TOP 7 OVER 70 - An awards program celebrating Calgary’s most energized and inspiring individuals over the age of 70
The inspiration for InterGen was the Top 7 Over 70 Gala in 2017, the incredible initiative that honoured 7 individuals over the age of 70 that accomplished outstanding things in our community! If you missed the inaugural Top 7 Over 70 Gala in 2017 or the second gala in 2019, you will not want to miss out on 2021! Each year has been a sold-out, entertaining and inspiring success! A combination of the vibrant, energetic honourees and the ever-engaging host, Dave Kelly, has made these events ones to remember. Read on for a quick intro to each of the Top 7 Over 70 Award Recipients for 2019!
Bob Brawn — An award-winning energy industry leader, whose volunteer and philanthropic contributions grow each year, with his new project being a unique 34-acre senior retirement complex;
Jacqueline Cameron — An inspirational woman who combined entrepreneurship with compassion, starting a successful clothing line for people with a variety of physical disabilities;
John Lacey — A long-time arts supporter, whose visionary leadership in this area has resulted in countless initiatives and programs that enrich our city;
Sylvia Rempel — A determined Canadian newcomer who created a $30 million sportswear business before developing a group of sewing charities that help women locally and globally;
Eldon Smith — A brilliant cardiovascular surgeon, who after age 70 began researching the anti-inflammatory properties of a marijuana derivative that could revolutionize heart treatment;
Ken Stephenson — A respected businessman who has achieved a myriad of successes after age 70, including the feat of bringing Canada’s first cardiac imaging centre to Calgary;
Gus Yaki — A dedicated environmentalist and tireless teacher who promotes respect for the land we so love, and is Calgary’s kingpin of birding and botany.
Top 7 Over 70 highlights individuals that have started or achieved something new over the age of 70. They have initiated exciting, entrepreneurial endeavors that inspire the community and contribute to the well being of society both in Canada and Internationally.
The vibrant contributions these people were making to the community seemed to be getting a bit overlooked by society and founder Jim Gray decided he was going to do something about that. He began dreaming — and talking — about an awards program that would recognize the contributions of community members after age 70.
The event showcases the remarkable ways retirees contribute to our economy and serves as an inspiration for us to focus on intergenerational entrepreneurship through InterGen.
Click here to learn more about our honourees and Top 7 Over 70.