MIKE & JANET AZHADI 
Proprietors

Mike's experience spans over 40 years in business, engineering, and manufacturing. During this period Mike has worked with the largest global corporations in hospitality industries. Specifically, he worked in restaurants and manufacturing environments in worldwide executive leadership and ownership capacities. He strives to lead and work with a great team and take Ex Nihilo to an even higher level in enhancing and differentiating the brand. 
 

Janet has worked in the Health Care Industry as a registered nurse, leader and educator for over 30 years. She is passionate about improving people's lives and focuses her time on her family as well as local and international philanthropy causes.
 

As passionate wine lovers with a desire to bring people together, Mike and Janet became principal owners of Ex Nihilo in 2018 and in 2023 they became sole proprietors of Ex Nihilo.

 

With two other  wineries currently under development, Mike and Janet are excited about building exceptional wine experiences in the Okanagan.

 

JIM FAULKNER 
Winemaker

Jim joined the Ex Nihilo Family in 2020 after working in various positions at Cedar Creek, Summerhill Pyramid Winery and Church and State. Most recently Jim was the head winemaker at West Kelowna's Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery since 2009. 

Jim loves that everyday is different in the winery. Some days you're in the vineyards and it's social and some days you're squishing grapes and it's physical. But everyday is a good day. 

When he is away from the winery, Jim calls his greatest passion spending time with his wife and two children, preferably in a foreign country with wineries and vineyards. 

It is noteworthy that Jim was previously involved in making wines with Ex Nihilo during their early years. 

 

Bio coming soon...

ANWAR SARDER
Vineyard Manager

Anwar started working with Ex Nihilo in 2007, first part time working in the vineyard as a weekend warrior, then full time since 2015.

As Vineyard Manager, Anwar takes care of the vineyards, helps in the cellar, production and overall maintenance. 

DANNY TIPPER
Executive Chef

Our Executive Chef, Danny Tipper was born and raised in Kelowna, BC. He attended post secondary culinary school in Vancouver.

Upon his return to the Okanagan, he honed his skills while perfecting his art at local favourites including Quails’ Gate Estate Winery and Waterfront Wines.

PEPIJN VAN HOOF
Executive Sous Chef

Bio coming soon...

 

 

BREANNA STIENSTRA 
Wine Club Coordinator

Growing up just five minutes down the road from our beautiful vineyard, this Lake Country local is our go-to-gal for everything Wine Club. 

Continuing to build her industry and hospitality education and expertise everyday, Breanna holds a true love for wine and viniculture.

Breanna became a part of the Ex Nihilo Family in 2018 starting out as a spectacular Tasting Room Associate. Her outstanding work ethic, attention to detail and witty charm has brought her to where she is today, running our fabulous Wine Club. 

HEATHER BAKAY
Director of Finance
 

Bio coming soon...

LYNN STEENWYK
Bookkeeper

 

Bio coming soon...