We’re a collective of Apparel and Gear professionals united through passion and commitment to bring BC’s brand’s together to create a future that supports all our growth and sustainability goals.
Our VIsion
BC Apparel and Gear holds space for diverse perspectives to create and make clothing that is uniquely west coast. We celebrate functional and fashionable design and support brand building and job creation in super, natural, BC.
Meet the team
Paul King
Board Member
As KenDor’s President, Paul does much more than run day-to-day operations. With authentic enthusiasm, he simultaneously heads up the global sourcing and sales teams. Paul is often the first call for many seasoned industry veterans and new designers alike trying to find anything garment related.
sarah murray
Board Member
Sarah is the Fashion Program Coordinator at Vancouver Community College. Over the course of her 20+ years in the industry, her mission has always been to promote, sell and teach local designers. This has been expressed in her fashion career which has included roles as publicist, sales rep, journalist, fashion show producer, and Community Liaison at Vancouver Fashion Week.
Irina McKenzie
Board Member
Irina McKenzie is a social entrepreneur and the founder of FABCYCLE, a Textile Waste Re-Use center. She is a key advocate for sustainability and the circular economy in the fashion industry, focusing on reducing textile waste and promoting innovative ways to repurpose fabric. Irina collaborates with local apparel manufacturers and fashion designers to integrate sustainable practices into business. Her work has gained significant media attention, positioning her as a leader in the social enterprise sector and making a substantial impact on the Vancouver fashion community.
Lana Markelova
Board Member
Lana is the founder of La Mark Sport - activewear for women with focus on fashion and performance. Being passionate about wellbeing Lana is taking her inspiration from the outdoor activities that British Columbia offers. Having Vancouver is one of the most diverse cities in the World as a home for La Mark sport - Diversity is not only the key value, it is a part of the company's DNA.
Maya Omrani
Board Member
Maya Omrani is the founder and Creative Director of WearLab, a Vancouver-based design and production studio specializing in sustainable, local manufacturing. With a strong background in technical design, pattern making, and production management, Maya has led projects for top North American brands. Her hands-on approach ensures quality at every stage, from concept to delivery. Maya is dedicated to eco-conscious fashion, helping both startups and established brands streamline production processes. Fluent in English and Farsi, she fosters innovation and sustainability in the fashion industry.
Heather Clark
Board Member
Heather Clark, a faculty member with the Wilson School of Design with KPU, brings enthusiasm for supporting learners in the space of education related to the apparel industry. As a PhD candidate, she is engaged in research in the space of apparel and textile based education related to culture, heritage, identity, handcraft, and community, all of which are encompassed in her work to support learners and education in the field of fashion and apparel.
Jocelyn PArent
Operations Coordinator
Meet Jocelyn, a retail expert with nearly a decade of experience in Vancouver's vibrant community. Graduating from VCC's Fashion Merchandising Certificate program in 2021, she is passionate about building strong community connections and creating systems and processes that help things run smoothly.