A strong community can promote new ideas and ensure accountability. It can also act as motivation, support, and even provide a little friendly competition. The power of community is undeniable and the Okanagan tech community is no exception.

Our community is strong and growing with record speed and maintaining connection through a period of growth like this can be a challenge. Nobody panic, we’ve got a plan.  

Introducing, The Faces of #OKGNtech. A showcase of Okanagan tech entrepreneurs, partners, supporters, and cheerleaders designed to fuel more connection, more growth, and more excitement. Follow along (on the blog and on Instagram @OKGNtech) to learn more about our growing community and what makes them awesome.

Meet Alex. Alex Reid is the Community Manager here at Accelerate Okanagan. When she’s not busy connecting with the community, you’ll find her playing volleyball, softball, soccer, lawn bowling, or curling. [Editor’s note: TEAM PLAYER ALERT]. We recently caught up with Alex to learn more about her love for the Okanagan and who inspires her. 

When were you first introduced to OKGNtech?

 “I was welcomed into the #OKGNtech community with open arms and I think that’s a really amazing thing about the community. There is so much space for everyone who wants to be a part of it.”

What do you love about the Okanagan?

“I actually grew up in Penticton so it will always have a special place in my heart. I feel like being away for 6+ years helped me realize how much I appreciate the area and appreciate being close to family. I really like that this community has grown even in the time that I have been a part of it

You’re a very involved individual. Where did you learn to network?

“Actually, recently somebody had asked me ‘where did you learn to network?’ But I never thought of it as a learned skill – or a muscle you have to flex – it has always been a something I’ve loved doing.”

What’s a piece of advice you can share with us?

 “You can’t be all things to all people and if you set that expectation for yourself, you’re setting yourself up to fail. This was advice from an old boss of mine that I come back to often.”

Who are your biggest cheerleaders?

“My brother Montana Reid is one of my biggest cheerleaders. I mentioned to him back in December that I wanted to develop more tech-related skills. His excitement and enthusiasm to teach me sprouted into a coding class that we host at Accelerate Okanagan every Tuesday night”. [Editor’s note: BLESS THIS MAN]

Who inspires you?

 “I am pretty inspired by business owners and entrepreneurs who are innovating and trying to go out and do their own thing and take that chance.”

Can tell us a bit about your role at Accelerate Okanagan?

“I get to work with really great people inside my organization as well as outside of it. I think it is rare to find a position that gets the opportunity to be surrounded by so many diverse skill sets and so many creative and innovative people. I learn something new every day.”

Connect with Alex. Learn more about Accelerate Okanagan. Hungry for more? Meet David.     

Are you following our new #OKGNtech faces Instagram?