Third round of Top 20 Under 20 recipients announced

VERNON – KPMG and The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the third group of five recipients of the Top 20 under 40.The annual Top 20 Under 40, brought to you by KPMG, Community Futures, City of Vernon-Economic Development and the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, recognizes the next generation of leaders in the North Okanagan, those under the age of 40 years of age who are making their mark through business success and community involvement.  
The recipients were selected among more than 60 nominations, and include:
 

• Alexa Monahan – Director of marketing at Nature’s Fare Markets. Alexa is passionate about everything local, sustainable and organic, and believes the “purpose of business is to foster healthy communities and to be a force for positive change.” She is also a director with the Canadian Health Food Association and she created the Brilliant Brains Bookclub to promote literacy among children in B.C.
• Andrew Allen – Musician/director. Andrew’s do it yourself ability and optimistic attitude have served him well as he’s had five Top 10 hits in Canada, and he’s toured with Bruno Mars, One Republic and the Barenaked Ladies. Allen has also supported numerous charities. “Understanding the gift of music and the joy it brings people, I’ve also volunteered to perform at Polson Extended Care, Hospice House and VJH.”
• Cara Arding – Owner of Pickleball Depot. Over five years, Cara’s leadership and energy have turned Pickleball Depot into the largest multi-brand online retailer of pickleball equipment in Canada, and she has also created wholesale and manufacturing divisions. In terms of the community, Cara assisted Vernon’s pickleball project and she supports pickleball organizations across Canada.
• Brett Squair – Associate lawyer at Davidson Pringle. Called to the bar in 2017, Brett practices in the areas of business law, real estate and estate planning, and he’s committed to assisting his colleagues find success through training and social events. Brett is also a member of the B.C. Cattleman’s Association, a director with the North Okanagan Livestock Association and a director of the Sky Volleyball Club.
• Laura Code – Regional agrologist with the Ministry of Agriculture. Laura’s love for agriculture developed as a child on a farm, and now she assists farmers and producer associations prepare for the future. Outside of her career, Laura has been involved with 4-H, and JCI locally, regionally and nationally. “I truly believe in the power of leading by example and mentoring people to become leaders.”