🌊 From Island Life to Valley Life!
Born and raised in Sointula, a tiny Finnish community of about 500 people on Malcolm Island, I traded "small island" life and headed to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island after graduating in 1996. Along the way, I collected a few diplomas and a degree in Geography, Liberal Studies, Physical Education, and Tourism Studies. Apparently, I liked school!!
🐬 Making a Splash in the Valley!
In 2002, I swam my way into the Columbia Valley and never looked back! From hotel front desks and ski lifts to lifeguarding, teaching swimming, landscaping, and managing aquatic facilities at Fairmont and Panorama, I’ve worn more hats than a dolphin has fins!
I even ran my own aquatic training business from 2009–2017, teaching everything from swimming lessons to lifesaving and first aid. I hung up my whistle in 2017 to spend more time with my identical twin girls.
🏡 Trading Flippers for Strata Files!
In 2016, I dove into the world of strata management at Mountain Creek Properties. By 2018, I was a licensed strata manager, and from 2019–2024, I was juggling General Manager duties and my own portfolio of properties. After learning the ropes from the late William Weissig (R.I.P Aug'23), I finally swam away from strata life in October 2024.
🚗 A New Pod, A New Adventure!
In spring 2023, I spotted a need in the Columbia Valley: locals and visitors needed safe, reliable rides to golf courses, restaurants, pubs, events, and beyond!
What started as a few rides “by donation” quickly made waves! With plenty of determination, paperwork, and incredible community support, Dara’s Dolphins officially received its passenger transportation licence in April 2024.
🐬 From One Dolphin to a Growing Pod!
After navigating a sea of temporary permits, both September 2'25, and April'26 brought another huge splash — approval to add three more year-round vehicles, bringing the fleet to FOUR!
What started as one little idea has grown into a whole pod of possibilities!
