Meet Kim! She's initially from Ottawa. But has lived in Kamloops for 35 years running her very own dance studio!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Myself, I am an introvert and in solitude when I am at my most creative. It is how I recharge my batteries.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Golden Buddha- they have the best mix of fun and funky stuff!
Describe yourself in one word.
Strong
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
NYC- the food, culture, entertainment, shopping, and sights are amazing. You can get it all in the Big Apple!
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Kayaking
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Having to watch my stepdad, Thom Bell battle cancer. He was given a prognosis of 2 years in 1999 but passed away in 2009. He fought for 10 years with the most incredible outlook. He was grateful for every single day he got to share with his family and friends. His positive spirit was infectious. He was kind and generous to and for as long as his body would allow, he brought immense joy to the people who knew him. He passed away on his own terms and with dignity and grace.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
When I was about 6 years old, my Dad refurbished a van, complete with red shag carpeting, beds, and a small kitchen. We drove to Florida in this van for a family vacation. I'm sure my brother and I fought the whole way, but I look back on it with such fond memories.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am excited to be helping out with the BC Winter games this month. I will be assisting in the feeding of 1200 athletes and coaches.
My dance studio annually participates in the Children's Arts Festival at Riverside Park. We get to work with children and families to share our passion for dance. We feel strongly about the importance of the Arts not only in our community but in the lives of young families.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
For the U.S. to wake up and DO SOMETHING about the gun control laws in their country. The senseless violence and tragedy that plagues them are horrific. The politicians have the power to do so but what will it take to act on it. Perhaps maybe if and when their children become victims?
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
There is a spectacular view of the entire city up behind Nicola Wagon Road. It is beautiful up there.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
It is vital for our community to appreciate, support, recognize and value the importance of the Arts as much as we do sports. The impact it has on our lives, it has much value which I feel is overlooked. I think there needs to be much more balance between the two.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The people who live here. I have watched it grow over the past 35 years into such a diverse and lively community of incredible people.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1.To be rich enough to own lots of land to have an animal sanctuary.
2.To be a grandma
3. To travel across Canada in an RV
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am a hardcore Canucks fan. I record every single game so that I can watch them late at night after getting home from the studio.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook, Instagram, and Email.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Akimbo Dance Studios
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have loved dance from a very early age. It gave me a way of expressing myself that nothing else could. I grew up in a family of self-employed people. I thought if I could make a living out of the thing that made me the happiest, what more could you ask for?
What is the goal of your business?
We help our students to develop confidence, teamwork, body awareness, physical and mental discipline and emotional resilience through exploration of the art of dance.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Working so much that I sacrifice many opportunities for R & R outside the studio. Remembering that I need to take time off once in a while has been hard.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"There is always a solution; I just haven't found it yet"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Teach your kids how to change a toilet paper roll. Haha. Happiness comes from the choices you make.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Jeff Goldblum.- he fascinates me
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
As a small business owner, I know how important it is to support one another. Keeping it in our community can only benefit us all.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising my son.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Bonnie McBride. She is my hero. Her tireless commitment to her family, her volunteer work, her compassion for animals and her overall kind spirit is a real inspiration.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Bonnie McBride
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I would like to thank the families of Kamloops for their support with my dance studio. We are celebrating 18 years of success, and we couldn't have done it without the amazing ADS families we have the opportunity of working with. I am truly grateful.
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!
