Meet Jessica. Jessica has lived in Kamloops for 5 years. She is passionate about making a difference in education and owns a real estate company.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I grew up in North Vancouver. I have lived in Kamloops since 2013.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband Steven and our 2 beautiful daughters Madison (5 yrs) Morgan (3 weeks) because they are my world. We live in a busy day and time adn any day I can spend with these 3 is a great day.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Far & Wide have you been into this new store in downtown Kamloops... Do it!! This store brings in amazing items that you won't find at the big box stores!
Describe yourself in one word.
Driven.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
To our family house in Seachelt on the beach. It's simply paradise and so relaxing to see and hear the ocean.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
RibFest! We've been here since 2013 and its still my favourite event in Kamloops. Kamloops is one of those towns that offers so many events and activities for the public that picking one is hard.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
When I was 18 I bungee jumped in Taupo New Zealand and my pants ripped... good thing it didn't show that on the video.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I attended BCIT for Business and Sales and I was chosen to be the valedictorian of my graduating class. That was a great honour to be selected for and a huge moment in my life.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I am lucky to have a very large family and so I have many very fond childhood memories, but I do recall many summers with my sister, mom and Granny every summer digging for clams and walking along the beach in Qualicum BC.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Well I am involved with the PAC at Albert McGowan Elementary school where my eldest daughter Madison attends and I am on the Fundraising committee to get more playground equipment for the school. I think the more that parents can get involved in the education and resources of our school districts have for our children the better off we will all be, as the kids are our future.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That every kids goes to school having had breakfast and a packed lunch. Seriously its so important and there are just too many kids going to school without having had breakfast.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone? Any of our amazing Kamloops wineries!!!
More schools!! We need more schools in Kamloops to accommodate all these kids. Kamloops is a great place to raise a family and we are reaching towards a population goal of 100,000+. More and more families are moving to town and schools are full.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
It's energy you can see it in all those who live here and that Kamloops has a true 4 seasons.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Take my husband to New Zealand and London
2. Buy a cabin on a lake
3. Finally go RV'ing (aka glamping) with my girls and husband
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
My husband and I met on eHarmony. Our paths must have crossed a dozen times before we met and it took meeting online to finally get us face to face.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
My website.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Jessica Sutherland Personal Real Estate Corporation
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have my Interior Design Degree from BCIT and my husband owns a Residential Renovation Company, SutherlandStructures, I have been helping people redesign and renovate their homes for over 10 years and i thought why not follow my passion into Real Estate.
What is the goal of your business?
To help my clients find their dream home.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Balance. I truly love what I do and I love being a mom and a wife but we often forget to take time out for ourselves.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Live. Life. Laugh
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Just try it... and if it doesn't work change it
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My sister, she lives in LA, and she just visited for 2 weeks but any day I get to spend with her is a a great day.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To help support the local business. That is what living in Kamloops is all about.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Becoming a mom. Honestly its the most amazing thing.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My Husband, 3 weeks ago our 2nd daughter was born and my husband Steven has stepped into dad of 2 role amazingly and surrendered to the fact that ladies now rule his life. I love you babe!
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Crystal Becker, Peekaboo Beans
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!
