all of them.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Another tough one. Nu leaf. Great selection of local produce etc at super reasonable prices.
Describe yourself in one word.
Driven.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Back to Ghana Africa because it's a great escape from the western way of life. A tropical paradise were it's okay to take things slow and appreciate the little things.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Summer nights playing soccer.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Choking on potato salad while on a first date.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Being granted a high position as Head Chef, based on some amazing references and colleges of mine, who recognized my work ethics and talent, and backed me like I have never had anyone do for me before. Then, I met one of the most supportive and uplifting woman, I've ever worked with, to create a super dynamic team.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My mom did an amazing job at making things special and memorable for my siblings and I. From birthdays to Christmas holidays to summer vacations, she thought of every last detail. I have some really wonderful childhood memories.
One would be making her sit and watch me sing the entire soundtrack of the lion king front to back, with giant head phones and a wooden spoon as a microphone. I'm pretty sure my encore was popping in the beauty and the beast CD. Haha.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteered to cook for the BC Games when it was here this year. I also often take extra food downtown and hand it out to people who could use a good meal.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That people would focus more on the value of life. If everyone saw the true value of each and every life, than a lot of this senseless, hate fuelled, violence towards one another, wouldn't exist.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
To a giant bolder at the end of a 5K loop, that you can sit on in the middle of a waterfall. Can't say where it is my son would be mad that I'm sharing "our spot" ;)
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I love what's happening on the Northshore, with all these new business, so I'm looking forward to seeing that continuing to grow. I think there's some cool ideas coming with the open lot at mac park and the possible year round farmers market downtown.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The great outdoors and our weather.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Get a few more Healthfare Restaurant locations open, so I can open my bucket list restaurant concept.
Learn how to play the drums.
Meet Beyoncé lol.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I like my bananas under ripe and green.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
IG and FB
What is the name of your business/organization?
Healthfare Restaurants TCC.
Why did you get into/start this business?
To provide healthy whole foods, fast. To show that fuelling your body with great ingredients, doesn't have to be expensive, complicated or hard to find.
What is the goal of your business?
To connect and educate people about real whole foods.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
not to take things too seriously.
What do you always find yourself saying?
I need a coffee.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Everything happens for a reason.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Because its the responsible thing to do. Our local small businesses are the backbone of our community and we depend on each other for support. I also like to shop at Fisherman's market for the freshest seafood, Chop n block for the freshest meats, all the awesome vendors at the Kamloops regional farmers market and Desert hill farm.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My amazing son.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
D because he works hard for us.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Paul Denby the micro herb teacher from Arthur Hatton with a really cool story.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thanks for reaching out and choosing us to be In Focus. We love reading this column, and look forward to seeing who is up next!
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!
