BCBusiness
Real people. Real finances. From six-figure earners to side hustlers, BCBusiness's Money Makers is pulling back the curtain on how British Columbians really make, spend and think about money—no filters, just facts.
At just 24, this Kelowna-based government relations pro is earning like a veteran: $130,000 a year ($110K salary plus $20K in side work), backed by extended health, dental, life insurance, a group pension, professional development funds and a wellness allowance. He’s the first to admit his path wasn’t traditional—he never finished his bachelor’s degree, instead building experience and connections on the job that helped him rise quickly in his field.
He swears he’s fairly paid—“times are tough and I’m fortunate”—and he spends like someone who knows what he likes: quality clothes and the occasional Hermès hand soap. But he’s just as happy going generic where it counts (why buy Tylenol when acetaminophen is half the price?). Kelowna’s not cheap, he admits, but a surplus of rentals has kept his housing costs surprisingly reasonable.
If there’s a soft spot, it’s his “vibes” approach to budgeting—one he’s trying to trade for a plan—even as he invests, contributes to his RRSP and leans on the security of a pension. His definition of rich is simple: not worrying about money; getting there is about discipline, not just a big paycheque.
Career crush? Cardiothoracic surgeon. His advice to peers: don’t overspend to look successful—“you don’t have to be everything all at once.”
Do you feel fairly paid for what you do?
Absolutely! Times are tough and I am very fortunate to make the salary I do.
Name one item you splurge on, regardless of your budget.
Clothes and little luxuries; I prefer to invest in quality items. Also, Hermes makes lovely hand soap!
What’s something you refuse to spend money on?
One thing I’ll never spend money on is name brand products; you’ll never catch me buying Tylenol when generic brand acetaminophen is half the price!
Do you use a financial advisor, app, spreadsheet—or vibes?
Outside of my financial advisor, most of my budgeting is vibes, but that’s a personal goal to get away from.
How has living in your city/neighbourhood impacted your financial choices?
Kelowna isn’t cheap, but it’s surprisingly affordable in some aspects—rent being one of them, given there is a lot on the market.
Do you ever find yourself concerned about money or financial security? If you’re comfortable sharing, what contributes to that?
I do struggle often, probably due to me running my budget off of vibes.
How, if at all, are you approaching retirement planning right now?
I am also fortunate to be part of a pension plan, in addition to investing and my own RRSP.
Is there a job you secretly admire for the pay or lifestyle?
I’ve always wanted to be a cardio-thoracic surgeon.
How do you define financial success? What does being “rich” mean to you?
I think being rich means to not worry about money, and I don’t think you need to make a lot to get to that point; you just need to be disciplined.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned about work and finances that you think others in your industry could benefit from?
You don’t have to be everything all at once. I think sometimes young professionals overspend trying to come across as successful. But looking/feeling successful shouldn’t cost you your rent. Take your time accumulating things and feel confident in your ability to do the work.
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