Photo: Chief David Jimmie & Geena Jackson, 2023 IBA Co-Director of Ceremonies
For a second year, Geena Jackson will be serving as Director of Ceremonies (DC) having enchanted Gala-goers last year with her effervescent hosting and empowerment of Indigenous enterpreneurship. Joining Geena on stage will be Chief David Jimmie, the 2022 Indigenous Business Award of Distinction recipient.
Geena Jackson
Geena Jackson is a proud member of the shíshálh Nation (Sechelt) and a passionate advocate for Indigenous Rights and self-determination. With a degree in Broadcast Journalism and Communications, Geena works tirelessly on her vision to support First Nation individuals ready to take a chance on Entrepreneurship and access life changing opportunities. Amongst her many roles, Geena is the creator and executive producer of Bears’ Lair, a reality show that follows the journeys of Indigenous entrepreneurs as they pitch their plans to ‘The Bears’ – a panel of Indigenous business moguls – in hopes of winning a cash prize.
Chief David Jimmie
Squiala Chief David Jimmie of Chilliwack was honoured with the Indigenous Business Award of Distinction designation last year, for his extraordinary contributions to Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs. In addition to serving as Chief and CEO of Squiala First Nation, David is President of the Stó:lō Nation Chiefs Council, President of Ts’elxweyéqw Tribe Management Limited, chair of Western Indigenous Pipeline Group, president of the Eagle Landing Limited Partnership, and owner of DJimmie Construction. A collaborative leader, Chief David Jimmie lends his expertise to establish growth opportunities while serving his community and the organizations which sustain it.
These changemakers lead by example, and they will be leading us all in celebration as co-Directors of Ceremonies for the 15th annual Indigenous Business Award Gala. Taking place at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver at 5:30 PM on November 1st, this dinner and award ceremony promise a night of illumination and inspiration.
With a theme of Building Community, this year’s IBA Gala dinner will honour seven exceptional Indigenous businesses which have exemplified innovation, tenacity, and excellence in their respective fields. In addition, the 2023 Award of Distinction designate will be celebrated! Recipients are set to be announced next month at bcachievement.com and shared across all of our social media channels.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable evening by securing your tickets at bcachievement.com. Let’s come together and celebrate Indigenous business excellence. #shinethelightbc.
The IBA program is presented by the BC Achievement Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. It is generously supported by:
Enbridge, Vancity, Teck Resources Limited, TD Bank Group, Ovintiv Canada, New Relationship Trust, BC Hydro, BC Transit, Seaspan, West Fraser, CN, Simpcw Resources Group, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Fortis BC, KPMG, Pacific Blue Cross
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.