FAQ 2025

What Does Westcoast German News do?

Westcoast German News: A Comprehensive Look at Our Focus Areas in 2025

Since its inception in 2007, Westcoast German News has been a vital source of information for the German community in Vancouver and beyond. Over the years, we have significantly broadened our scope to include extensive coverage across Canada, Europe, and beyond, providing a platform for dialogue and connection. As we enter 2025, our reporting continues to focus on several key areas that reflect our commitment to serving our community and fostering a deeper understanding of the global landscape.

1. Wink and Communication

In 2025, we continue to emphasize the importance of effective communication and the art of the wink in fostering connections. Whether through written articles or storytelling, we highlight the nuances of interaction within cultural contexts, enhancing the way our audience engages with both local and international issues.

2. Trade Fairs

Trade fairs remain a cornerstone of our reporting, particularly events like the Hannover Messe, where innovation meets industry. We provide insights into the latest trends, technologies, and collaborations that emerge from these gatherings, promoting business connections between Canada and Germany.

3. Travel & Tourism

In an ever-globalizing world, travel and tourism are key areas of interest. Our reports cover emerging destinations, travel tips, and cultural experiences, particularly focused on German-speaking countries, enriching the travel experience for our audience.

4. Arts & Culture

The vibrant tapestry of arts and culture in Canada and Europe is a continual source of inspiration for our reporting. From exhibitions and performances to local cultural festivals, we celebrate the contributions of the German-speaking community and the creative synergy between nations.

5. Community Events

Local and international events serve as a nexus for community engagement. We report on festivals, workshops, and gatherings that promote cultural exchange, networking opportunities, and growth, ensuring our readers are informed and involved.

6. Networking and AI

As technology evolves, so does the landscape of networking. Our coverage includes the role of AI in facilitating connections, improving communication, and shaping the future of business practices, providing our audience with the tools and insights they need to thrive.

7. German Charities, Churches, and Non-Profits

The spirit of generosity within the German-speaking community is reflected in our reporting on charities, churches, and non-profits. We highlight initiatives that make a difference locally and globally, showcasing the positive impact of these organizations.

8. Local Updates: Austria, Switzerland, and the EU

We maintain a keen focus on local updates from Austria, Switzerland, and the European Union. By providing timely news and insights, we keep our audience connected with events and developments thataffect our community.

9. Canada-Germany Connections

One of our primary missions is to illustrate the connection between Canada and Germany. We delve into the thousands of collaborative projects, from business partnerships to cultural exchanges, reinforcing the ties that unite our two nations.

10. Managing the Virtual Saarland Office in Vancouver

With the increasing shift toward digital platforms, our role in managing the Virtual Saarland Office in Vancouver allows us to bridge the gap between cultures and foster communication, creating opportunities for collaboration and engagement.

11. Advertising, Sales, and Promotions

As a media outlet, our efforts extend to advertising, sales, and promotions. We believe in supporting local businesses while also providing a space for larger brands to connect with our audience in meaningful ways.

12. Creative Writing and Presentations

At Westcoast German News, we celebrate the power of words. Our commitment to creative and non-fiction writing allows us to bring stories to life, while our presentations strive to entertain and enlighten, often leaving our audience with a smile.

Conclusion

In 2025, Westcoast German News remains dedicated to enriching the lives of our readers through diverse and compelling content. Our focus areas are designed to highlight the vibrancy of the German-speaking community while fostering a greater understanding of our interconnected world. We invite you to join us as we continue to explore, report, and connect, ensuring that our community stays informed and engaged with the issues that matter most.

Who Founded the Blog and When?

Introducing Elke Porter: Founder of Westcoast German Media

Elke Porter is the visionary founder of the popular blog that has evolved significantly since its inception in 2007. Originally launched as German Voices Vancouver, the blog has undergone several transformations, first becoming Westcoast German News and now proudly operating as Westcoast German Media. This evolution reflects Elke's commitment to broadening the scope of her work and enhancing the way the German-speaking community connects with each other and the larger world.

Based in Vancouver, Elke has dedicated herself to fostering dialogue and delivering relevant news and insights that resonate with the German-speaking population in Canada and beyond. In addition to her work with Westcoast German Media, she also contributes articles for the WBN News Website, showcasing her passion for creative expression and communication.

Elke is accessible to her audience and encourages interaction. You can reach her through phone, text, or WhatsApp at +1 604 828 8788. As she continues to lead Westcoast German Media, Elke remains focused on promoting cultural exchange, community engagement, and informative reporting. Her journey has transformed a local blog into a dynamic platform that celebrates and connects the rich tapestry of the German-speaking community in Vancouver and across the globe.

What is WINK?

Introducing the Westcoast International Networking Klub (WINK)

The Westcoast International Networking Klub (WINK) is a vibrant community dedicated to fostering connections among individuals and businesses engaged in international activities. WINK organizes monthly virtual meetings that feature a diverse array of speakers who address a wide range of international topics, making these gatherings valuable for anyone interested in global networking and collaboration.

On January 29, 2025, at 10 AM (Wednesday morning), WINK invites members to join an engaging talk focused on international travel tips and cross-cultural communication strategies. This event, hosted via Zoom, promises to provide valuable insights for navigating the complexities of travel and connecting meaningfully with individuals from different cultures.

While this meeting is exclusive to members, guests are welcome to attend one time without the need for membership. To join WINK, the membership fees are $33 per year for students, $133 per year for entrepreneurs, and $270 per year for corporations. We look forward to connecting with both new and returning members at this exciting event!

What Kind of Advertising Opportunities Does your Blog offer?

Advertising Opportunities with Westcoast German Media

Westcoast German Media provides a range of advertising options to help businesses reach our engaged audience effectively. Here’s a comprehensive list of the available opportunities:

Business Directory Listing - Join our business directory for just $50 a year to gain visibility within a targeted community.
Sidebar Advertising - Promote your brand with a sidebar ad for $50 a month, ensuring your business is frequently seen by our readers.
Event Promotion - Share your upcoming event for $50. In some cases, we may collaborate in exchange for free tickets to your event, enhancing your promotional reach.
Annual Homepage Sidebar Ad - Enjoy a prominent sidebar ad on our homepage for $500 for the whole year, maximizing your exposure to our audience.
Media Promotion Package - Take advantage of our media promotion package for $997, including various promotional activities tailored to elevate your brand.
Weekly Mentions Package - For $2500, this package offers weekly mentions throughout the rest of 2025, ensuring consistent visibility.
Coveted Banner Ad - If you’re willing to invest $2500, secure the coveted banner ad placement at the top of our homepage, guaranteeing prime visibility for your brand.

For more details on any of these advertising opportunities, please contact me directly at +1 604 828 8788. Let’s collaborate to effectively promote your business!

What has Elke done for the German Community in Vancouver up to now?

Elke Porter’s Contributions to the German Community in Vancouver

Elke Porter has made significant contributions to the German community in Vancouver over the years, reflecting her dedication and passion for fostering connections and cultural exchange. Here are some of her key initiatives and roles:

Early Involvement: Growing up, Elke attended the Surrey German School and the fully German Bethel Baptist Church, which laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to the community.
International Experience: After moving to Sydney, Australia, she worked at the Johannes Gutenberg German School, gaining valuable insights into educational practices and community engagement.
Community Organization: Upon returning to Vancouver and starting her family, Elke took the initiative to organize German playgroups, helping to create a welcoming environment for families in the community. She also played a pivotal role in the Lost Lagoon Lantern Festival, enhancing cultural celebrations.
Congress Participation: She attended the German Canadian Congress in 2001, engaging in discussions that affect the German-speaking community in Canada.
Newsletter Founder: Elke launched the first German Voices Vancouver Newsletter in 2007, which served as a platform for sharing news and events within the community. When associations with singing emerged, she rebranded the blog to Westcoast German News, broadening its focus.
Business Association: She has served as secretary for the German Canadian Business Association (GCBA) for over ten years (2014 to 2024), fostering connections among local businesses and promoting economic collaboration.
Education and Events: Elke has taught at the Westside German School, contributing to the education of the next generation. She also helped run the German Table & Entertainment at the European Festival, showcasing German culture to a wider audience.
Editorial Contributions: As the editor of the Swiss Herald newsletter, she amplified Swiss community voices and events for 3 years.
Cultural Groups: She co-founded the Deutsche Kindergruppe (St. Mark's Church playgroup) alongside Kecia Boecking, building a supportive community for families.
Authorship: Elke has authored three main books and several smaller handbooks, sharing her knowledge and insights with the broader community.

Through these initiatives, Elke Porter has significantly enriched the German community in Vancouver, fostering cultural connections, education, and collaboration. Her unwavering commitment continues to inspire others and strengthen the bonds within the community.

Regenerate

What is the WBN (World Business Network) News Platform?

What is WBN News?

World Business Network News Desk (WBN News) is a dynamic platform dedicated to covering a wide range of topics relevant to the business community. Elke Porter writes for two specific editions of WBN News: The German Canadian Desk and the Kitsilano Edition.

The German Canadian Desk focuses on issues, trends, and stories that resonate with the German-speaking community in Canada. It serves as a vital resource for both individuals and businesses looking to stay informed about developments that impact their sector and their cultural ties.
The Kitsilano Edition provides localized news and insights pertinent to the Kitsilano area of Vancouver. This edition aims to connect residents and businesses with the latest happenings, opportunities, and resources available within the community.

Through her contributions to WBN News, Elke is committed to enhancing awareness and fostering connections within these diverse communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and represented in the media landscape.