Kelowna business owners Kyle and Carolyn Nixon have won the Business and Community Leader of the Year award for 2026.
Both Kyle and Carolyn were raised in Kelowna and attended Kelowna Secondary School. Carolyn earned a degree from the University of British Columbia, while Kyle earned a scholarship to play hockey at Minnesota State University.
Kyle was born into the business sector, as his parents owned several businesses, including the Hotel Eldorado.
The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce believes Kyle and Carolyn are deserving recipients of the award, said CEO Ester Pike.
“We are delighted to see Kyle and Carolyn Nixon recognized through the unanimous decision of our independent Judging Panel. When you look back at the remarkable individuals and businesses recognized throughout this award’s 39-year history at the Kelowna Chamber, the Nixons are certainly in good company. What stands out to me is not just the success of the business they’ve built, but the impact they’ve had on our community along the way. They’ve grown their vision into a diverse and thriving enterprise that now employs more than 500 people, creates memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike, and contributes so much to the vibrancy of Kelowna’s business community. They are a wonderful example of what local entrepreneurship can achieve.”
