Who are the founders of the Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre?
Lee Smith – Co-Founder of Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre
Lee Smith, a dedicated horticulturist and entrepreneur based in Victoria, B.C., has significantly contributed to the local landscaping and agriculture sectors. He is the owner of Saanich Tuf-Turf, a local supplier of live and synthetic turf, soils, compost, mulches, and aggregates. Lee acquired Tuf-Turf during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since implemented numerous improvements to enhance its offerings.
Before venturing into business ownership, Lee spent 15 years as a senior gardener at the renowned Butchart Gardens, where he honed his expertise in gardening and sod cultivation. His commitment to the industry is further demonstrated by his past board membership with the BC Landscape and Nursery Association (BCLNA), where he played a pivotal role in bringing educational programs to Vancouver Island for both professionals and homeowners. Lee collaborated with the Capital Regional District (CRD) to promote environmentally conscious landscaping practices, emphasizing the creation of landscapes that harmonize with the local environment.
In addition to Tuf-Turf, Lee owns Lee Smith Landscapes, a company specializing in comprehensive commercial and residential landscaping services, including softscape and hardscape solutions.
Lee's vision for the Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre is to offer focused education for local gardeners and homeowners, empowering them to develop environmentally responsive green spaces. His extensive experience and passion for sustainable agriculture are instrumental in fostering a self-reliant agricultural community in Saanich.
John Espley – Co-Founder of Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre
John Espley is a prominent business professional and community leader in Victoria, B.C., renowned for his expertise in communication, networking, and customer service. As the founder of Connection Skills, John offers consulting services that help individuals and organizations enhance their online communication, business networking, engagement, and interpersonal skills.
John's leadership experience includes serving as a Chairperson or President of several local business organizations including time as the Chair of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in 2012, where he played a significant role in helping local businesses and fostering economic development in the region.
His dedication to the business community was recognized when he was named the Chamber's Member of the Year in 2021.
Beyond his professional endeavours, John is actively involved in various community initiatives and organizations, reflecting his commitment to building strong, connected communities. His passion for the local not-for-profit community has seen John hold board roles on many different community support groups. He was once even recognized as an Unsung Islander by CHEK News for his community-focused efforts on behalf of Accent Inns & Hotel Zed (where he worked for 30 years retiring as the Director of Marketing). His experiences include work for the former BC Hazmat and several organizations in the construction-related field.
At the Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre, John leverages his extensive business experience, communication skills and community engagement to create a collaborative environment where the centre hopes to really connect with the region's not-for-profit and community focus organizations.
Lee and John met through networking. John started working with Lee on a human resources project which turned into a part-time role with Tuf-Turf managing both the human resources and marketing segments of the business. A few years later and together they have partnered to bring together and launch this unique agricultural and community venture.
Together, Lee Smith and John Espley combine their diverse expertise and shared commitment to community development to lead the Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre, fostering a vibrant hub for sustainable agriculture and local engagement in Saanich.