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 board of directors

Paul King

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.

**Irina McKenzie**

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

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

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.

Kevin Pennock

Kevin co-founded the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise (KORE) back in 2017 with the concept of creating an industry cluster of outdoor gear makers and product designers in the Kootenays and became Executive Director in April 2020. Kevin has taken KORE from a start-up non-profit to a leading outdoor rec-tech network in Canada and has introduced initiatives such as the KORE Summit, the Kootenay Approved campaign and is currently developing the KORE RE:hub, the Kootenay Hub for Outdoor Gear Circularity.

Laura eRRe

Laura eRRe is an accomplished marketing and business strategist specializing in the fashion and e-commerce industries. As the president of FASHION DIGITAL TALKS, she has a proven track record of driving innovation and success within these dynamic sectors. Through her extensive experience, eRRe has impacted over 40,000 people at events and workshops across Latin America and beyond.