The Indigenous Business Award of Distinction designation: Inspired leadership

Photo: Chief David Jimmie, Recipient, 2022 IBA Award of Distinction

Indigenous entrepreneurs who receive the IBA program’s award of distinction designation leave an indelible mark on their respective communities and contribute significantly to the broader province and its economic landscape. 

“Hard work is what creates success. We need to teach our young people to understand that hard work will get you to where you want to be.  Achievements are not the result of one person or work; they are the collective result of people working together. Behind every person being recognized for their achievements is a team”. 

Chief David Jimmie, Recipient, 2022 IBA Award of Distinction 

The IBA Award of Distinction recognizes outstanding achievement in Indigenous entrepreneurship in BC. The honour is presented to an individual who, over their career, has made a significant difference in the Indigenous business community through their entrepreneurial endeavours and, in doing so, serves as a leader, role model, mentor and inspiration. The individual may be an innovator in their business activities, a successful entrepreneur, or an individual who has been instrumental in supporting or creating Indigenous business activities in the province.  

Candidates are appointed by the BC Achievement board of directors through consultation received from community input, jury feedback and online nominations. The 2023 Award of Distinction recipient will be named later this month, alongside the announcement presenting the seven awardees of the Indigenous Business Award in their various categories. These remarkable individuals embody resilience, innovation, and a deep connection to their cultural heritage, often infusing traditional wisdom into modern business practices.  

Beyond their economic contributions, these entrepreneurs foster social empowerment by creating job opportunities, promoting skills development, and investing in community projects. The impact they have is far-reaching, extending beyond business to the cultural revitalization and self-determination of Indigenous peoples.  

BC Achievement is honoured to salute the Award of Distinction alumni on the 15th anniversary of the IBA program and thank them for their leadership:   

  • 2022 Chief David Jimmie 
  • 2021 Ken Cameron 
  • 2020 Carol Anne Hilton  
  • 2019 Paulette Flamond  
  • 2018 Chief Gordon Planes  
  • 2017 Chief Gibby Jacob
  • 2016 Chief Robert Louie
  • 2015 James Walkus
  • 2014 Councillor Garry Feschuk
  • 2013 Chief Commissioner Sophie Pierre & Ruth Williams
  • 2012 Chief Garry Reece
  • 2011 Chief Councillor Louie
  • 2010 Dolly (Watts) McRae & John Harper
  • 2009 Dorothy Grant & Angelique Merasty Levac

The IBA program honours excellence and focuses on the successes of Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs. 

Join hosts Geena Jackson and Chief David Jimmie on November 1 for the 15th annual IBA Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and celebrate the 2023 Award of Distinction designate and the deserving awardees from around the province! 

Tickets for the 2023 IBA Gala can be purchased at bcachievement.com

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

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