In winter of 2023, Sun Peaks Resort LLP (SPR) first introduced its ambassador program. Ever since it grew to include summer ambassadors, both groups playing a role in Sun Peaks’ operations and marketing. 

With this year’s list announced Christina Antoniak, director of brand and communications at SPR reflected on the program’s benefit to the resort. 

“The ambassador program has provided us a way to connect with the local skiing and riding community in a meaningful way,” she said. “It allows us to bring Sun Peaks storytelling to our guests and the public from a different perspective, but always rooted in a knowledge of and passion for these mountains.”

This year those different perspectives include competitive athletes, senior skiers and Indigenous representation. 

“We have a nice spread of generations represented in this winter’s ambassador cohort, ranging from 19 to 76 years old,” Antoniak said. “The ambassadors come from different backgrounds and points in life and I think most people will see themselves in one of the ambassadors.”

From slopes to competition 

Snowboarder Katie Brayer, is balancing high-level competition with her role as a resort staff member.

Brayer competes in slopestyle and big air events on the North American Cup circuit and has been riding in Sun Peaks for nearly a decade. Originally from Kamloops, she also works in the terrain park, giving her a dual perspective as both an athlete and an employee.

“The resort helps a little bit financially to support competitions, which is really nice because it can be pretty expensive,” Brayer explains. “In return, we help with photo shoots, video shoots and other media projects when needed. It works really well for both sides.”

Brayer was drawn to snowboarding after switching from skiing as a child and has never looked back. This season, some of her favourite moments have been simple ones, riding a fully-built terrain park again and spending time on the mountain with friends as conditions improved.

Looking ahead, she said she’s excited to continue representing Sun Peaks while traveling to competitions across Canada.

“I travel to a lot of different resorts,” Brayer said. “It’s really cool to have Sun Peaks stickers on my board and be able to say that this is my home resort.”

A lifetime of skiing and community

At 76 years old, Ray Kehl, the first-time winter ambassador, represents decades of connection to Sun Peaks. Kehl and his wife have spent the past 13 winters living in the village after purchasing their home in 1998. For him, joining the ambassador program felt like a natural next step.

“Sun Peaks has given us so much over the years,” Kehl said. “It’s truly enriched our lives and it just felt right to give something back.”

As a winter ambassador, Kehl’s role includes participating in photo and video shoots, welcoming guests and promoting the resort through personal connection and enthusiasm.

“It’s my small way of mentoring the spirit of Sun Peaks,” Kehl said.

Skiing has been a constant throughout his life since learning to ski at the age of 12. He later joined the Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol, and after retiring 15 years ago, he has skied nearly every day during the winter season.

“We ski close to 100 days a year,” Kehl said. “One season I even hit 129 days.”

What keeps him coming back is what many skiers love about Sun Peaks: three distinct mountains, terrain for every skill level and consistent snow.

“Some of us like to joke and call it ‘Disneyland for seniors,’” he said. “But really, it’s just an incredible place to spend your life.”

Representation and Sacred Slopes

Another first-time ambassador, Dario Antoine, brings a different but equally impactful perspective to the program. Antoine is a member of the St’uxwtéws (Bonaparte) First Nation and began snowboarding at the age of 18 after playing hockey for 16 years.

For Antoine, being part of the ambassador team is about visibility and empowerment.

“Being able to ride for Sun Peaks and represent my local First Nation is pretty powerful,” he said. “It’s about empowering youth to try a sport that isn’t always accessible.”

Snow sports can be expensive and Douglas noted many Indigenous youth do not always see themselves reflected in mountain culture. One of his goals as an ambassador is to help change that narrative.

Antoine was also part of the iniative Sacred Slopes, a community ride designed to bring First Nations youth to the mountain. 

“We just completed our first Community Ride Day on Jan. 24,” he said. “It was really fun and had a great turnout.”

Looking ahead, Antoine hopes to continue hosting Sacred Slopes events and collaborating with other ambassadors.

“I’m excited to ride with the rest of the team, learn where everyone comes from and see what we can build together,” he said.

Other ambassadors include Nayte Brown, Alysha Pastor, Janna Brown, Craig Renwick, Elli Terwiel and Meaghan Curtis. 

Upcoming ambassador opportunities 

The next ambassador intake will be for the summer position and the details will be available in spring on SPR’s website. 

“All ambassador applications are reviewed by the director of communications and director of marketing,” Antoniak explained. “We evaluate how well they’ve pitched their story, why they believe they should be an ambassador and how meaningful their connection is to the resort and community.”

The ambassador program also includes an athlete stream, supporting competitive skiers and riders.

“With two competitive athletes represented this season, we’re proud to support their pursuits through recognition, exposure and cash sponsorship,” Antoniak said.