The 麻豆精选 Chamber of Commerce has finalized its Top 40 honourees. Over the next few months, biographies and photos of the honourees will be announced.
Be sure to follow 麻豆精选 for updates on who鈥檚 who in the Top 40.
DEBBIE DA SILVA
Debbie da Silva is a highly respected finance and business leader, currently serving as the Office Managing Partner at KPMG LLP in 麻豆精选. With a Bachelor of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University and a CPA, CA designation, she brings over 20 years of experience in strategic financial leadership, governance, and risk management.
Debbie鈥檚 leadership style is rooted in mentorship and coaching, fostering the development of individuals and organizations alike. She is known for leading by example鈥攓uietly yet effectively鈥攅arning the trust and respect of her colleagues, clients, and the broader community. Through her professional engagements, she provides innovative solutions that drive economic growth and financial sustainability for businesses across various industries.
Passionate about giving back, Debbie has been a dedicated Director with the Central Okanagan Bursary and Scholarship Society (COBSS) for 16 years, helping to distribute 500+ awards annually to graduating students. She has also served with the Canadian Mental Health Association, 麻豆精选 & District Branch, and has volunteered as a youth basketball and soccer coach.
As the first female KPMG Office Managing Partner in 麻豆精选, Debbie鈥檚 career is a testament to hard work, integrity, and the power of mentorship. She believes that trust is the foundation of leadership and continues to inspire the next generation of professionals.
LANCE MACDONALD
Lance Macdonald is a dedicated Discretionary Portfolio Manager with Queensbury Securities, bringing decades of experience in financial services. He holds a BA (Honours) in History and Philosophy from UBC and has earned esteemed designations, including Canadian Investment Manager (CIM), Certified International Wealth Manager, and Personal Financial Planner. With over 20 years in bank-owned firms, Lance transitioned to an independent platform to enhance client-focused financial solutions while keeping resources within the local economy.
Beyond his financial career, Lance is a passionate community leader and philanthropist, actively contributing to organizations that foster youth development, international cooperation, and public safety. He serves as President of the 麻豆精选 International Children's Games Committee and is a member of the International Organizing Committee, impacting global youth through sport and cultural exchange. His leadership extends to the South Okanagan Boundary Ski Patrol Society, where he plays a critical role in first aid training and emergency response at Big White.
A Sport Builder of the Year (City of 麻豆精选, 2021) recipient, Lance is also a Paul Harris Fellow (Rotary, 2010). His most cherished accomplishment is raising his three children alongside his wife, Amy. Inspired by Nelson Mandela鈥檚 belief in sport鈥檚 power to unite, Lance continues to lead with integrity, mentorship, and community spirit.
MYRNA STARK LEADER
Myrna Stark Leader is an accomplished entrepreneur, communicator, and community leader, with extensive experience in media, communications, and agriculture. She holds an Accredited Business Communicator (ABC) designation through IABC and Accredited Public Relations (APR) through CPRS.
After completing a communications diploma, Myrna spent over 20 years in government roles, including serving as Director of Communications at the City of Regina before relocating to 麻豆精选 in 2017. She launched Myrna Stark Leader Writing and Communications, where she now specializes in agriculture writing and communications.
Myrna has made a significant impact through her role as the Connector Program Coordinator for the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC), helping newcomers build local professional networks. She grew the program from 39 to over 75 formal Connectors, facilitating 241 successful connections and contributing to the region鈥檚 diversity and economy.
An active volunteer, Myrna is a board member of the BC Farm Writers鈥� Association (BCFWA) and Canadian Farm Writers' Federation (CFWF). She also contributes to local initiatives such as 100 Women Who Care and 麻豆精选 Kiwanis.
Myrna鈥檚 work is driven by a passion for storytelling, connecting people, and making a lasting impact on her community.
CARO VAN EIJSDEN
Caro van Eijsden is an accomplished entrepreneur, hospitality expert, and community leader, best known as the owner of Energyplex, 麻豆精选鈥檚 premier family entertainment center. With a deep passion for service excellence, team development, and customer engagement, she has transformed Energyplex into a thriving destination for families while making a lasting impact on the local economy.
Originally from the Netherlands, Caro graduated with honors from Fontys University of Applied Sciences with a Bachelor of Education in Food Technology, earning distinction as the top student in her class. She further honed her expertise with a WSET Level 2 Certificate in Wine and Spirits (Pass with Merit) from the International Wine and Spirit Centre London. Her career spans hospitality training, curriculum development, and authorship of a professional hospitality textbook now used in B.Ed. Food Technology programs.
As a hands-on and collaborative leader, Caro fosters a workplace culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. She takes pride in mentoring her staff鈥攎any of whom are in their first jobs鈥攈elping them develop essential skills and confidence.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Caro displayed resilience and innovation by leading a strategic renovation at Energyplex, introducing a new bar and arcade to enhance the customer experience. This transformation not only revitalized the business but reinforced its place in the community.
Beyond business, Caro is deeply committed to giving back. Energyplex contributes thousands of dollars in Play Cards annually to support fundraisers and local organizations. She also leads an annual event for Autism BC, creating an inclusive and welcoming space for families affected by autism.
Caro鈥檚 entrepreneurial journey reflects her unwavering dedication to excellence, community impact, and leadership. Through Energyplex, she continues to inspire and uplift those around her while ensuring it remains a beloved family destination in 麻豆精选.
MYRNA STARK LEADER
Myrna Stark Leader is an accomplished entrepreneur, communicator, and community leader, with extensive experience in media, communications, and agriculture. She holds an Accredited Business Communicator (ABC) designation through IABC and Accredited Public Relations (APR) through CPRS.
After completing a communications diploma, Myrna spent over 20 years in government roles, including serving as Director of Communications at the City of Regina before relocating to 麻豆精选 in 2017. She launched Myrna Stark Leader Writing and Communications, where she now specializes in agriculture writing and communications.
Myrna has made a significant impact through her role as the Connector Program Coordinator for the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC), helping newcomers build local professional networks. She grew the program from 39 to over 75 formal Connectors, facilitating 241 successful connections and contributing to the region鈥檚 diversity and economy.
An active volunteer, Myrna is a board member of the BC Farm Writers鈥� Association (BCFWA) and Canadian Farm Writers' Federation (CFWF). She also contributes to local initiatives such as 100 Women Who Care and 麻豆精选 Kiwanis.
Myrna鈥檚 work is driven by a passion for storytelling, connecting people, and making a lasting impact on her community.
