YOUR CHAMBER STAFF

Sonja Nagel, Executive Director

Sonja joined the Chamber in June 2012 and brings to the Chamber a wealth of experience in the meetings and events business as well as the tourism industry. Most recently, Sonja worked as Manager of Member Services for a national membership organization. Previous roles included management positions with the City of Nanaimo and Tourism Nanaimo as well as the pre-opening sales and marketing for the new Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo. Sonja spent 10 years as a Senior Account Executive at the Victoria Conference Centre, and started her career in the tourism and hospitality industry during EXPO 86 as Convention Sales Manager, Tourism Vancouver. A long time resident of the Cowichan Valley, Sonja is passionate about the ongoing development of business and tourism opportunities in the area. She is ready to assist Cowichan businesses by providing advocacy, developing services and programs and bringing value to Chamber members.

K. Elizabeth Croft, Communication Manager

Elizabeth's background is in event organization and video production She owned and operated Croft Communication where she liased with major corporations to create educational and promotional videos. On the broadcast side she holds a national award for her documentary "Through a Mythic Lens". She has been on the Board for provincial and national professional associations. Elizabeth received the President's Award from ITVA Canada for Exceptional Service to the Industry. As a writer she's been published nationally in trade magazines, in Cottage Magazine, and others. Elizabeth also owns Writing On Stone Pres Inc, where she acquires, produces, edits and publishes career books. Elizabeth has a passion for community, and for making things happen.

Kirsty Grant, Visitor Services Coordinator

A longtime Cowichan Valley resident Kirsty is the Visitor Services Coordinator and manages the day to day operations of the Duncan-Cowichan Visitors Center. Kirsty was the chef/owner of the Avenue Eatery in Ladysmith after which she returned to work in her family business, Grant Jewellers.