Meet Abigail. She's lived in Kamloops for four years!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I was born in Ghana, but I moved to Canada 16 years ago and have lived in Kamloops for the last four years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband Peter. He is such a positive, generous, loving and kind man. I’m always beaming when I’m around him.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Desert Rain Giftware located in downtown on Victoria Street. I was first drawn to the store by the name. The owner, Caroline, is very friendly and always greets you with a smile. The store has unique collections that make excellent gift ideas and home décors.
Describe yourself in one word.
Caring.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
The small town where I grew up in Ghana, just to spend time with family and old friends.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Spending time at the various lakes around Kamloops during the summer months.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
The first time I caught a fish. I screamed so loud amidst jumping up and down only to realize that I had drawn the attention of the entire lake while holding my tiny catch of rainbow trout.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Obtaining my CPA, CA designation and setting up my own firm. This has been a life long dream and I can’t wait to watch it grow and make a difference in people’s lives.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I grew up with my extended family and often, we would all get together to play board games. Oh, the joys of teasing your parents and older siblings when you win a game as a kid. That is about the only time you get to do that.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer at my local church and wherever and whenever I’m needed, I jump in to help. One project I’m looking forward to participating in this tax season is the community volunteer income tax program.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Eliminate country borders.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
To my garden in my backyard.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
Homelessness. Heading to work on winter mornings and seeing people wrapped in blankets sleeping in front of stores on Victoria Street makes me shiver. Kudos to New Life Mission and all the organizations out there battling homelessness!
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The people of Kamloops.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. To set up an educational scholarship fund at my elementary and secondary school for brilliant but needy students.
2. Tour Canada.
3. To go on a space tour.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I love gardening.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Abigail Owusu, Chartered Professional Accountant.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I like helping people, and accounting and tax is the way I know how. After spending 10+ years working in the accounting industry, I decided it was time to set out to start something of my own.
What is the goal of your business?
To serve the accounting needs of individuals, small and medium-size businesses and not-for-profits. I provide them with the financial tools for effective decision making and assist them to comply with federal and provincial tax and other reporting requirements.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Dealing with people who are close-minded.
What do you always find yourself saying?
How can I make a difference in someone else’s life today?
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
“If you can dream it, you can make it happen.”
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Michelle Obama. I would love to hear her secret about her successes as a wife, mother, career woman and of course, a First Lady.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Personally, I think shopping locally is empowering local businesses to succeed, and I care about them because if they succeed, I succeed.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being a mom to my 3-year-old daughter Bella.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My husband Peter for being on this incredible “journey” with me.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Caroline Arnott.
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!
