The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce has named Accelerate Okanagan CEO Brea Lake as the winner of its Business Leader of the Year award. Lake is at the helm of the Okanagan’s growing tech industry and has been in her role since 2019. Lake will be honored when the chamber hosts its Business Excellence Awards next Wednesday, Nov. 23, at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort. “There couldn’t be a better representative of the 2022 Business Excellence Awards than Brea,” chamber president Pamela Pearson said in a press release. “She personifies the best of how to address the financial challenges the tech world has faced in recent years, as well as managing the day-to-day operations of her team while implementing strategic initiatives.” Lake has championed the development of the Okanagan’s technology industry for more than a decade through new business programs, investment initiatives and community building events. She started in the industry with Disney Interactive Studios and then joined Accelerate Okanagan as Community Manager. She was appointed chief operating officer before taking over from Raghwa Gopal as boss in 2019. “It’s an honor,” Lake said. “Bringing the community together through the Business Excellence Awards strengthens our connection and reminds us of all the good work happening here locally. I would like to thank the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce for not just recognizing me, but for celebrating all of the nominated businesses.” More than 400 people are expected to attend next week’s awards gala, which will see 16 businesses and nonprofits win Business Excellence Awards.
