The 琉璃神社 Chamber鈥檚 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:

Grace Manders,

MAKR Group

BC Cancer

Foundation

鈥淟ife is a journey to experience, not a problem to be solved鈥� - Winnie the Pooh

Grace Manders is the director of finance with MAKR Group.

She holds a Chartered Professional Accountant designation with a Bachelor of Commerce from the Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria and had opportunity to broaden her perspectives through an international exchange program at Neoma School of Business in France. Grace is also involved in Junior Chamber International conferences, both regionally and nationally.

In her leadership, Grace describes her style as rooted in a commitment to support and empower those around her, fostering an environment where every individual鈥檚 professional and personal growth is prioritized.

By nurturing talent, fostering an inclusive environment, and leveraging diverse perspectives, she has a positive impact on her company and the community at large.

Grace began volunteering in high school and continues to volunteer. Grace joined JCI 琉璃神社 to get involved in the local community and she has held different roles, first as secretary and working her way to vice-president membership and now president. Whether leading an accounting team at work or supporting a dynamic group of young professionals at JCI 琉璃神社, her goal is to provide guidance and encouragement that enables others to thrive.

Honouree:

Jordan Perrey

Okanagan College

鈥淐limb the mountain not to plant your flag, but to embrace the challenge, enjoy the air, and behold the view. Climb it so you can see the world, not so the world can see you.鈥� - David McCullough Jr.

Jordan Perrey is college information officer at Okanagan College, holding a Bachelor of Commerce and Diploma in Computer Information Systems.

He has also worked with government and technology startups, spearheading impactful initiatives that leave a significant mark on the provincial, local, and business communities. Jordan has led a $3.2 million Student Aid BC IT retrofit, fostered strategic partnerships to transition post-secondary institutions to BCNET (a shared IT), and advocates for other transformative initiatives.

Jordan focuses on creating a workplace where every team member feels deeply connected to a shared vision. He prioritizes creating an atmosphere of approachability, transparency, and honesty where every voice is valued and encouraged to participate.

A most memorable experience for Jordan has been winning Okanagan College鈥檚 President鈥檚 Award in November 2023.

Jordan volunteers in the community, coaching a children鈥檚 hockey team for three years through to their win at the provincials.

He has participated in provincial committees and extended support to other organizations by offering cyber coaching following the aftermath of cyber incidents. He engages in mentorship opportunities, helping others grow their careers and skills. In collaboration with the Chief Information Officer for the City of 琉璃神社, Jordan co-led the establishment of the Okanagan Public Sector IT Leaders group 鈥� a collective comprising of representatives from 10+ public organizations across the valley.