Tasting Festival presented by:
Argus Hospitality Group
Join us for OC Cultivates - Stimulate your tastebuds and your mind!
Meet and mingle over delicious pairings, then sit back and enjoy storytelling from renowned local innovators passionate about Okanagan food, beverage and tourism.
SOLD OUT! Thanks for your support.
Please note: This is a 19+ event
Tasting Festival and Innovators in Conversation
Join us Thursday, May 2, 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Centre for Learning, E Building, Kelowna campus
Okanagan College, 1000 KLO Road
5:30 p.m. - OC Cultivates Food and Beverage Tasting Festival - Presented by Argus Hospitality Group
- Food and beverage tastings offered by local producers and restaurants
- Opportunity to mingle and network with industry leaders in food, beverage and tourism
- Your own take-home stemless wine glass
7 p.m. - Innovators in Conversation- Rising to the challenge: The role of innovation and entrepreneurship in driving this region's food, beverage and tourism industries
- Hosted by AM1150’s Phil Johnson, the conversation will feature storytelling from esteemed leaders in Okanagan food, beverage and tourism
- Featured speakers include Audrey Surrao, Chief Clarence Louie, Dr. Neil Fassina and Tony Stewart
OC Cultivates Innovators: Presenter Bios
Audrey Surrao
Audrey Surrao is a force in the world of culinary excellence and hospitality. Audrey, along with business partner and co-owner Chef Rod Butters, has masterfully crafted a small culinary empire that has redefined the dining scene in Kelowna and beyond. Her deep-rooted connections have contributed significantly to the region’s gastronomic evolution.
Chief Clarence Louie
Chief Clarence Louie is an innovator and entrepreneur with success in building tourism and industrial enterprises and has been Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band for over 36 years. A recognized national leader in Indigenous economic development, he has received regional, national and international recognition, including the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada
Dr. Neil Fassina
Dr. Neil Fassina became Okanagan College's President in April 2021. A thought-leader, collaborator and visionary with over 15 years of experience in academic leadership, he advocates to increase access to post-secondary education and lifelong learning opportunities, specifically through collaboration and partnership with communities, business and industry, and the public sector.
Tony Stewart
Tony Stewart is the CEO of BACAS Family Estates and Quails’ Gate Estate Winery. An innovator and leader in the winery and culinary industries, he is passionate about developing one of Canada’s top wine brands and committed to establishing the Okanagan Valley as North America’s leading wine and culinary region.
Host Phil Johnson
Phil Johnson interviews local, national, and international guests skewed towards locally-based issues. He also presents information on the buzz topics of the day through interviews and guests.
Tastings generously provided by:
OC supports and training
Continuing Studies and Corporate Training
Be inspired to learn with Continuing Studies and Corporate Training at Okanagan College, providing you with in-demand skills that work for your life, your business and your career. Develop skills that employers are looking for and take your career to the next level.
Explore Continuing studies programs
Careers Hub
Careers Hub is where Okanagan College trained talent and community partners intersect to build key connections and valuable employment relationships.
Careers Hub facilitates pathways for Okanagan College students and alumni to connect with employment and Work Integrated Learning opportunities, and provides the opportunity for valued community partners to hire and make direct connections with OC students.
Tourism Management Diploma
This diploma is designed to give students real-world knowledge, skills and opportunities to advance careers in the mountain resort tourism sector. Upon graduation, students will be ideally suited for supervisory or front-line management positions in tourism.