Business Echo - Ceinwen Garcia

Business Echo is an interview series celebrating the incredible individuals shaping the Okanagan business landscape. Through candid conversations, we’ll dive into their journeys, challenges, and triumphs, offering inspiration and insights along the way.

When it comes to creating spaces where women and entrepreneurs can truly thrive, few names shine brighter in the Okanagan than Ceinwen. A born-and-raised local and seasoned realtor with nearly two decades of experience, Ceinwen has built her career on more than just property—it’s built on people. As the founder of The Boss Network, she’s redefining what it means to network, connect, and grow in business.

In this edition of Business Echo, we sit down with Ceinwen to talk about The Boss Network, and her unwavering belief that community is the real foundation of success.

OE: Thank you for granting this interview. Could you please tell us a little about yourself?

CG: I’m a local born & raised realtor and the proud Founder of The Boss Network. I’ve been in the real estate industry about 19 years in one shape or form. I always joke that real estate is my first love… shhhhh, don’t tell me hubby. However, I knew that yeeears ago I wanted to give back and support women along with the entrepreneurial community as a whole. There was a path there that I just hadn’t discovered yet… Until now.  

OE: What was the spark behind launching The Boss Network, and how is it different from Boss Babe VIP?

CG: When my former business partner and I decided to close the chapter on Boss Babe VIP Networking, I knew I couldn’t just walk away — I had to pivot. This work, this community, it’s my calling. That’s how The Boss Network was born.

It carries pieces of what came before, but it’s evolved and my vision keeps growing. With the upcoming Boss Talks podcast, I’ll be featuring influential leaders from our community, sharing real stories and insights to inspire others.

And I’m beyond excited to share a little teaser… I’ll be hosting the first annual International Women’s Day Gala on March 7th at the Eldorado Resort! Stay tuned — this is only the beginning.

OE: As someone who wears many hats—writer, realtor, founder—what anchors you in the midst of it all?

CG: My husband and all my furbabies. Life can be tough and complicated, so when I feel it getting heavy, I retreat to my family and regroup. 

OE: You’ve built platforms that bring hundreds of entrepreneurs together. What do you believe is the secret to creating communities that truly thrive?

CG: It’s simple, a collective and cohesive community. We shouldn’t just be surviving together; we should be thriving together. Easier said then done I know, but this is where we can lean on each other and hold one another accountable. You may work in a position or career where you’re solely on your own, but what you need to know is that you’re not. This is a family at The Boss Network – we are ready to cheer you on, hold you accountable and pick you up when you fall. There is power in numbers.

OE: Can you share a moment in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

CG: Ah yes, my heart absolutely melted recently from the feedback I received about my event Buddy System. I created an option for attendees purchasing tickets to ask to be paired up with someone ahead of time — perfect for those who wanted to come but didn’t want to go alone. At my last event, about 15 individuals chose to participate, and hearing how those new connections turned into real friendships was incredibly special. One of my biggest goals is to create a space where no one ever feels left out.

OE: What’s a piece of advice you’d give to women looking to start their own business?

CG: Lean on others that have done it for themselves. We have a great community here in the Okanagan with leaders willing to help, so be sure to reach out to them and ask any questions you may have. If you need help connecting with someone, let me know and I can always do my best to facilitate an introduction.

OE: If you had unlimited funds for one day, what’s the first thing you’d do for your business? 

CG: It’s funny — when I first thought about this question, trying to answer it made me feel a little selfish, because if I had unlimited funds, my instinct wouldn’t be to spend it on my business at all. I’d want to use it to help others who don’t have much or who have mental health struggles.

But, to answer your question from a business perspective, I would invest it in marketing and building my brand. There’s incredible power in brand visibility. The smallest things can make the biggest impact. So, I’d make sure my brand was seen everywhere!

OE: What’s your favorite Okanagan spot to relax or find inspiration?

CG: I find inspiration and peace on the road, so when its time to unwind, lets take a drive anywhere. 

OE: What’s one thing about you that people might not know? 

CG: I’m definitely not McDonald’s material — true story! My very first job opportunity was with McDonald’s when I was about 15. After a couple of hours on my trial shift, they felt I wasn’t McDonalds material, so they handed me a McChicken and a smile and sent me on my way.

On a more serious note, I’m actually an introvert — and people never believe me when I say that. In fact, someone close to me recently tried to convince me otherwise (never let anyone tell you how you feel). I still get nervous walking into events that aren’t mine. I still overthink what I’m going to say before approaching someone. And I still panic a little when the person I’m chatting with slowly walks away, leaving me wondering who I’ll talk to next.

I share this because I want others to know they’re not alone in feeling that way. My advice? Keep showing up exactly as you are. Be authentically you. That’s where your true sparkle shines. Unapologetically. I see you, so keep going.

OE: How can people reach you?

CG: The best way is through email, thrive@thebossnetwork.ca. You can always find me on social media as well, Instagram.comm/thebossnetwork.ca