Daphne Roubini believes in magic. She’s seen it enough times to understand that there is something in her beloved ukulele that has the power to transform a life. And not just her own.

“It’s more than just people coming out of their shells,” she insists. “People turn up to their first class feeling shy and nervous, sitting by themselves. Before I know it they’re laughing with new friends. Soon they’re inviting people to their house and sending me videos of themselves singing and playing. Nothing gives me more pride than that. It brings tears to my eyes.”

It’s understandable why the London-born Roubini gets emotional when she starts talking ukulele. She’s turned her love for the instrument into a thriving business and Vancouver success story: Ruby’s Ukes.