Day: March 3, 2026

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to pause and recognize the women whose leadership strengthens British Columbia in lasting, tangible ways. Across sectors and communities, women are shaping the cultural, social and economic fabric of this province — often without seeking recognition. 

Through BC Achievement Foundation programming we have had the honour of celebrating remarkable women over the past 23 years, whose contributions reflect integrity, vision and sustained commitment. 

In First Nations art, Sgaanjaad Sherri Dick was recognized for her excellence in Haida weaving and regalia creation, revitalizing and advancing traditional knowledge through meticulous craftsmanship. Her work ensures that Haida design, technique and story are preserved, practiced and lived.  

Rachelle Chinnery, recipient of the Applied Art + Design award, was honoured for her thoughtful and innovative design practice that bridges functionality and aesthetics. Her ceramics are made to complement and enhance a lifestyle that is contemplative and appreciative of a natural pristine environment. 

Dr. Danièle Behn Smith received the BC Reconciliation Award for her leadership in advancing Indigenous relations within healthcare, creating meaningful partnerships grounded in respect and accountability. Her work has focused on systemic change, fostering relationships and collaborations to identify and eliminate racism in programs and services, while also promoting increased Indigenous cultural knowledge. 

Community leadership often unfolds quietly, but its impact is profound. Robin Dawes, a Community Award recipient, transformed the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club through personal and invaluable contributions. Her dedication strengthened programming, expanded participation and revitalized a community institution.  

And guiding the work of BC Achievement itself is Dr. Judith Sayers, Cloy-e-iis, a respected leader and member of the BC Achievement’s Board. Her lifelong commitment to Indigenous governance, economic development and the advancement of rights continues to shape conversations across the province. Her example underscores that leadership is about upholding responsibility. 

What connects these women is a shared commitment to strengthening community, culture and opportunity. They lead because there is work to be done. They create because continuity matters. They build because future generations are watching. 

International Women’s Day reminds us that progress is carried forward by individuals willing to step up — and stay engaged. Recognition does not define their impact, but it ensures that excellence is visible. It tells a broader story about what leadership can look like: collaborative, principled, creative and enduring. 

Today, we honour the remarkable women recognized through BC Achievement’s programs and the countless others whose contributions continue every day. 

When women lead, communities thrive. And when we take the time to recognize that leadership, we strengthen our collective future. 

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

The 2026 award nominations are now officially closed. 

To everyone who took the time to submit a nomination — thank you. 

At BC Achievement, our work begins with you. Our programs exist because individuals across the province choose to recognize excellence and bring forward the names, stories and accomplishments of those shaping British Columbia in meaningful ways. Recognition is not possible without nominators. It is a partnership — and an essential one. 

Whether you nominated a colleague, a community leader, a business owner, an artist, or put your own name forward, your effort matters. Recognizing excellence requires thoughtfulness. It takes care to gather references, stories and details that reflect the true scope of someone’s contribution. It takes courage to step into recognition. And it takes belief — belief that this work deserves to be seen. 

Thank you for that belief. 

Each year, your nominations remind us that extraordinary work is happening in every corner of the province — often quietly, often without expectation of acknowledgement. People are strengthening communities through service and leadership. They are advancing reconciliation. They are creating powerful First Nations art that holds history, story and identity. They are shaping applied art + design that blends beauty with purpose. They are building Indigenous businesses that generate opportunity, prosperity and self-determination. 

These contributions deserve to be honoured — and they are only visible to us because you take the time to shine a light on them. 

Most recipients do not seek recognition. They are focused on the work itself: the community meeting, the carved mask, the design studio, the storefront, the boardroom, the long road of advocacy. They show up because it matters. 

Recognition does not change the heart of that work. But it does something important. It tells a broader story about who we are and what we value in this province. Awards are not about elevating one person above others; they are about lifting up examples that inspire us all and reflect the strength of our collective communities. 

If you missed the 2026 deadline, you can participate in next year’s program. Nominations for the 2027 award programs are open year-round. There is no need to wait for a formal call. When you see excellence — when you witness impact — when you encounter someone whose work strengthens British Columbia in meaningful ways — nominate them. Or consider putting your own name forward. 

Too often, remarkable contributions go unrecognized simply because no one took the step to submit a nomination. 

To every 2026 nominator: thank you. Your time, attention and commitment to recognition are fundamental to the work we undertake together. Because of you, those advancing reconciliation, leading in art, design and business, and strengthening communities across BC will be seen and celebrated. 

We look forward to sharing the 2026 award recipients in the months ahead — and to continuing this important work with you in 2027. 

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