Kathleen Strut, a resident of Prince George, is celebrating an incredible win after her name was drawn in a Vancouver Island-based raffle for tickets to Taylor Swift’s Vancouver Eras Tour.
The raffle, organized by the Lake Trail Community Education Society (LTCES) in Courtenay, raised an impressive $26,657 through ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships. The funds will support vital community programs in the Lake Trail neighborhood, focused on building connections and food security.
Strut entered the raffle with her family in mind. Her partner, Chris, and their 10-year-old daughter, Layla, are both Taylor Swift fans, and Kathleen knew this could be a life-changing opportunity.
“My partner has been trying for two years to get tickets, and I thought this would be a great bonding experience for him and Layla, as it would also be her first major concert. I never win these kinds of things, but I figured even if I didn’t win, the money was going to a great cause,” said Strut.
When her name was announced during the live draw, Strut couldn’t believe it.
“At first, I thought the message my friend sent me was just a funny video. When I clicked the link and heard my name, I had to replay it three times because I was in shock! I started buzzing and called my partner right away—he’s still in shock. Once we got everything situated, I told Layla. Her mouth dropped open, she squealed, and then asked, ‘What am I going to wear?!’”
The event’s organizer, a second-year University of Victoria student Sophia Vaillant, donated the extra tickets. A Comox native and Lake Trail Community Education Society volunteer, Vaillant shared her excitement about attending the concert alongside fellow Swifties.
“I’m so excited to go with other Swifties! But it is bitter sweet. So many people supported this wild idea. I just wish I had more tickets so I could take everyone!” she said.
Anna Rambow, Executive Director of LTCES, expressed her gratitude for the community support.
“We are beyond grateful to everyone who participated, donated, and supported this fundraiser. The funds raised will go directly toward our programs that build community and food security. This event has shown how generosity can create lasting impacts,” said Rambow.
The raffle and accompanying Friendship Bracelet-Making Party brought Taylor Swift fans together from across British Columbia to celebrate their shared love for music and community.
For Strut and her family, the magic of this win will create memories they’ll treasure forever.
