Columbia Basin Trust and JCI Kootenay celebrate 30 Under 30 recipients

The 30 Under 30 campaign, presented in partnership by JCI Kootenay and Columbia Basin Trust (the Trust), honoured 30 young leaders and changemakers from across the Columbia Basin for their outstanding contributions to their communities.

“Age doesn’t determine someone’s ability to create positive change, but initiative, commitment, innovation and drive do,” said Johnny Strilaeff, Columbia Basin Trust President and CEO. “The Trust is proud to highlight the young people recognized through 30 Under 30, whose efforts are shaping a brighter future for the Basin.”

Launched this spring in conjunction with the Trust’s 30^th anniversary, the 30 Under 30 campaign highlights efforts in volunteerism, entrepreneurship, environmental stewardship, Indigenous leadership, education, arts and culture, civic engagement and other forms of community involvement. Finalists were chosen for excellence in leadership, innovation, community engagement, volunteerism and entrepreneurial spirit.

“The 30 Under 30 campaign celebrates young people already making a meaningful impact across communities,” said Dan Crema, Chair of the 30 Under 30 committee and JCI Kootenay board member. “These recipients are leaders, volunteers, entrepreneurs and everyday changemakers who are helping shape the future of the Basin. JCI Kootenay, together with Columbia Basin Trust, is proud to celebrate their achievements and the positive impact they bring to this region.”

Recipients were recognized at a special event in Kimberley on September 27. Learn more about all the 30 inspiring recipients.

East Kootenay and area recipients

Rhys Boekelheide (Cranbrook)

Rhys, 24, is a young entrepreneur from Cranbrook who has turned simple ideas into thriving businesses. He launched Crap Collectors at 16, then co-founded Junk Bros and Moving Bros, where he manages logistics, bookkeeping, and customer service. Known for his work ethic and community spirit, Rhys has supported wildfire cleanup in Aq’am and local volunteer efforts. He is respected for providing quality service with integrity and a genuine commitment to his community.

Devin Capilo (Shuswap Band)

Devin, 18, is a proud member of the Shuswap Band and serves as a Junior Salmon Chief and Guardian, dedicated to being a “keeper of the land.” A recent graduate of David Thompson Secondary School, he is learning Secwépemc language and cultural protocols while sharing knowledge with his community. Skilled in traditional practices and creative arts, Devin is an emerging leader committed to cultural preservation, youth advocacy, and strengthening community for future generations.

Chris Cawdell (Elko)

Chris, 23, is a lieutenant with the RDEK Elk Valley & South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Service Fire and a volunteer with Search and Rescue, offering his time and skills when they’re needed most. A former Royal Canadian Army Cadet, he received top awards for leadership and citizenship, including the Legion Medal of Excellence and the Lord Strathcona Medal. Christopher also volunteers with Cranbrook Search and Rescue, local sports, and community events. His commitment to safety, service, and mentorship makes him an outstanding young leader. When he’s not working, you’ll find him hiking, hunting, or just enjoying the outdoors.

Dan Geddes (Golden)

Dan, 29, has been a resident of Golden since 2018. He is the founder and director of Dirtbag Climbing Corp and sees business and community as intrinsically connected. Through his business, and his volunteerism on several community boards, such as the Kicking Chamber of Commerce Horse, he strives to effect social change, focused on food security and sport for life. His leadership fosters equity, connection, and resilience, making him a trusted mentor and community builder.

Sebastian Gylander (Golden)

Sebastian, 21, is a Special Olympic athlete with extensive experience in competitive skiing, including a two-time gold medalist at the 2025 World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. He has skied with the Golden Nordic Club for 11 years, completed his NCCP coaching course, and volunteers as a coach to support younger athletes. He has demonstrated resilience by overcoming challenges related to his disabilities and inspiring others in his community through positive leadership and personal example. Beyond his athletic achievements, Sebastian works at the Golden Municipal Campground and is admired for his work ethic, positivity and leadership.

Nick Jensen (Cranbrook)

Nick, 18, is a young entrepreneur from Cranbrook who recently graduated from Mt. Baker Secondary School and is pursuing a degree in business management at the University of Lethbridge. He is the founder of Air Barrier Innovations Ltd., a company manufacturing energy-efficient building gaskets now distributed through Home Hardware stores and other suppliers across Canada. Alongside his business success, Nick has excelled in athletics, volunteered on Rotary projects, and earned awards in business competitions.

Tyler Kamstra (Golden)

Tyler, 22, is an athlete, volunteer, and community leader from Golden. A Special Olympics competitor, he has won gold at the regional, provincial, and national levels in sprinting and also competes in swimming, cycling, and weightlifting. Beyond athletics, Tyler serves as President of the Golden Rotary Club, making him the youngest president in his district. Dedicated and hardworking, he also contributes through local volunteer work, showing determination and leadership in every role.

Chancellor Litke (Cranbrook)

Chancellor, 27, is the owner of Guidance Planning Strategies Ltd., where he helps over 500 families and business owners with retirement, succession, and financial planning. As Past-President of JCI Kootenay and Treasurer of JCI Canada, he champions youth leadership and community development, volunteering with Rotary, local festival, and leadership development. Chancellor has built a respected business, serves as a mentor and role model, and continues to make a lasting impact in the Cranbrook community and beyond through public speaking and volunteering. Through his business, mentorship and volunteer work, Chance demonstrates leadership, innovation, and community service, inspiring others across Cranbrook to achieve their goals.

Oakley Mengel (Elkford)

Oakley, 18, is in her second year of post-secondary, attending the University of Calgary for a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Studies. She is an emerging artis and community leader who uses creativity to spark meaningful conversation and inspire change. Through her art she has courageously addressed difficult topics like suicide awareness and loss, blending visual storytelling with empathy to bring people together. Proceeds from her work have gone directly to support individuals and families facing addiction and mental health challenges. I am fuelled off learning, appreciating the human experience, and the ones in my life I love the most. Beyond her artwork, Oakley teaches children, leads youth activity programs and serves as a mentor for emerging artists. She has artistic aspirations of being a tattoo artist and is passionate about her love for dark reds.

Rebecca Odnokon (Cranbrook)

Rebecca, 29, is an account executive in commercial insurance who has built a career defined by courage and perseverance. She has competed in strongman and bodybuilding events, and today channels that same drive into her work and community service. An active member of JCI Kootenay, Rotary, and a volunteer with Little Mittens Animal Rescue, she is committed to growth, leadership, and giving back. Rebecca’s story reflects resilience, passion and pride in the communities where she works and volunteers.

Deeken Pascal (Shuswap Band)

Deeken, 15, is a proud youth from the Shuswap Band and a dedicated advocate for Hoop Dancing and Secwépemc culture. He shares his leadership at community events through dance, hand drumming, and mentorship of younger members. Committed to strengthening relationships across the 17 bands of the Secwépemc Nation, Deeken fosters unity and cultural pride while creating spaces of safety and inspiration for those around him.

Darcy Roshau (Cranbrook)

Darcy, 25, is a Ktunaxa artist, entrepreneur, and community leader from Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi‘it Nation who resides in Cranbrook.Through her business, Cedar and Pine Design, she creates murals, beadwork, paintings, and graphic designs that celebrate culture and community. Her work is featured on the Foundry building in Cranbrook and in numerous nation-owned spaces. Alongside her art, Darcy contributes through her role at the Ktunaxa Nation Council, balancing her creative practice with full-time service, family and community leadership.

Alexis Sever (Kimberley)

Alexis Sever, 28, grew up in Winnipeg and spent her summers on the southeastern shore of Lake Winnipeg, where she developed a strong connection to nature. She holds a Diploma in Greenspace Horticulture and a Bachelor of Natural Resource Sciences – Honours Degree. Recognized for her leadership and problem-solving, Alexis mentors colleagues, supports flood response, and contributes to working groups on watershed protection. Alexis works as a Water Authorizations Specialist with the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. She is committed to protecting the public interest through the sustainable management of our water resources. She volunteers at community events such as the East Kootenay Regional Science Fair and Round the Mountain Race.

Keegan Street (Fernie)

Keegan, 25, is the co-founder and head roaster of Rooftop Coffee Roasters in Fernie. What began as a hobby on his family’s rooftop patio, while he was still in high school, has grown into a nationally recognized roastery and café, known for quality, sustainability and strong community support. With a background in Environmental Engineering, Keegan has built lasting relationships with coffee farmers, led Rooftop to over $1M in annual revenue, and earned recognition in national coffee competitions. Keegan is also a dedicated community volunteer with active involvement in the Elk River Alliance and music nights in Fernie. Rooftop Coffee Roasters supports several local initiatives such as the Emily Brydon Youth Foundation and the Fernie Trails Alliance. Keegan’s leadership combines entrepreneurship, community service and sustainability.

Jayla Toorenburgh (Cranbrook)

Jayla, 29, born and raised in Cranbrook, has always had a passion for supporting others through both volunteerism and work. Her volunteer journey spans youth mentorships, summer camps, art programs, tutoring, crisis line responding and more, both in her hometown and during her studies in Alberta. Now back in the East Kootenay, she continues living out this passion as a counsellor at a local non-profit, fostering and embodying the support she values in her community.

Findlay Whittick (Invermere)

Findlay, 17, is a young entrepreneur and community leader. At 15, he founded Summit Soccer Camps, creating opportunities for kids aged 6–13 to develop their skills, stay active, and build confidence. Over the past three years, his camps have steadily grown to serve dozens of families while employing local coaches. Passionate about sports, youth development, and entrepreneurship, Findlay is dedicated to making a positive impact in his community and beyond. Recognized as Youth Entrepreneur of the Year, Findlay continues to balance school, sport, and business with a vision to expand his camps and inspire other youth.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin to strengthen social, economic and environmental well-being. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, visit ourtrust.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

JCI Kootenay is a non-partisan, membership-based non-profit organization comprised of members aged 18-40 who live and work in the East Kootenay. Its mission is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. JCI Kootenay values creating positive change, self-improvement, and building fellowship among members. Visit www.jcikootenay.com to learn more.

Lead image: Recipients of the 30 Under 30 campaign, presented by Columbia Basin Trust and JCI Kootenay, celebrate their achievements at a special event in Kimberley on September 27. Photo submitted

Columbia Basin Trust/JCI Kootenay

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