Image: Contributed
This year, Okanagan Edge and the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce have partnered to showcase some of the Okanagan’s most exciting entrepreneurs, through the Top 40 Under 40 program.
Sponsored by BDO, the Top 40 Under 40 recognizes innovative young professionals in our community, and showcases their accomplishments.
Okanagan Edge will feature a new honouree each week, so check back often.
This week we recognize Kelowna Chiefs’ winger and social entrepreneur Myles Mattila.
Image: Contributed
At a young age, Myles Mattila discovered entrepreneurialism and quickly began to embody the key attributes and characteristics, by taking initiative, risks and generating hope.
In his youth, Mattila worked excessively with mental health advocacy, founding MindRight.info in Prince George and spearheading a mental health summit. The self-developed wellness program aims to educate individuals about their mental health and the health of others, through resources and connections to community services.
Despite facing rejection, Mattila adapts to the rugged terrain he faces in this field of community work and continually pursues reduced stigma associated with mental illness.
Mattila is also involved with Jack.org and Foundry BC/Foundry Kelowna, which both work to transform the way mental health is perceived and to integrate youth into these efforts.
Beyond these primary focus projects, Mattila has also continually participated in fundraising efforts and campaigns associated with mental health advocacy and programs.
These projects and achievements have not only developed Mattila’s community, but have set a standard for growth of awareness and reduced stigma at a national level.
Mattila was even recognized by PrimeMinister Justin Trudeau for his efforts in mental health advocacy, become a finalist for
the Young Male Volunteer of the Year Award in Kelowna, earned the 2017 Chair of the Board Award for being humanitarian of the year from BC Hockey
After graduating from Prince George Secondary School with Honours, Mattila began a Business degree at Okanagan College, which he plan to complete in Europe. Following the completion of his business degree, he intends on continuing his education at UBC to become a lawyer.
Today, Myles continues to retain the entrepreneurial spirit by embracing educational initiatives, supporting mental health advocacy, engaging in non-profit and business ventures and through his role as a player in junior hockey.
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