Name: Why Kelowna Still Thrives Through Wildfires & High Costs ft. Denys Storozhuk
Uploaded: 2026-08-11T11:46:31.577Z
Duration: 31 min 51 s
Description: Kelowna looks like paradise—but wildfire smoke, high costs, and seasonal business raise a bigger question: what keeps the Okanagan

Kelowna looks like paradise—but wildfire smoke, high costs, and seasonal business raise a bigger question: what keeps the Okanagan thriving?

From Ukraine to British Columbia, Denys Storozhuk explains why he chose Kelowna, built a life there, and believes Canada must keep supporting Ukraine.

In this episode, we break down:

Why Kelowna and the Okanagan remain major tourism destinations despite wildfire smoke and seasonal challenges
What brought Denys Storozhuk from Kyiv, Ukraine, to Kelowna more than two decades ago
Why immigrants often choose major Canadian cities—and what smaller communities like Kelowna can offer
Kelowna real estate, population growth, new development, and the pressures facing local businesses
Why seasonal tourism creates challenges for restaurants, hospitality, and other Okanagan businesses
Kelowna’s technology sector, manufacturing history, UBC Okanagan, and opportunities for economic diversification
The rise of Okanagan wine, winery tourism, water sports, and the experiences attracting visitors to British Columbia
How Kelowna Stands With Ukraine grew from a local rally into a major humanitarian fundraising effort
Ukrainian newcomers in Canada, work permits, employment, community integration, and pathways to permanent residency
Why Denys believes Canadian support for Ukraine matters for Europe, NATO, Arctic security, and Canada’s national interests
How the Russia-Ukraine war could end and the role Canadian volunteers are playing in Ukraine

Hosts: Mike Wixson
Guests: Denys Storozhuk

Timestamps: