Annual Report Venture Kamloops 2025

WellMind CounsellingVK Advisor

WellMind Counselling began with a simple belief: trauma-informed, anti-oppressive care should be accessible, human, and rooted in real connection. Launched in Kamloops in 2017 as a solo practice, it has grown into a team-based clinic offering in-person and virtual therapy across British Columbia. WellMind Counselling provides individual counselling for adults navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, and life stress, and offers reduced-rate services through practicum clinicians to increase accessibility.

WellMind Counselling was created in response to a gap in trauma care: an overreliance on cognitive, top-down approaches and too few bottom-up, body-based supports. Many clients were being asked to “think” their way out of nervous system injuries that required safety, attunement, and regulation first.

Through the Venture Kamloops Advisor program, WellMind Counselling assessed sustainability and growth. A key insight was that its clinically aligned niche was too geographically narrow for long-term viability. With guidance from Venture Kamloops, the practice expanded virtual counselling across British Columbia rather than broadening presenting concerns. Learning to alternate between building structure and pursuing growth. Strengthening systems, then taking the next step. This clarified strategy and improved operations.

WellMind Counselling partners with TRU, Interior Health’s Safe Spaces program, BC Forestry, and BC Ambulance Services to deliver trauma-informed workshops and presentations that promote compassionate, nervous-system-aware practice.

“Our mission is to make trauma-informed, anti-oppressive care not just a service, but a community value, one where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to heal.” Cecile Tucker

WellMind Counselling has been featured on national television, local radio, and publications including USA Today and The Beaver. With 200,000+ social media followers, WellMind Counselling extends its reach beyond Kamloops, making mental health information more accessible and helping normalize trauma-informed care.

Cecile Tucker’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: Growth can be exciting, but sustainability matters. Run the numbers, focus on what truly makes sense for the business, and build the systems needed to manage growth effectively.

MXS Electric Inc.VK Pivot+

MXS Electric Inc., a family-run electrical contracting company in Kamloops, has been delivering high-quality residential, commercial, and industrial electrical services since 2020. Founded by Master Electrician Max Simons and co-owner Stephanie Simons, the business has built a reputation for reliability, problem-solving, and professional execution. As demand for their services grew, Max and Stephanie recognized the opportunity to scale intentionally while maintaining the quality and care that clients had come to expect.

“We knew it was time to scale, but we wanted to do it intentionally, without losing the quality, accountability, and care that our reputation was built on,” shared Stephanie Simons, co-owner of MXS Electric Inc.

To support this next stage, the team joined the VK Pivot+ program. With mentorship and structured guidance, Max and Stephanie refined their long-term vision, strengthened financial planning, and implemented systems to support sustainable growth. Pivot+ also provided trusted perspective and accountability during a period of transition, helping ensure growth was supported by strong planning and clear direction. “We’re experts in our trade, but part of leadership is knowing when to bring experienced people into your corner. Pivot+ gave us the structure, insight, and confidence to move forward with clarity,” noted Max Simons, founder of MXS Electric Inc.

For other businesses considering Pivot+, MXS Electric Inc. recommends leveraging the program to step back, ask better questions, and make informed decisions with the support of experienced advisors.

Looking ahead, MXS Electric Inc. is focused on growing alongside the Kamloops community. From multi-family housing and renovations to custom commercial and industrial projects, the team is expanding its capabilities while staying true to its core values. With a clear direction, a strong foundation, and a growing team, Max and Stephanie are excited for the next chapter and continuing to contribute to Kamloops’ growth, one well-built project at a time.

Gemini SalonVK Accelerate

Gemini Salon is a boutique hair studio in the heart of downtown Kamloops, offering personalized, high-quality hairstyling services in a space designed for creativity, connection, and confidence. After six years of running a successful single-chair home salon, owner and stylist Jillian Varty took a major step forward by opening Gemini Salon as a multi-chair storefront. The move marks a major growth milestone, expanding her business from a one-woman operation into a community hub for passionate stylists and clients alike.

Through VK Accelerate, Jillian received support with business planning, growth strategy, and operations, helping her transition Gemini Salon into a sustainable business. “Venture Kamloops gave me the tools and direction to turn Gemini from a dream into a thriving salon space. Their support helped me navigate the big leap from home-based to a successful storefront," Jillian shared. The program connected her with valuable community resources and local professionals, from photographers and designers to marketing and finance experts. Gemini now collaborates closely with several nearby small businesses, fostering a creative ecosystem within the building and beyond. The salon continues to grow its local network through collaborative projects and events.

At its core, Gemini Salon is about empowerment, helping people feel like the most authentic version of themselves. Beyond hair, "we have a passion for creativity and community". Looking ahead, Jillian plans to expand Gemini Salon’s team by welcoming new chair renters and continuing to refine the salon’s client experience through education, events, and collaborations. With a growing reputation and strong community foundation, Gemini aims to become a destination for both beauty professionals and clients who value connection and craftsmanship. Reflecting on her journey, Jillian encourages new entrepreneurs to start before they feel ready and lean on their community, noting that great things happen when you take the leap.

“Surround yourself with people who want to see you win.”