The Importance of Leadership in Entrepreneurship
Leadership plays a pivotal role in the success of any business, and for Kris Thorkelson, the CEO of Thorwin Properties, it has been the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial journey. Over the years, Kris has built a reputation not only for his business acumen but also for his ability to inspire and guide others. His leadership approach is rooted in empowering those around him, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Kris believes that leadership is not about authority but about influence—the ability to guide, mentor, and inspire others to achieve their full potential. This mindset has helped him grow Thorwin Properties into a highly successful real estate company managing over 2,400 apartment units in Winnipeg.
Leading by Example: Setting the Standard for Success
One of the most powerful ways Kris Thorkelson inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs is by leading through action. From the beginning of his career, Kris has believed that hard work, integrity, and a clear vision are the cornerstones of successful leadership.
When he founded Thorwin Properties in 2010, he committed himself to building a business that prioritized quality housing and exceptional service. Through his example, Kris demonstrates that success is not simply about financial gain—it’s about creating value for customers, employees, and the community. His hands-on approach to business management has set a strong example for aspiring entrepreneurs who look up to him.
Kris’s leadership philosophy extends to his internal team. By fostering a company culture rooted in trust, collaboration, and accountability, he empowers his employees to take ownership of their roles. This leadership style has contributed to the consistent growth of Thorwin Properties and inspired his team to operate with excellence.
Mentoring and Supporting Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Kris Thorkelson understands that mentorship is one of the most impactful ways to inspire future entrepreneurs. Having experienced the challenges of starting and growing a business himself, Kris recognizes the value of sharing knowledge and providing guidance to those who are just starting their entrepreneurial journey.
Through mentorship, Kris has supported emerging entrepreneurs by offering insights on business strategy, financial management, and sustainable growth. His approach is centered on helping young leaders navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship while maintaining their passion and purpose.
Kris also encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace failure as a part of the learning process. He believes that setbacks are inevitable, but how one responds to them is what ultimately defines success. By sharing his own experiences with challenges and failures, Kris empowers young business leaders to stay resilient and keep pushing forward.
Promoting Innovation and Creativity
As an entrepreneur, Kris Thorkelson places a high value on innovation and creativity—two essential components for long-term business success. In his role at Thorwin Properties, Kris consistently looks for innovative ways to improve property management, enhance tenant experiences, and increase operational efficiency.
Kris believes that fostering a culture of innovation within a company encourages employees to think creatively, find solutions to challenges, and drive growth. This mindset extends beyond his own business; he also advocates for innovation in the broader entrepreneurial community. By encouraging future business leaders to think differently and challenge the status quo, Kris hopes to inspire groundbreaking ideas that shape the future of business and real estate.
Furthermore, Kris supports community-led initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and innovation. Whether through local business events, speaking engagements, or collaborative partnerships, he remains deeply invested in nurturing a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Winnipeg and beyond.
Giving Back: Supporting Future Business Leaders
Kris Thorkelson believes that true leadership goes beyond business success; it also involves giving back to the community and supporting future leaders. Through his philanthropic efforts, Kris has contributed to educational programs, local charities, and community organizations that help individuals develop their skills and entrepreneurial ambitions.
One of the key areas where Kris focuses his giving is in education. By supporting educational institutions and entrepreneurial training programs, he hopes to provide aspiring business leaders with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed. Kris understands that the next generation of entrepreneurs has the potential to drive significant economic and social impact, and he is committed to playing a role in their development.
In addition, Kris remains involved with various business mentorship programs where he shares practical insights and real-world business strategies. His approach to mentorship emphasizes practical learning, problem-solving, and cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset.
Fostering a Culture of Collaboration
A strong leader understands the importance of collaboration, and Kris Thorkelson has built his business on the foundation of teamwork. At Thorwin Properties, Kris promotes a culture where employees, contractors, and business partners work together to achieve shared goals. This collaborative approach has not only driven business success but has also set an example for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Kris believes that businesses thrive when people work together toward a common vision. He encourages future business leaders to prioritize collaboration over competition, emphasizing that meaningful partnerships often lead to the most impactful business outcomes.
This mindset has also translated into Kris’s relationships with fellow business owners, industry leaders, and community organizations. By working collectively to solve community challenges and drive positive change, Kris hopes to inspire a future where businesses contribute to societal progress.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Kris Thorkelson’s approach to leadership is built on a clear mission: to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their passions, build sustainable businesses, and positively impact their communities. Through his example, mentorship, and dedication to innovation, Kris demonstrates that leadership is about creating opportunities for others to succeed.
He encourages future entrepreneurs to embrace their unique visions, take calculated risks, and prioritize long-term impact over short-term gain. His message to young business leaders is clear: success is not defined by profits alone but by the positive influence a business can have on people and communities.
As Kris continues to lead Thorwin Properties and support emerging entrepreneurs, his influence is shaping a future where leadership is defined by compassion, collaboration, and a commitment to making a difference. The legacy he is building extends far beyond real estate—it is a legacy of inspiring future generations to dream big, work hard, and lead with purpose.