2026 Executive Team
Steven Benjamin
President
A dynamic leader, community builder, and advocate for empowering young professionals across Canada. As President of JCI Kelowna, Steven champions the organization’s mission to develop leadership skills, foster meaningful connections, and drive positive change in local and national communities.
With a career rooted in both professional excellence and civic engagement, Steven brings a wealth of experience in organizational leadership, strategic growth, and community impact. His vision for JCI Kelowna in 2026 focuses on expanding membership, strengthening community ties, increasing visibility, and investing in leadership development opportunities for members. Steven’s leadership style is defined by inclusivity, innovation, and a passion for creating opportunities where young changemakers can thrive. He is pushing for re-engaging alumni and Senators, ensuring that JCI’s legacy of mentorship and collaboration continues to inspire new generations.
Beyond his role at JCI, Steven is recognized for his professional accomplishments and dedication to service. He is committed to building bridges between organizations, amplifying the voices of young leaders, and ensuring that JCI remains a household name in developing leaders in the community.
Cody Pollard
Past President
Cody first joined JCI Kelowna back in 2016 shortly after moving to Kelowna, and jumped in with both feet. He chaired or volunteered with every event over the next 3 years, and first joined the board in 2018 as External Events Director.
Since then, he has continued to volunteer with events, continued to serve on the Board, has attended countless socials, and attended several National and Regional Conventions. Cody owes a great deal of his personal growth to JCI, and has made too many lifelong friends to mention here. Professionally, Cody is the VP of Marketing for Kayak Distribution, overseeing the marketing for 8 brands across 23 countries.
Adam joined JCI after learning about the organization from a past member and quickly discovered it was the perfect fit. Inspired by the group's energy, diverse skill-building opportunities, and commitment to giving back, Adam found that JCI filled a missing piece in his life.
Adam has a background in real estate, where he thrives helping people find their dream homes. Adam believes in working hard and having fun in equal measure. As this year's Vice President, he's focused on growing JCI and helping the 2026 JCI executive be the best they can be. His goal? To make every JCI event unforgettable and bring the community together in exciting new ways.
Vice President
Adam Kilshaw
Amy Emmons
Amy was raised in Kelowna and have never left this beautiful city, besides travelling around the world for vacations. Amy works as a Commercial Insurance Advisor helping clients understand their options, planning for the future, and protecting what matters most- their business.
Amy was originally a Jaycee adjacent and quickly found out JCI was an organization she wanted to be a part of. after attending and volunteering at some events and social gatherings. The meaningful community impact, opportunities for self-development, and the chance to connect with some many great like-minded professionals and people are some main reasons Amy wanted to join JCI in 2024. Amy is excited to be joining the board this year and learn the ins and outs of the group from a different perspective.
Secretary
Anne-Marie Mizzi
Treasurer
Is excited to take on the role of Treasurer for the year. She is the proud owner of Avery Law Office and before becoming a lawyer got her degree in political science at St. Francis Xavier University. Anne-Marie joined JCI to make a positive impact in the community, meet great people, and grow her professional skills along the way. When she’s not immersed in the numbers or reviewing contracts, you’ll probably find her singing along at a country music concert or cheering at a hockey game.
Riley Bunce
Director of Communications
Riley joined JCI Kelowna in May 2025 with a mission to become more embedded in the Kelowna community while growing the network for Studio.909, his digital experience design agency. What started as a networking opportunity quickly evolved into a genuine passion for JCI's mission and values. With a background in brand strategy and user experience design, Riley brings a fresh creative perspective to the organization.
As Director of Communications for 2026, Riley is focused on levelling up JCI Kelowna's brand and digital presence to make it more appealing to the organization's target market. This includes a comprehensive website redesign that will showcase the organization's impact, enhance member engagement, and tell the stories that make JCI Kelowna special. With his expertise in brand systems, user experience optimization, and digital marketing, Riley is excited to amplify JCI's voice and ensure that every young leader in Kelowna knows exactly what JCI has to offer.
Dane Ashman
Director of Memberships
Dane joined JCI in May 2025 after attending his first chapter event. He was immediately intrigued by the leadership and professional development opportunities, as well as the group's initiatives to give back to the community. Having been raised in Kelowna, Dane is deeply invested in the region and values the opportunity to meet other like-minded and motivated people. Professionally, Dane works as a Junior Software Developer. When away from work, he spends plenty of time rock climbing in the beautiful Okanagan outdoors. As this year's Director of Membership, Dane is determined to spread the word about JCI, engage with the community, and help members maximize their experience.
Thomas Seikman
Thomas moved to Kelowna after living in Europe for 9 years and quickly came across JCI as a place to meet other like minded young people who aim up in life. He quickly involved himself on the organizing committee of the Kelowna City Sprint, and was especially motivated by the charitable nature of the organization.
As this years social director, he focuses on hosting varied and active events. Thomas believes JCI as an organization will thrive by focussing on personal development, friendship, laughter, and charity. His focus is on preparing a range of internal socials that are engaging to members and with a low barrier to entry. Looking forward to the spring and summer season, Thomas aims to get JCI outside, active and visible.
Director of Social Events
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.