Ken Charko is a Vancouver business leader and a west side, Kerrisdale, Dunbar and Pt. Grey advocate. Ken is the past president of the Hillcrest community Centre, winner of the best in Vancouver for the past five years. Ken is the proprietor of the Dunbar Theatre, a staple in the community for over 80 years and an internationally recognized independent theatre. The WestJet travel magazine named The Dunbar Theatre one of the five most Iconic Theatres in North America.
As a business owner, Ken is fully aware of the day-to-day struggles of entrepreneurs in Vancouver-Quadra and Canada. When COVID hit, Ken rolled up his sleeves and adjusted his theatre to the new normal and he did so while keeping all his employees during the lockdown. In short, Ken has strengthened our local economy and enriched our culture.
Ken’s commitment to the people of Vancouver-Quadra is reflected in his being awarded the Trinjan Diversity Award – an award given by Trinjan & Mata Gujri Foundation for commitment to diversity in the workplace.
Ken Charko’s public service includes volunteering for national organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross, the Vancouver Olympic Committee, and the Vancouver Paralympic Committee. Ken has also volunteered his time to provide students at the Vancouver Film School with information and advice on aspects of the Motion Picture industry.
Ken serves as a Director on the Board of the Motion Picture Theatre Association of BC, where he represents independent theatre owners across the province. This commitment to represent independent small business owners has resulted in Ken being elected to the MPTA’s board for the past 20 years. Ken now serves as the Vice President and acting President of the Motion Picture Association. In addition, he is the recipient of the Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year, Mayor Gregor Robertson nominated Ken for the Vancouver Business Environmental innovator of the Year award and has been recognized nationally by the Motion Picture industry for his resilience during the pandemic.
Ken Charko believes in and invests in Vancouver’s future. Ken believes in and supports the arts, small business owners, and community development. With the support of the people of Vancouver.