Build leadership skills, real friendships, and community impact — right here in Kelowna
JCI Kelowna is a community for ages 18–40 who want to grow as leaders, meet driven people, and run projects that make Kelowna better — without it feeling like another networking event.
What is JCI Kelowna?
JCI Kelowna is part of Junior Chamber International, a global network of young leaders dedicated to creating positive change in our communities.
We're Kelowna's hub for ambitious individuals aged 18-40 who want to develop their leadership skills, expand their professional network, give back to their city, and make new friends.
Through monthly meetings, community projects, and leadership training, we provide a collaborative environment where tomorrow's leaders are shaped today.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional, or simply passionate about making a difference, JCI Kelowna is where your growth begins.
At JCI, we live by the "Be Better" philosophy. We believe that improvement isn't just possible—it's our responsibility.
True change starts from within, and when individuals commit to becoming better citizens, better leaders, and better community members, the ripple effect creates better nations, better environments, and better societies.
Our Mission: Be Better
Developing Leaders
For A Changing Future
Why Join JCI?
01
Leadership
Development
Lead real initiatives—projects, committees, event teams—so you leave with experience you can talk about in interviews and promotions.
02
Professional
Network
Meet ambitious people across industries in Kelowna and build relationships through doing, not just swapping business cards.
03
Community
Impact
Take ideas from “we should do something” to real action—fundraisers, partnerships, volunteering, and local initiatives.
04
Personal
Growth
Build confidence, public speaking comfort, and decision-making skills in a supportive environment.
05
Global
Opportunities
Access JCI’s international network, programs, and conferences.
06
Fun &
Social
Unique venues, memorable experiences, and friendships that stick.
“Joining JCI was the best decision I ever made. I’ve made a difference in my community and gained real friends along the way.”
— Thomas Siekman
Getting Started is Easy
Step 1 – Attend a Meeting
Join us the first Thursday of any month at 6:30 PM. Meeting locations vary each month as we explore different venues around Kelowna. Come as a guest—no commitment required.
Step 2 – Become A Member
Ready to commit? Official membership unlocks full access to JCI resources, voting rights, leadership positions, and our global network. Membership is open to anyone aged 18-40.
Step 3 – Get Involved
Jump into projects that interest you, participate in trainings, and start building connections. There's no "right" way to engage—find what excites you and dive in.
Step 4 – Lead & Grow
Take on leadership roles in projects, committees, or our executive team. Real leadership experience starts here—shape our organization while developing skills that will serve you for life.
GENERAL MEETING INFO
When?
The First Thursday of Every Month at 6:30 PM
Where?
Rotating venues around Kelowna
We’ll send details when you RSVP
What to Expect?
Quick Chapter updates
Leadership or skills segment
Community / project planning
Social time + networking
Our meetings aren't just business—they're also a great time.
From chocolatiers to wineries, from the paddle club to the airport, we meet in different spots each month to learn from local businesses and explore our city together.
First-time guests are always welcome. Just reach out to let us know you're coming!
JCI Testimonials
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![A young woman with blonde hair and blue eyes standing in front of tall green plants, wearing a beige blazer and a sash with medals and chains, smiling at the camera.]()
"I achieved a long-term career goal that JCI made possible. Five years ago, I applied to BDC but wasn’t selected. Over time, my leadership experience in JCI gave me the skills and confidence to stand out as a top candidate. JCI prepared me for success in ways I never imagined, transforming my leadership & personal growth. To anyone considering joining JCI: Do it. Whether you want to grow as a leader, expand your network, or create meaningful change, JCI is an accelerator for both personal and professional success."
– Danielle Hofer, BDC Account Manager, JCI National President 2025
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![A smiling man with glasses, a beard, and gray hair wearing a dark blue suit with a colorful flower lapel pin, sitting indoors against a gray wall.]()
“Joining the Kelowna Jaycees was one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. Over the years, this incredible organization has given me countless fun memories, meaningful friendships, and opportunities to grow. Whether it was organizing community events, participating in leadership workshops, or simply connecting with like-minded individuals, every experience contributed to shaping me into the successful person I am today. The Jaycees' commitment to developing young leaders and making a positive impact in Kelowna is truly inspiring."
— Kevin Lavigne, Kelowna Business Owner
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![A smiling man with a bald head and beard, wearing a black button-up shirt, outdoors with autumn-colored trees in the background.]()
“JCI helped me connect with an incredible community and step into roles that challenged me to grow in a supportive environment. Through my time with JCI, I gained hands-on experience managing projects, serving on the executive, learning how to be part of a board, and even leading as chapter president. I developed skills in public speaking, team building, and authentic network development. Some of my closest friendships were built through JCI, and I’m truly grateful for the personal and professional growth it’s brought me.”
– Drew Vincent
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![Headshot of a man with short dark hair, beard, and wearing a light blue button-up shirt, smiling against a plain white background.]()
“JCI has made me a better networker, better in managing my business, enabled me to give back through their community projects and made me some of the best friends in my life. If you have a chance to join and participate, I highly recommend.”
– Matt Jackson, Mortgage Broker: Indi Mortgage
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![Headshot of a smiling man with dark hair and a beard, wearing a dark suit jacket and a navy blue shirt, against a dark background.]()
“JCI has given me so many avenues to grow and become a true leader in all aspects of my life and career. The people and mentors I have met by being apart of this group are beyond priceless. Wish I had found the time to join sooner.”
– Steven Benjamin, Reinbold Engineering Associate, JCI Kelowna President 2026
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![A woman smiling while sitting in a vehicle, wearing glasses and a black and red uniform with JCI Canada logo.]()
“JCI gave me the confidence to get out of my own way and start saying yes to meaningful opportunities. It’s been a launchpad for discovering my voice, my community, and the path toward the kind of impact I want to make in our ever changing world.”
– Sue Solymosi, Facilitator, Presenter, Podcast Coach
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![A woman giving a presentation at a podium with a BC Metis Federation banner and a blue woven scarf hanging on the side.]()
“My only regret in life is not joining JCI sooner.”
— Raina Dawn Lutz, Wellness Curator, Speaker, JCI Kelowna Secretary 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find an answer to your question? We’re always happy to chat!
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JCI membership is open to anyone aged 18-40 who wants to develop their leadership skills and make a positive impact in our community. You don't need any specific background or experience—just ambition, an open mind, and a willingness to get involved.
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Our standard yearly memberships cost $190. Students can get access to a Student Membership at a rate of $80. Contact our Membership Director at membership@jcikelowna.com for current pricing details. We also welcome guests to attend meetings before committing to membership.
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It's flexible based on your availability. At minimum, we encourage members to attend our monthly meeting (first Thursday at 6:30 PM). Beyond that, you can get as involved as you want—join a committee, lead a project, or participate in community events. Many members dedicate 2-5 hours per month, but you control your level of involvement.
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Absolutely! Many of our members joined JCI specifically to build their network when they moved to Kelowna. You'll meet ambitious, community-minded professionals across various industries, and the collaborative nature of our projects creates genuine friendships quickly.
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Our meetings combine business with learning and fun. We handle organizational matters, receive leadership training on topics like public speaking or project management, discuss upcoming community projects, and network—all while exploring different venues around Kelowna each month.
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Our projects vary based on member interests and community needs. Past initiatives have included fundraisers, environmental programs, youth mentorship, local business support, and charitable events. As a member, you can propose and lead projects that matter to you.
Your Leadership Journey Starts Now
Don't wait to become the leader you're meant to be.
JCI Kelowna is where ambition meets opportunity, where ideas become action, and where young professionals become community leaders.
Stay Connected with JCI Kelowna.
Get monthly updates on upcoming meetings, community projects, and leadership opportunities. Join our community and be the first to know what's happening in JCI Kelowna.