Meet Ryan! He's originally from Port Moody. Moved to Penticton in 1993 and followed in his family footsteps in working in the automotive business!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favorite people to spend time with are my Family - especially my kids!!
What is your favourite local store in Penticton and why?
There are too many to list - we are so fortunate in Penticton to have a diverse mix of places to choose from!
Describe yourself in one word.
Driven
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Top of my bucket list is Peru - specifically Machu Pichu. I find myself attracted to the culture - history, and spirituality of this place.
What is your favourite activity in Penticton?
One of my favorite things to do is grab the family, a coffee and walk to the farmers market. We are truly blessed to have such an event/destination in our little city.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
At risk of sounding cliché, my children are truly inspiring. Also, I had the privilege of joining the Boyd Team 5 years ago. I have found that enjoying the work that I get to do every day and being able to immerse myself in the community genuinely inspiring.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I am fortunate that I have so many great childhood memories. From family reunions to camping trips. My Grandparents owned a little place in Point Roberts that was a reason for the family to gather often. Those are a few of my favorite memories.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
In addition to the opportunities to help through the business, I joined the Peachfest Board of Directors 2 years ago. I specifically help organize a skateboard competition. I now find that supporting our community has brought a new satisfaction that I've not known before, until giving back to the community.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I worry that we spend too much time worrying about everything. Feels like all we hear on the news is ugly and bad. I worry we don't focus enough on the good. Life is Short
Where would you sneak away to in Penticton to spend some time alone?
So many little cafes - wine bars- craft brew houses - it's so easy to slip out for some quick me time at any one of these options.
Where would you like to see positive change in Penticton and why?
Our little town has for so to long been known for its 'retirement' appeal. A positive change for me would be to bring more focus to our youth and young families. The move has slowly begun with all the new great things happening around Pentiction.
What do you think makes Penticton great?
We are a true destination for anyone who wants to see so many great things. Peachfest to Farmers Market - to Wineries and Craft Breweries- Triathalons and Bike Races. World class concerts and an excellent sports following.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1.I've always wanted to drive the Oregon Coast and camp all the way down.
2. I would like to return to Germany, where my father is from, and revisit family.
3. Continue to educate and hopefully one day acquire a degree in business and marketing.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I love my job!!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin
What is the name of your business/organization?
Boyd Autobody and Glass Penticton
Why did you get into/start this business?
This was a natural path for my life to follow, it runs in the family. I have been in the automotive business all of my life in some form. I joined the Boyd Team 5 years ago.
What is the goal of your business?
I truly feel the goal of our business is to help People. Our company consists of mostly unpleasant situations. It can often be confusing and frustrating. I believe that we help by making the best of a bad situation.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Work is busy; Life is busy. The biggest struggle is finding a balance that makes everyone happy while making sure I'm happy.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I don't believe in regret. I would do it all over again
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Good Lord" "Living the Dream" seem to commonly used by me!!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
We only live once. As I age my advice for myself seems to chance, but one that remains the same is to simply "Be Happy" by any means.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Simon Sinek - Motivational Speaker and Idealist. I find his ideas to fall in line with mine. His books have sent me on the road to self-education and inspired me to employ a healthy culture within my business.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
There is nothing more important than supporting local business. These businesses are what keep our city running.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Aside from my children. I'm proud of how our business has been able to support our community. Myself and My team were blessed with 2016 Chamber Business of the Year.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I think all the young entrepreneurs are trying to make it Penticton deserve a shout out. All the volunteers that support so many wonderful events in our city.
My choice for the PentictonNow In Focus spotlight is:
Joe Chwachka - Home Hardware
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by emailing [email protected]. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
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. Thank you, Penticton!
