Top 10 business people

Our 12th annual top 10 business people of the year

This year’s Kootenay Business Top 10 business people have diverse careers, businesses and backgrounds. But they all have one thing in common: passion—for the reasons behind their business; for their communities; for the region and the Kootenay way of life; and most of all, for the people they serve.

Cranbrook » Oralie Girard

Oralie Girard brings an enthusiasm and honesty to her business that, after 13 years continues to resonate
Kimberley » Nicole Leclair-Dodd

Nicole Leclair-Dodd planted roots in Kimberley and is now seeing Sprout Grocery begin to grow to its full potential
Nelson » Jon Meyer

Jon Meyer is passionate about everything he does in life—including his work—making Oso Negro an exceptional roastery.
Creston » Al and Marleen Hoag

Marleen and Al Hoag added a new crop to the fertile Creston Valley in 2003: wine grapes.
Castlegar » Stuart Ady

A strong sense of community has given Stuart Ady and his wife, Mary Ann, a deeper connection to their customers
Cranbrook » Patty Axenroth

Patty Axenroth’s philosophy has helped her build the West Kootenay Pennywise over the last 30 years
Golden » Miro Micovsky

Golden's tourism marketing began in earnest two years ago when Micovsky was hired as the marketing director.
Rossland » Jane Grey and Stephanie Cameron

Both Grey and Cameron were family physicians who had worked together in Rossland.
East Kootenay » Bill Bennett

Bennett’s love of the outdoor life has been integral to his career arc.
Fernie » Steve Kuijt

Coming to work every day is easy when you love your job as much as Steve Kuijt loves his.