Kylee Street, owner of Persistence Training Centre, was presented with an award for Female Owned Business of the Year by All Nations Trust Company on June 9.
All Nations Trust is an indigenous owned and operated institution which provides business grants and loans for Indigenous, Inuit, Métis and non-status individuals, as well as entrepreneur and business support.
Street was surprised to discover that she had been nominated for the award, and more so to find that she had won.
“This award was amazing to win because I had no idea I was even nominated for this award, and in the middle of a pandemic when gyms are closing mine is winning awards for overcoming obstacles and persisting through hard times,” said Street.
Street, who is Métis, wanted to dedicate the award to the many strong, indigenous women she has encountered in the Nicola Valley, and also to the memory of the 215 children recently discovered at the former Kamloops Residential School.
“I would like to dedicate and share this award with the many indigenous women I know that have started businesses in this town that are doing absolutely amazing,” said Street.
“I am absolutely honoured and humbled to have won this award, and I just want to bring light to the fact that we have many amazing indigenous women in this community that have started businesses and are doing amazing, and people that are overcoming obstacles.”
Street feels that her business is not just a gym, but a community, where people build each other up and focus on overall health and wellbeing. Street also works extensively with local First Nations bands to provide consistent fitness opportunities and a strong support system.
“This award isn’t just about what I’ve accomplished, it’s about what this facility stands for,” Street concluded.
