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About us

Our
History

A champion of the Valley for over 80 years.

Established in 1935, The Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce has had a dynamic and influential past. And over the last five years, it has played an important role in supporting key initiatives, such as the re-branding of the Creston valley area, and in driving community engagement programs.

The Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that has been serving the Creston Valley community since 1951. The organization was initially established as the Creston Board of Trade, and its primary objective was to promote local businesses and the community’s economic growth. In 1953, the Board of Trade was officially renamed the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Over the years, the Chamber has played a vital role in the Creston Valley’s development, serving as a platform for businesses to network and collaborate on community initiatives. The Chamber has been instrumental in lobbying for infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of the Creston and District Community Complex, which houses a swimming pool, arena, and fitness center.

The Chamber has also been a significant advocate for the Creston Valley’s agricultural sector, promoting local farmers and their products. The organization hosts events such as the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market and the Creston Valley Blossom Festival, which celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage.

Today, the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce continues to serve as a vital resource for businesses and the community, promoting economic development and supporting local initiatives.

Our Mission

To create positive change in our community through dedicated service, collaborative partnerships, and sustainable solutions that address critical needs and empower individuals to thrive.

Our Vision

A vibrant, inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute to the collective wellbeing of society.

Board of
Directors

Melanie Joy

President

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Natasha Huscroft

Vice President

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Denné Ahlefeld

Board Member

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Anne Froelich

Secretary

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Barbara Hunter

Board Member

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Esme Gloster

Board Member

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Karen Peck

Board Member

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Megan Hadikin

Board Member

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Kristal Shaw

Treasurer

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Sandy Nickel

Board Member

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Meet the
Team

Jessica Piccinin

Executive Director

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Madeline Tribble

Chamber Manager

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Dylan Leayr

Creative Director, Hello Agency

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Mel Joy

President

Hi, my name is… Melanie Joy. I’ve called Creston home for over 30 years and am proud to serve as President of the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce. Before taking on this role, I owned Fly in the Fibre for eight years—an experience that brought both the most rewarding and most challenging years of my working life. I’m currently a bookkeeper at Denné Ahlefeld’s accounting office, where I get to work alongside and support a wide range of local businesses.


I’ve always had a passion for strong governance and solution-focused collaboration, which has led me to serve on various local and provincial boards over the years. I’m a bit of a board junkie—I genuinely enjoy policy-building and being part of productive, forward-thinking teams.
Being part of this community matters deeply to me. I believe in the value of connection, advocacy, and working together to strengthen the place we all call home. A cause close to my heart is creating inclusive and sustainable opportunities for small businesses to thrive.
Right now, I’m focused on growing Chamber membership and ensuring our events reflect the needs and spirit of our community.


Outside of work… I enjoy knitting (when I can find the time!), catching up with friends over coffee, and planning the next great idea.


Fun fact… I speak fluent bookkeeping—and sarcasm. I can seamlessly switch between talking yarn, tax deadlines, and municipal policy all in the same conversation.

Natasha Huscroft

Vice President

Hello, my name is… Natasha Huscroft. I serve as the Vice President and Events Chair of the Chamber of Commerce, where I have been an active member for the past three years. In my role, I am dedicated to creating impactful events that strengthen the local business community through advocacy, collaboration, and shared resources.
Together with my husband, I co-own Kokanee Ford, a proud third-generation family business rooted in community values. Under our leadership, the company remains committed to giving back, with the belief that thriving commerce helps build resilient, connected communities.
I am passionate about fostering meaningful connections, supporting economic growth, and ensuring the long-term success of local businesses. I believe that success in business is a shared experience, and that when one business prospers, the entire community benefits.
Outside of work… I love spending time with my family, watching football (go Eagles!), working around the yard, meeting friends on sunny patios for cold drinks, going for walks or runs, playing soccer, and diving into a good book — I average about 30 a year!
A funny but accurate fact… I have a hard time letting a jar of Nutella sit in my cupboard for more than a couple of weeks—I’ll inevitably find a spoon, and the jar will be gone before I know it!

Denné Ahlefeld

Board Member

Hello, my name is… Denné Ahlefeld. I am a Chartered Professional Accountant here in town. I have been an accountant since 1998, obtaining my professional designation in 2001. I have lived in Creston for the last 17 years and have owned my accounting practice in town for just over 15 of those. My husband was born and raised in Creston and I am originally from Cranbrook. Currently I am a Director of the Chamber and have only been on the Board since sometime last year (i.e. 2024). I have always loved our Chamber and what it represents and does for our small business community.

Up until 2023 I was Treasurer of the Creston Public Library so unfortunately I only had time to be on one local Board due to my intense work schedule. Pre-COVID I was the external year-end accountant for the Chamber and I would instead contribute my expertise that way. I care deeply about our community at large, especially our small business community. I have seen what the recent recessions, increases in prices of core goods, plus COVID have done to everyone in that community.

Outside of work… I enjoy reading, camping with our core group of long-time friends, and going on motorcycle rides with my husband (as the passenger lol).

Fun fact… I love Halloween! My office transforms into a full-on haunted lair every year, and it’s not unusual to spot a skeleton (or three) riding shotgun in my car. One even lives in the corner of my office year-round.

Anne Froelich

Secretary

Hello, my name is… Anne Froelich. I currently work as an Admin Assistant for Denné Ahlefeld. Originally from France, I grew up in a small town near the German border and studied a mix of admin, accounting, and business right after high school. My goal at the time was to support small business owners.

After my studies, I spent a year in New Jersey as an au pair, which was an incredible experience. Over the years, I’ve lived in several countries, including Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Each place taught me something new and helped me grow personally and professionally. Eventually, I returned to France for a year before making my way to Creston.

I’ve been calling Creston home for over six years now. I first worked as a nanny and was fortunate enough to receive permanent residency through the Home Childcare Pilot Program. After that, I got my position at Denné’s for almost a year now as Administrative Assistant.

I’m looking forward to the opportunity to assist with note-taking in meetings. It’s a pleasure to be part of this amazing community!

Barbara Hunter

Board Member

Hello, I’m… Barbara Hunter. I have been a board member of the Creston Chamber of Commerce for the past six months. With a professional background in employment services, program facilitation, holistic counselling, and life coaching, I bring a well-rounded and people-centered perspective to the Chamber. My deep love for Creston and its vibrant community inspired me to get involved and contribute to its continued growth and vitality.

Giving back and helping to shape Creston into an even more wonderful place to live is close to my heart. I am especially passionate about supporting individuals through life transitions and empowering them to find meaningful work and connection. I’m currently focused on developing accessible coaching programs that support emotional well-being and personal development.

Outside of work… I enjoy exploring Creston’s cozy coffee shops and connecting with locals.

Fun fact… I’m a karaoke enthusiast and have even recorded my own CD!

Esme Gloster

Board Member

Hello, my name is… Esme Gloster. I hold a degree and diploma in Food Science from
the University of Pretoria and the Pretoria Technikon. I’ve worked as a product developer for two major dairy companies in South Africa. During that time, I was also part of a task force for the South African Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, where I contributed to research on the impact of pesticides on food and daily life.

Pursuing my passion for art, I returned to school to study it. However, I did not complete my degree, as this journey led to an unexpected opportunity to teach pottery, which eventually developed into a four-year tenure as a university lecturer. During this time, I co-founded, with my husband, an art store and gallery, where I taught various art workshops.

After moving to Canada, I transitioned into the health and wellness sector, serving as a Centre Coordinator for Weight Watchers in Alberta until the company shifted its focus. Since relocating to Creston, I have rekindled my passion for art and teach workshops in various mediums from my home studio, although not as often as I would like.

As the co-owner of Bindoya Meats and Treats, I have come full circle, returning to my roots in the food industry while merging my diverse experiences in food, art, and wellness.

Outside of work… you’ll often find me in my studio, immersed in my art or relaxing with a good book and a glass of red wine. It’s my little sanctuary where I find joy and peace.

Fun fact… I also used to work as a model before I got married and studied opera, which I never pursued.

Karen Peck

Board Member

Hello, my name is… Karen Peck. I’ve been proud to serve with the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce for over a year now, bringing my background in real estate, hospitality, and entrepreneurship to the table. As a local realtor and the owner of The Uptowner Hotel, I’m passionate about helping people plant roots and thrive in this beautiful valley. I joined the Chamber because I care deeply about supporting local businesses and building a community that feels like home—for families, farmers, and newcomers alike.

Outside of work… I love exploring the mountains, hiking local trails, and traveling to places that inspire fresh ideas and perspectives. Whether I’m discovering a new summit or a new city, I always come back to Creston feeling grateful to call this valley home!

Fun fact… I’m one of eight siblings, so teamwork (and a little chaos) comes naturally.

Kristal Shaw

Treasurer

Hello, my name is… Kristal Shaw. I joined the Chamber in March 2025 and bring a solid financial background as a former CPA and a designated Certified Professional Bookkeeper. My love for supporting small businesses is what led me to get involved, and I appreciate being able to play a hands-on role in the growth and direction of the local community. I care deeply about local entrepreneurship, sustainability, and ethical business stewardship of resources – both human and environmental.

Outside of work… I enjoy hiking, biking, playing piano, reading, crocheting, and baking.

Fun fact… I love a good road trip—I’ve driven to Chicago and Ontario a couple of times.

Sandy Nickel

Board Member

Hello, my name is… Sandy Nickel. I’m new to the Chamber and Creston, having moved here in July 2024. Retirement brought me to Creston, and a need to be busier brought me to the Chamber!

I’m born and raised in Calgary. Received my bachelor’s degree in psychology at the U of Calgary and my master’s degree in speech-language pathology at the U of Edmonton.

I have had many roles in my career, including front-line speech therapy, leadership/ management in healthcare, professional regulation, and government. I have both sat on, and reported to boards, and over time gained expertise in governance.

Here in Creston I’ve just started a small private SLP business serving children with articulation (pronunciation) difficulties.

Outside of work… I’ve been focused on renovating, gardening, and hopefully more hiking once fall and winter come back around.

Fun fact… I’m a cat person!

Jessica Piccinin

Executive Director

Hello, my name is… Jessica Piccinin. I’m the Executive Director of the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce, bringing a wealth of experience as a serial entrepreneur with a background in farming, food production, and finance.

Since joining the Chamber in 2024, I have been dedicated to strengthening community development and supporting businesses. Having lived in the Creston Valley for most of my life, I take pride in building strong relationships that contribute to the growth and success of the community.

Outside of work… I enjoy exploring the valley with my family and never miss an opportunity to visit a farmers market.

Fun fact… I used to play the clarinet in our local Army Cadet marching band.

Madeline Tribble

Chamber Manager

Hi, my name is… Madeline Tribble and I am the Manager at the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce. I grew up in a small town in Ontario and made the move to the Kootenays in 2020. After spending time in different parts of the region, I moved to Creston in February of 2025 and quickly fell in love with the breathtaking scenery and the strong sense of community.
I’ve always been an adventurer at heart, never one to settle until I found the perfect place to call home. I’m happy to say that Creston feels like exactly that, and I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a welcoming and vibrant community.
I have an educational background in Tourism, Digital Business Management, and Marketing, which I hope to use to support local businesses and help promote the unique charm of the Creston Valley. I’m passionate about community development, thinking outside the box, and making meaningful connections with locals.

Outside of work… I enjoy sunny days spent on hiking trails, at sandy beaches, around cozy campfires, or working in the garden. I also love getting creative with pottery, stained glass, and photography.

Fun fact… I love to travel and try new foods. I recently went on a road trip to California with my old van (Beau) in search of the best donut on the West Coast.