Since I started in 2013, and thanks to the dedicated, collaborative efforts of our local affiliated associations, membership has surged by 74% to 2,375 member companies. We have also created well-developed non-dues revenue streams. The growth has allowed CHBA BC to introduce new initiatives and additional services. Our core activities of advocacy, education, energy programs, technical and building innovation, promotion of skilled trades and our award-winning Georgie Awards program have significantly enhanced the value for members throoughout B.C. In 2020-21, CHBA BC received a national award for Homebuilder Association of the Year. I am proud to have been a part of this journey for the past 11 years.The early yearsMy entrepreneurial journey began at age 19 when I started a furniture manufacturing business in the basement of our family home with one employee. As ordered increased, I moved into warehouse space and expanded Neilcraft Furniture Ltd. to a staff of more than 30. After successfully building Neilcraft, I decided to sell the company. With the guidance of my advisor, mentor, and silent partner David Butterfield (Hummingbird Energy LLC, Victoria, BC), I purchased Scott Manufacturing Ltd. from soon-to-be mentor Walter Scott (Mascot Construction). In the first year, the company sales tripled with distribution channels in Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Australia. Five years later, after being approached by a manufacturer within the industry, I sold the company and started a business to build houses with the guidance of Walter Scott.Fueled by an interest in international business and Japanese culture, I left my comfort zone and moved to Tokyo, Japan. Initially planned as a six-month stay, it turned into a 20-year journey over three periods.For 14 years, I was the executive director of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ), advocating for the $21 billion Canada-Japan bilateral economic relationship. Working closely with the Canadian Embassy, the CCCJ organized various networking events, seminars, and meetings, including those with premiers and several prime ministers. Initiating the inaugural meeting of the Canadian Chambers and Business Associations in Asia, which created a network of 3,000 members with ties to Canada, and chairing the Foreign Business Information Group in Japan were exceptional gratifying achievements. I believe in working with people who collaborate, empowering them to grow in their work, having a team approach to achieving goals, being accountable, and not being afraid to use humour to keep things light.