The Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization comprised of over 380 businesses, professionals, residents and community groups working collectively to establish and promote businesses and services for economic and social prosperity in Parksville and surrounding areas. 

 

This event marks the launch of the Chamber’s 2026 year, bringing together members, their teams, and volunteers for an evening of connection and appreciation. The evening will highlight the value and benefits of Chamber membership, share priorities for the year ahead, and recognize the employees and volunteers who contribute to a strong and vibrant business community.

While appreciation is often reserved for year-end, this evening is intentionally held at the beginning of the year, creating space to start 2026 with gratitude, momentum, and meaningful connection.

Tickets are available for individual attendees, and tables may also be purchased for organizations wishing to attend as a group. Members are encouraged to invite employees, and nonprofit organizations are welcome to bring volunteers or individuals they would like to recognize and appreciate as the year begins.

Tables are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.  RESERVE NOW! $57.75 pp for members, $68.25 for non-members. 

NEW MEMBER BREAKFAST

January 15, 2026 - 7:30 a.m.  at Ricky's Family Restaurant in Parksville 

January 29, 2026 - Welcome Back event 

BUSINESS AFTER BUSINESS

February 19 - Book this date!
March 19 - Monteith Group Moving & Storage
April 16 - CR Lawyers
May 21 - Book this date!
June 18 - Book this date!
September 17 - Book this date!
October 15 -Book this date!
November 19 - Book this date!
December 17 - Book this date!

Book your 2026 date today. Business After Business events are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Email   

On behalf of the Executive of the Board of the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce, I want to extend our appreciation to Liette Masse for her leadership, dedication, and support over the past 6 months and during this time of transition. Her commitment to the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce has been greatly valued, and we are grateful for her efforts in ensuring continuity during this period. We will continue to work closely with Liette throughout this transition, and we look forward to collaborating with her in her new role as Interim CEO of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce.

As outlined in our bylaws, an executive may step in to support the organization during leadership transitions. With this in mind, the Executive is pleased to confirm Dr. Omar Karim as our Interim Executive Director.

Dr. Omar Karim is a Professor in the Faculty of Management and Law at Vancouver Island University (VIU), where he leads the MBA Work-Integrated Learning program. He has over a decade of experience in leadership development, organizational strategy, and business-community engagement. He holds an MBA, an MSc in International Business, and a Doctorate in Higher Education. His work includes supporting Indigenous communities and contributing to national reconciliation initiatives through the Moose Hide Campaign, alongside broader efforts in equity and inclusive leadership. Dr. Karim also leads skill and leadership development programs for youth and emerging professionals, partnering with institutions in Canada and in over 25 countries. He recently spoke at the United Nations International Diplomats Conference in Thailand on global leadership and community development.

As Interim Executive Director, Dr. Karim is focused on strengthening relationships with local businesses, enhancing member value, and supporting inclusive economic growth in the region.

Over the coming months, Dr. Karim will work closely with the Board, staff, members, and community partners to stabilize operations and support a renewed focus on the Chamber’s strategic priorities. We are grateful for his willingness to step into this role during an important time for the organization.

Sincerely,

Barrie McWha, President

Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce