Two Okanagan hospitality leaders named to B.C. Restaurant Hall of Fame

Two Okanagan hospitality leaders are being recognized for their contributions to B.C.’s food and tourism industries.

Kelowna’s Christina Ferreira and Okanagan-born chef Ned Bell are among 24 inductees in the 2026 B.C. Restaurant Hall of Fame class. The induction ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 19 in Vancouver.

Ferreira is being recognized in the Friends of the Industry category for her work in hospitality, event production and regional tourism. She founded Impact Events + Brand Management in 2008, growing the Kelowna-based company from a solo operation into a full-service event production agency.

Her company organizes major events and festivals, helping build connections between local businesses, tourism organizations and the hospitality industry. Ferreira also serves on the Tourism Kelowna board.

Bell is being inducted in the Local Champion category for his advocacy for sustainable food systems, responsible sourcing and food security.

The chef is co-owner of Hatch Hospitality and creative adviser for Okanagan College’s Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism. He is also a Buy BC champion and ambassador, co-chair of sustainability at the Chefs’ Table Society and author of Lure: Sustainable Seafood Recipes from the West Coast.

The Hall of Fame recognizes people who have helped shape B.C.’s restaurant and foodservice industry through leadership, innovation and service.