(TRI-CITIES) February 11, 2025 — As part of Chamber of Commerce Week in BC, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has named Ahyoung Baek as its 2025 Chamber Member of the Year. The Chef-Owner of Coquitlam's Pasta Polo restaurant will be celebrated at the Chamber's Business Excellence Awards gala on April 5.
"Ahyoung Baek is an exceptional member of our Chamber and the Tri-Cities community," said Leslie Courchesne, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber. "She is a successful local business owner who lives the values of our Chamber through and through. We are absolutely thrilled to honour her as the 2025 Tri-Cities Chamber Member of the Year."
"I am truly honoured to be named the Chamber of Commerce Member of the Year," said Ahyoung Baek. "This recognition is a testament to the fact that every Chamber member has the opportunity to be acknowledged for their contributions. I am proud to serve as a representative and an inspiration for fellow business owners. Thank you for this incredible honour!
"I believe in the power of community and women in business. As a female entrepreneur, I hope my journey can inspire other women to follow their passions, take risks, and make their mark in their respective industries."
Getting to know Ahyoung Baek
Tell us a bit about yourself, your business, and how long you've been active in the Tri-Cities.
I am the chef-owner of Pasta Polo, and I have had the privilege of running my business for decades. Serving the Tri-Cities since 2001, our restaurant is built on a passion for fresh, house-made pasta, locally sourced ingredients, and community connection. Over the years, it has been incredibly rewarding to share my love for the culinary arts while fostering relationships with the people and organizations that make this community so special.
Tell us what you love about the Chamber.
One of the things I appreciate most about the Chamber is how it brings businesses together. It provides invaluable opportunities for collaboration, networking, and support, strengthening the local business community. The Chamber is more than just a resource—it’s a connector, helping us build relationships that uplift and inspire.
What other organizations are you involved with in our communities?
Beyond our work in the restaurant, we are deeply committed to giving back through partnerships, donations, and fundraising efforts. We proudly support Share Family & Community Services, Kinsight, Access Youth, the Coquitlam Junior Hockey Team, Eagle Ridge Hospital, the Soroptimists, the Heritage Society, and, of course, the Chamber of Commerce, among many others. These partnerships allow us to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the well-being of our community.
Video: Business Spotlight on Ahyoung Baek, Pasta Polo
What would your message be to a business thinking about whether to join our Chamber?
To any business considering joining the Chamber—do it! The support, networking opportunities, and sense of belonging it provides are invaluable. Being part of the Chamber not only helps your business grow but also connects you with like-minded entrepreneurs who genuinely want to see each other succeed.
What is your favourite memory so far of the Chamber?
My favourite part of being a Chamber member is the strong sense of community it fosters. The encouragement, camaraderie, and shared commitment to supporting local businesses make it such a rewarding experience.
What is your favourite pastime, or fun fact about you people may not know?
Here’s a fun fact—before becoming a chef, I worked as a nail technician in Korea from the age of 18 for nearly four years! My journey then led me to study Hospitality Management and Commercial Cookery, ultimately shaping my path as a chef and entrepreneur.
Attend the Business Excellence Awards to celebrate Ahyoung Baek as the 2025 Chamber Member of the Year, along with the finalists announced in seven award categories. Tickets are now on sale.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,300+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Leslie Courchesne, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com
604.468.6870