Local non-profit JCI Kootenay recently came home from the JCI BC/Yukon Regional Convention in Vernon with accolades and recognition.

The Harry Potter themed conference was full of magic and friendship while holding room for pleasant rivalries.

At the annual event that celebrates the accomplishments of organizations and their members across BC and the Yukon, JCI Kootenay received the following awards:

• Chapter of the Year;
• Most Outstanding Member of the Year: Daniel Crema, Training Director;
• Rookie of the Year Runner-Up: Kristin Eitzenberger, Membership Director;
• Executive of the Year Runner-Up: Sven Sloeserwij, President;
• Best Conference of the Year: BC/Yukon Regional Convention hosted by JCI Kootenay in 2024.
• Chancellor Litke, Past President, took home first place in both the Prepared and Impromptu categories of the Effective Speaking Competition.

There is also a trophy that is awarded to a chapter based on criteria of the hosting chapter called the Giesenbier Trophy. Throughout the conference points were awarded in a House Cup style like in Harry Potter. JCI Kootenay started out in third place, only getting farther behind as the conference progressed.

By the last hour JCI Kootenay had worked hard getting to a close second. In classic Hary Potter fashion, points were awarded at the last moment for the winner of effective speaking. The chapter waited intently. “Chancellor Litke!” We all stood up and cheered as we barely overtook first place, winning us the Giesenbier Trophy for the first time in over five years.

These awards qualify the ambitious young members for the National awards and Effective Speaking Competition in Penticton in September. We are wishing them luck!

JCI Kootenay members are between the ages of 18-40, with the club providing professional development, training, and networking, social activities and gatherings, as well as giving back to the community through volunteering and project creation.

If you are interested in meeting some fun and active people in the Cranbrook and Kimberley area, reach out via email at [email protected] or find them on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/JCIKootenay/

Photo submitted

JCI Kootenay

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