Kris Thorkelson, born on August 6, 1968, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is an accomplished entrepreneur and philanthropist with a diverse background in real estate.

Growing up on a farm near Riverton, Kris learned the value of hard work and collaboration from an early age.

In 2010, Kris founded Thorwin Properties. The company has since grown to manage over 2,400 apartment units across Winnipeg, with a strong emphasis on providing high-quality living spaces and top-tier resident service, earning Kris a reputation as a leader in the industry.

Outside of his professional achievements, Kris Thorkelson is a committed philanthropist, having donated $500,000 to the University of Manitoba’s Pharmacy faculty and supported various charitable causes. He enjoys golf, tennis, and travel, and cherishes spending time with his family. Kris’s career reflects a deep entrepreneurial drive and a dedication to giving back to the community.

Kris, your career spans several industries. Which of these transitions was the most challenging for you, and how did you navigate it?

The transition into real estate was definitely the most challenging. My previous business provided a level of predictability and stability that was hard to replicate in real estate. Real estate, especially multifamily investment, involves more variables—location, market conditions, and tenant satisfaction. The first few years were all about learning the ins and outs of the real estate market, understanding how to handle large properties, and figuring out how to scale effectively. But I leaned on my business experience and made sure to hire people who were experts in areas where I was still growing. Over time, it became clear that a well-managed real estate portfolio could offer the same long-term stability I had in the past, with the added benefit of creating more communities and job opportunities.

You’ve been very successful in real estate with Thorwin Properties. How do you maintain the company’s growth while staying true to your core values?

At Thorwin Properties, growth is important, but it’s not the only focus. We’ve built our reputation by providing high-quality homes and exceptional customer service. To maintain this balance, we stay focused on long-term relationships with both tenants and our team. Every new project or acquisition is evaluated not just for profitability but for how it aligns with our values of integrity, responsibility, and service. We don’t just want to grow for growth’s sake; we want to ensure we are always improving the communities we serve. It’s about creating homes where people feel proud to live, while also growing our business responsibly.

With your success in real estate, how do you approach risk? Are you more risk-averse or open to taking calculated risks?

I believe in taking calculated risks. I’m not one to jump into anything without a solid plan. Risk is part of entrepreneurship, but it needs to be managed. I always do thorough research before making any decision, and I surround myself with trusted advisors and a strong team. Real estate is inherently risky, but by understanding market trends, due diligence, and having a contingency plan, we can mitigate those risks. It’s about making informed decisions and staying adaptable, particularly in the ever-changing real estate market.

You’ve made significant contributions to causes like Agape Table and Canadian Lutheran World Relief. What drives you to give back, and what impact do you hope to create through your philanthropy?

Giving back is something I’ve always felt strongly about. I’ve been fortunate to achieve success, and I think it’s important to use that success to help others. Supporting organizations like Agape Table, which helps feed the homeless and vulnerable, or Canadian Lutheran World Relief, which aids people in crisis worldwide, is my way of paying it forward. I hope to make a real difference in people’s lives, whether that’s providing meals to those who need them or helping communities in developing countries build sustainable futures. The impact I hope to create is one of hope and opportunity for people who might not have it otherwise.

How did your education at the University of Manitoba shape your career, and are there any specific lessons or experiences that have stuck with you over the years?

My time at the University of Manitoba was incredibly formative. My psychology background gave me a strong foundation in problem-solving, communication, and understanding people’s needs. I also learned the importance of responsibility and attention to detail, while psychology helped me understand the human side of business—how to connect with people, whether it’s customers, employees, or partners. One lesson that’s stuck with me is the importance of lifelong learning. No matter how successful you become, there’s always more to learn, whether it’s about your business, the market, or the world around you.

Many entrepreneurs face setbacks along the way. Can you share a specific challenge you encountered in your career and how you overcame it?

One of the biggest setbacks I faced was when I had to close my previous business. It was a huge blow, both personally and professionally. We had built a successful business, and to see it come to an end was difficult. But instead of seeing it as a failure, I viewed it as a lesson. I took time to assess what went wrong, learned from it, and used that knowledge to pivot into real estate. It was a reminder that setbacks are part of the entrepreneurial journey, and resilience is key to moving forward.

Real estate is a competitive field. How do you differentiate Thorwin Properties from other real estate companies in Winnipeg?

We differentiate ourselves by focusing on the tenant experience. Many real estate companies focus on numbers and profitability, but we make sure our tenants feel valued. Our properties are well-maintained, and our customer service is top-notch. We also invest in community-building efforts, such as organizing local events or supporting charities that benefit the neighborhoods we operate in. By taking care of the people who live in our buildings and being active in the communities, we build trust and loyalty. It’s not just about real estate; it’s about creating a positive environment for everyone involved.

You’ve had a diverse career, now running a large real estate business. How do you stay motivated and continue to pursue new goals?

Motivation for me comes from a combination of personal growth and the desire to make an impact. I’m always looking for ways to improve myself, whether it’s through learning new skills, setting new business goals, or finding ways to give back to the community. In terms of my career, I’ve never viewed success as an endpoint—it’s a continuous journey. Whether I’m managing a new real estate acquisition or mentoring others, there’s always something new to achieve or learn. Staying motivated comes from the excitement of new challenges and the fulfillment of seeing progress in both my business and philanthropic efforts.

You’ve had great success in real estate. What do you believe is the most important factor to achieving success in this industry?

In real estate, the most important factor is a long-term vision. It’s easy to get caught up in the short-term gains, but real success comes from making strategic decisions that will pay off years down the road. That means choosing properties wisely, understanding market trends, and always thinking about the impact of your decisions on both the business and the people involved. A successful real estate portfolio isn’t built overnight—it’s about making smart, well-researched decisions that will build value over time. Persistence, patience, and discipline are key.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Thorwin Properties, and what’s next for you in both business and philanthropy?

Looking ahead, I want to continue growing Thorwin Properties in a sustainable way, ensuring that we not only increase our portfolio but continue to offer the highest quality properties and services to our residents. I’m also interested in expanding into other markets, as I believe there’s potential for Thorwin to have a broader impact. In terms of philanthropy, I want to continue supporting causes that align with my values, particularly in areas of education and social welfare. The next phase of my career will be about building on the foundation I’ve laid—creating new opportunities for others while staying true to my core principles of integrity, service, and community engagement.