Bio: Johanna is a marketing strategist, content creator, and entrepreneur who has built a successful personal brand through mountain biking and social media. With a background in corporate marketing and experience running her agency, she combines strategic insight with creative execution and storytelling to help brands connect authentically with their audiences. Johanna has leveraged her brand to launch other business ventures in the bike world, all while growing her presence as a sponsored athlete and influencer in the outdoor industry.

Kelly Jones is a Business Banking Advisor with over 20 years of experience across retail, commercial, and strategic banking roles. Focused on setting up businesses for success, she specializes in helping entrepreneurs navigate the financial landscape, including selecting the right banking options to support growth and operational needs. With a hands-on and approachable style, Kelly provides practical insights and guidance to assist entrepreneurs in building sustainable and thriving ventures.

Kelly Keil is a seasoned media publisher and marketing strategist with over 30 years of experience in both print and digital advertising. As Publisher of The Peak, the local news company, Kelly has led her team through the evolving media landscape, blending traditional print with innovative digital strategies to keep community news vibrant and sustainable. Beyond publishing, she has built a career helping small businesses, non-profits, and brands tell their stories authentically, through campaigns that connect, engage, and deliver results. Passionate about entrepreneurship, Kelly thrives on sharing practical insights with the next generation of business builders.

Matthew Wate is a Personal Account Manager with First Credit Union, where he has spent the past three years supporting clients with their lending needs. With a background in operations, insurance, and investment advice, he brings a well-rounded perspective to delivering tailored financial solutions.

Ross Cooper was raised in Vancouver and Victoria, beginning his career in banking before moving to Powell River and shifting into real estate in 1993. Over three decades, he built a distinguished career that began with recognition as Canada’s top new performer and concluded with a place among the top 1% of RE/MAX agents internationally. Alongside real estate, Ross successfully operated a property management company and produced local real estate advertising for television.

A dedicated Rotarian for nearly 30 years, Ross has served in numerous leadership roles, including twice as President of the Powell River Club, Assistant Governor at the District level, and currently District Membership Chair. He will share how serving your community not only benefits others but also enhances your business, leadership, and professional experience.

Taran Brown began his career in the automotive industry in 2011, apprenticing as a Parts Person within his family’s business. He quickly advanced, earning his Red Seal certification in 2015. Eager to broaden his skills and gain new perspectives, Taran stepped away in 2016 to work as a Territory Sales Manager for a leading truck equipment manufacturer specializing in hydraulic fluid power. For six years, he built strong industry relationships and deepened his expertise in sales and technical solutions.

In early 2022, Taran returned home to Powell River to take over the family business, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a fresh vision for the company’s future. His journey reflects both a dedication to professional growth and a strong commitment to continuing the legacy of local, family-owned enterprise.