The Kelowna Chamber’s Top 40 Program has returned for 2024. The program recognizes and honours individuals in the community who take leadership, philanthropy, and business to the next level.
Honouree – Paul Tonita Partner, Pushor Mitchell LLP
“A Ship in the harbour is safe, but that’s not what ships are meant for.”
Paul Tonita is a Partner at Pushor Mitchell LLP. Upon completion of law school, Paul clerked for six judges at the British Columbia Supreme Court. That experience provided him with tools and a framework for how to combat issues that arise in the practice of law, a vision of how courts view said issues, and how decisions are made. This has been beneficial for Paul’s clients and with his involvement in community.
Paul is on the Board of Directors for the Chamber Music Kelowna Society and the Urban Development Institute (UDI) u40 group, and he co-mentors summer/articling students at Pushor Mitchell. Paul strives to lead by example, and demonstrating an exceptional work product builds teamwork, trust, and respect. His positive attitude and strong work ethic inspires colleagues to produce the best results possible for the firm and their clients.
One of Paul’s most memorable and impactful contributions was a three-month teaching role in Kenya. He also helped build a protective fence for the school and provided schoolchildren with shoes. Looking back on his achievements, his most valuable one is raising two wonderful children with his wife Danielle.
Honouree – Kristian de Pont
Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Good Sorts Property Services Owner & President - Prime Concrete Coatings
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou
Launching Good Sorts in the middle of a pandemic as a newcomer to Canada was incredibly challenging for Kristian. It tested his resilience and adaptability, helping him grow and connect with the community in ways he never expected. In three years, Good Sorts has grown to employ more than 27 team members from diverse backgrounds; it continues to double its annual revenue. This growth is due to Kristian’s “people first” approach, impacting his team members, clients, and the community. In 2022, Good Sorts and marked another significant milestone in growth and expanded their portfolio, acquiring Prime Concrete Coatings.
Kristian’s leadership style is deeply rooted in personal growth and opportunity, factors that can be overlooked in the janitorial sector. A belief of leading by example and fostering a culture where team members feel valued and empowered has transformed Good Sorts into more than just a cleaning company; it’s a place where individuals, regardless of background or experience, can thrive and achieve their professional goals. This focus on nurturing talent has had a profound impact on Good Sorts and the growth marked by hard work, learning, and genuine connections. It reminds for Kristian what can be achieved with a committed team and supportive community. This reflection, more than any single achievement, stands out to him as his most memorable achievement.
Honouree – Avi Gill
Founder, CEO - Farming Karma Fruit Company Ltd.
“Dare to dream big, work hard, and stay true to your values. Best way to predict the future is to create it.” Avi Gill
Avi is rooted in the farming community and works alongside his dad, Karma, to grow apples and cherries. As there was limited opportunity to market these fruits being sold as a commodity, Avi and his family innovated by creating a beverage as a value-add product and brand. They launched Farming Karma in 2018.
The concept of “Doing Good” or “Good Karma” inspired the unique healthy, delicious, Okanagan fruit beverage for all age groups. Their philosophy started with providing a healthy and delicious alternative to high sugar beverages, so people can feel good about what they’re putting in their body. They took that very same philosophy beyond the soda can and ventured into the community to recognize those who deserves to receive some good karma: their “Do Good” initiative celebrates and rewards people who go that extra mile. In addition, they donate the product and volunteer in the community.
Since apple revenue has plummeted to a point where farming is no longer solely sustainable as a business, the Ministry of Agriculture set out an initiative to help apple farmers and Avi was tasked to play a role on a Committee that looks at the issues in the farming industry and find solutions. Being a voice for the farming community is important to Avi, and he has been featured at the TED Conference in Vancouver in 2022 and 2023.