Month: December 2025

Photo: BC Reconciliation Award Alumni

At BC Achievement, we have the privilege of witnessing excellence in its many forms—artistic mastery, entrepreneurial vision, cultural leadership, community service, and innovation that shapes the future of British Columbia. But one of the most extraordinary parts of this work isn’t just the moment of recognition. It’s what happens afterward. 

Again and again, alumni from across all our programs have shared how receiving a BC Achievement Award became a catalyst in their journey. They tell us about the exhibitions that followed, the collaborations that blossomed, the opportunities that opened, and the confidence that deepened as they stepped more fully into their role as leaders within their disciplines. Recognition doesn’t just celebrate excellence—it propels it. 

This is the heart of our mission. Yes, we strive to Recognize Remarkable. But just as importantly, we work to build a thriving, interconnected community—one where past recipients continue to lift one another up and inspire the next generation. 

Across years and programs, alumni consistently pay it forward in ways that strengthen BC’s cultural, social and economic fabric. They do this by: 

• Mentoring emerging artists and entrepreneurs, sharing hard-won lessons and nurturing the creative courage of others. 

• Presenting awards, offering encouragement at pivotal moments in someone else’s story. 

• Serving on juries, bringing their expertise, integrity, and lived experience to the selection of new cohorts. 

• Returning to support events and programs, helping shape the recognition ecosystem that once supported them. 

• Sharing opportunities and networks, ensuring that excellence circulates and that more voices are elevated. 

This generous spirit—this willingness to extend a hand, to open a door, to uplift someone else—is what makes the BC Achievement community truly remarkable. It is also what ensures that the impact of recognition does not end when the ceremony lights dim, but continues to grow through mentorship, collaboration, and shared leadership. 

Photo: Riley McFerrin, 2023 Applied Art + Design Award Alumnus (left), Mario Pao, 2025 Applied Art + Design Award Recipient, Mario Pao (right)

To our alumni community: thank you. Thank you for embodying excellence not only in your work, but in your generosity. Thank you for uplifting your peers, for inspiring future generations, and for contributing to a province where the pursuit of excellence is supported, celebrated, and shared. 

Your commitment to paying it forward shapes the future of British Columbia. We are honoured to celebrate you, and even more honoured to witness the incredible ways you continue to make a difference. 

Together, we build a legacy of excellence. Together, we #RecognizeRemarkable. 

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

Photo: 2025 Community Award Volunteers

As the festive season approaches, many of us begin to reflect on the people and places that give our lives meaning. At BC Achievement, we are reminded daily that community is not limited by geography or tradition—it is built through connection, shared purpose, and the simple act of showing up for one another. Community can be your extended family, your neighbourhood, the people in your exercise class, your fellow volunteers, or the close friends who have become your chosen family. However, you define it, community shapes us, strengthens us, and inspires us. 

Some communities are built intentionally. Think of the weekly fitness class where laughter and encouragement become just as important as movement. Others grow from shared values: the volunteers who rise early to set up or offer a warm smile that reminds someone why they showed up in the first place. 

Photo: 2025 Community Award recipient, Chantelle Krish (far right)

Some communities are rooted in heritage and tradition. Families—both biological and blended—carry stories forward, weaving old wisdom with new memories. For many, this season is a chance to return to those roots, reconnect, and honour the people who shaped them.  

And then there are the communities we step into when the world needs us. The neighbours who shovel one another’s driveways, deliver soup during a difficult week, or gather together during moments of crisis or celebration. These acts, small and spontaneous, reflect the true spirit of the season: generosity without expectation, kindness without condition. 

What unites all these forms of community is the way they help us see beyond ourselves. They open our hearts, broaden our perspectives, and remind us that our lives are intertwined with others in meaningful ways. In a time of year that invites gratitude and reflection, our communities show us where we find joy, purpose, and connection. 

As we look ahead to the celebrations and gatherings of the coming weeks, may we take a moment to appreciate the many communities we belong to—and the ways they enrich our lives. This festive season, let’s find inspiration in the people who surround us, uplift us, and walk beside us. Because when we recognize the value of community, we strengthen it and create more connected future for all. 

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

Photo: 2025 AAD awardee, Mario Pao and friends

Last month, BC Achievement had the privilege of hosting three dazzling award ceremonies, each one honouring a distinct and inspiring facet of British Columbia’s creative and entrepreneurial landscape. From powerful stories of Indigenous businesses to the talent of First Nations artists, to the innovation of applied art and design practitioners, these celebrations reminded us once again of the extraordinary talent and leadership that thrive across the province. 

The season began with the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala, where entrepreneurs, and business leaders were recognized for building opportunities rooted in hard work, vision and cultural values. The evening was filled with pride and purpose as recipients shared how their work uplifts communities, generates sustainability, and shapes future prosperity for people across BC. 

Photo: 2025 IBA Gala hosts, Tsetasiya Geena Jackson (left) and Kúkwpi7 (Chief) Willie Sayers (right)

We then gathered for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art, (FNA) a ceremony that honoured accomplished artists and emerging talents whose creative brilliance keeps cultural practices alive. The event showcased powerful storytelling in the form of short films on each awardee, moving remarks and an exhibition of breathtaking artistry—carving, painting metalwork and jewellery. It was a powerful reminder of art’s enduring role in storytelling, teaching, and connection. 

Photo: Klatle-bhi, 2023 FNA awardee (left), Rebecca Baker-Grenier, 2025 FNA awardee (center), Lisa Hageman Yahgujaanas, 2010 FNA awardee (right)

Rounding out the month was the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design, (AAD) where innovators in craft, design, and functional art were recognized for pushing boundaries and enriching the creative fabric of British Columbia. From textiles to ceramics to contemporary design, the awardees demonstrated how craft and innovation intersect to shape the objects and environments of our everyday lives. The short films, premiered at the event, highlighted the personal journeys of the awardees. 

These celebrations shine brightly because of the many hands and hearts that make them possible. 

To our exceptional suppliers: thank you for bringing each ceremony to life with artistry, professionalism, and care. From stunning staging and catering to film production and technical support, your work ensures that every awardee feels honoured in a meaningful and memorable way. 

To our generous sponsors: your commitment to elevating excellence strengthens the award programs. Your support amplifies the voices of artists, entrepreneurs, and designers whose contributions enrich British Columbia’s cultural and economic landscape. 

To our board leadership: your vision and stewardship guide these programs with integrity and purpose. Your dedication ensures that recognition remains a powerful catalyst for community, creativity, and positive change. 

Most importantly, to our nominators: thank you. You are the heart of every awards cycle. Your belief in the people around you—and your willingness to put their names forward—makes recognition possible. You ensure that excellence does not go unnoticed. 

As we reflect on a remarkable month of celebration, we extend our deepest gratitude. Together, we continue to #RecognizeRemarkable across British Columbia.  

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