Where were you born, and where did you grow up?
I was born in Victoria and raised by a single mother – a bohemian free spirit who raised my younger brother and me in an off-beat, alternative and never dull way. We moved constantly around the city and travelled spontaneously to exotic places, including communes and rock festivals. We were exposed to art, culture and eccentric people from all walks of life. My childhood was colourful and somewhat chaotic. I am a product of this environment, and although a bit scarred, I am also extremely grateful.
How long have you lived in Oak Bay?
For two years. I chose this Beach Drive apartment because of its design and light – a classic mid-century modern building that feels open, airy and comfortable.
What has shaped your career?
I have a long career on the front line as a medical social worker at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals, and as a parent educator and family therapist with the Ministry of Children and Family Development. But I have always loved fashion and art culture. I minored in art history, and my first career was in the beauty industry, which helped me understand personal care, style and the dynamic world of business. Now, I am a social worker, fundraiser and social entrepreneur.
I opened what started as a lifestyle boutique, Tulipe Noire, not just to be creative and have fun, but to support nonprofit organizations in the city – that’s been my purpose from the start. At Tulipe Noire, I purchase merchandise and oversee administration and community networking. My loyal staff (who have worked for me since I opened 20 years ago) take care of my customers. This leaves me time to work for the Victoria Native Friendship Centre (VNFC) as director of community engagement and fund development, and focus my Tulipe Noire work on supporting charities close to my heart.
You opened Tulipe Noire in 2005. But, it's much more than a clothing store to you – you describe it as a social enterprise. How do you use your store as a platform for causes that you are passionate about?
Since I opened, I’ve fundraised for the arts and human services. Now, in tandem with my role at VNFC, I educate Tulipe Noire’s staff and customers about supporting the urban Indigenous community. That ties into allyship and educating the corporate community’s responsibility to meet the Call to Action 92.
Through my store, I sponsor, event plan, and fundraise for causes I care deeply about. Tulipe Noire generates revenue to make this possible, with the majority of profits directed toward multiple charities. Having a business also allows me to make connections with the community and the corporate world, host events, and collaborate on fundraising initiatives.
What are some projects that you are currently passionate about?
I oversee VNFC’s Cowichan sweater project, Knit, which raises awareness on the importance of reclaiming Indigenous art, fair wages and preserving the heritage of the iconic Cowichan sweater. Through this social enterprise, we support knitters and their traditional craft by paying them a fair wage for the sweaters that they create – the sweaters take approximately 30-40 hours! We sell them online and at Makers, including the Victoria location at Government St.
I am also running a VNFC fundraising campaign, Allies in Reconciliation: Sharing the Path Forward, to support food security, housing and youth while broadening our base of monthly donors. Currently, VNFC offers 70+ programs supporting urban Indigenous peoples across Greater Victoria. The campaign is a call to action to essentially anyone in the community, but as a business owner, I also build strong connections in the small business and corporate community.
What is your 'why' that drives you every day?
I'm driven by the pursuit of heart-centred, tangible work that has meaning, purpose and makes a difference in people’s lives.
What brings you joy?
I love attending arts performances, travelling, reading and spending time with my husband and daughter. I also love networking and getting to know new people. If I can be supportive or collaborate on a project and form a meaningful friendship, then I am truly fulfilled.
