Meet Taylor Petri! Taylor was born in Surrey but has lived in Kamloops for most of her life. She is a strong woman who enjoys skiing, hiking, and kicking butt at air hockey!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I was born in Surrey and moved to Kamloops at 2 years old. I've been living here in Kamloops for the last 23 years!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Probably my Grandma. She has always been a huge support for me. I could spend hours at her house just talking, learning about family history, and reminiscing on old times.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Life Ink Tattoo! The artists there are rad and I love the atmosphere in the shop. Plus, I enjoy getting tattoos.
Describe yourself in one word.
Strong.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
New York - It holds a very special place in my heart.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Skiing, hiking, or going to Fun Factor to beat whoever I'm with at some air hockey.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Oh man, there have been lots. One that sticks out for me was a time in grade eight and a girl I went to school with pantsed me on the bus in front of everyone as I was getting off. I was mortified.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
When I went to school at Twin Rivers Education Center. Up until I went to "TREC," I didn't have the best experiences in school and wanted to give up. I have to give so much credit to the teachers I had while attending that school as they inspired not only myself but all the other students there. Not once did they give up on us when others had in the past. They treated us like family and it inspired me every day to keep on going when at times I didn't want to. If it weren't for them, I'm not sure I would have graduated.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Spending the majority of my summers up at the cabin my family had at Green Lake. I was always out in the bush somewhere. Taught me a lot about appreciating the simple things in life. Was where I caught my first fish, learned how to shoot, cut wood, make fires, ride horses, etc. Lots of good memories there.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have volunteered at The Food Bank a few times in the past. I also always make sure to donate clothes to local thrift shops and people in need.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
The stigma behind mental health as well as adequate resources to seek help! Mental health is just as important as your physical health and it's a very real thing. Many people still seem to think people who suffer from mental health issues are "faking it" and don't understand the depth and severity behind it. It is nice to see the stigma slowly breaking and improving but there is still a long way to go.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Somewhere in the bush! Whether it be going for a hike, finding a new waterfall, or just a random drive to nowhere on a dirt road.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would like to see more activities for teenagers and young adults. I do believe that is something Kamloops is lacking.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
It's a beautiful city with a small-town vibe.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Travel to every continent.
- Drive across Canada.
- Drive down the Oregon Coast to California.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was in the movie Fido as a kid as well as a Kellogg's Yogos commercial.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook or Instagram.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Accepting that not everyone will have the same heart as you do.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"What a life."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Don't compare yourself to others! All of our stories are so unique. Focus on being the best version of you.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Any of my family members. Life is short, I appreciate and value any time I can get to spend with them.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Support your community to help it thrive! Show your people love.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Learning to accept and love the things about myself that make me unique.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My mom, Kim Neen. She has been my rock throughout the years and is the strongest woman I know. I've learned from her to fight for what is right and never give up. She has a huge heart and deserves the absolute world.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Kim Neen.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Be kind. You never know the challenges other people are facing. Life is too short. Treat people how you would want to be treated.
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!
