The annual Best of Richmond features individuals who live and/ or work in Richmond to help make it one of the best communities in which to live. This year the Richmond News interviewed 10:
Shaena Furlong is the newly appointed president and CEO of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce. She spent the last decade working for the organization in various capacities, most recently as its Director of Operations. Born and raised in the Lower Mainland, Shaena has deep roots to the community. She spent the early part of her career working for Richmond-based Great Canadian Gaming Corporation and the Richmond Review.Shaena studied English literature at Concordia University in Montreal, and Non-Profit Management at Simon Fraser University.Shaena is passionate about connecting members to each other and finds inspiration in the creative, passionate members she gets to work with every day. Outside of the office, she can be found working on embroidery, running along to an audiobook or enjoying nature.What do you like best about Richmond?
It’s all about the people. I think that once you start coming out to events and networking in Richmond, this city can feel very much like a small town. Everyone is always willing to help each other out, volunteer or share good ideas.
How do you stay healthy in Richmond?
I’m a runner. Last week I “discovered” my perfect Richmond running route – over the Canada Line bridge into Richmond, along the pathways on the North arm of the Fraser and then back over the Knight Street Bridge into Vancouver where I live. It’s a perfect 15-kilometre loop with great views.
What’s your favourite area of nature in Richmond?
I don’t think there’s a more peaceful place than Shell Road Trail in the summer. Somehow right in the heart of the city, there’s a perfectly serene strip of nature.
What song best describes Richmond?
This Must Be the Place – The Talking Heads
