The Indigenous Business Award – Award of Distinction
The Award of Distinction is the highest honour within the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program. It recognizes a leader whose vision, influence, and lifetime achievements have shaped—and continue to shape—Indigenous business and economic development in British Columbia.
This distinction celebrates far more than commercial success. It honours those who have strengthened the Indigenous economy across the province and set a powerful example for others to follow—whether through entrepreneurship, governance, advocacy, innovation, or community leadership. Recipients are mentors, changemakers, and pathfinders. Through integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to community, they inspire current and future generations to advance Indigenous prosperity in meaningful and lasting ways.
A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration
The Award of Distinction stands apart because it recognizes enduring influence. Honourees are celebrated for building enterprises, strengthening institutions, shaping policy, and advancing economic self-determination. Their leadership expands opportunity, reinforces Indigenous governance, and contributes to long-term community prosperity.
Their impact reaches well beyond their own organizations or initiatives. They mentor emerging leaders, open doors across sectors, and demonstrate that economic success and community well-being are inseparable.
Each recipient carries a story of vision, resilience, and responsibility. Together, they show how Indigenous leadership—in business, governance, and community development—can drive growth while reinforcing cultural strength and shared prosperity.
Past Recipients of the Award of Distinction
Since its inception, the Award of Distinction has celebrated an extraordinary group of leaders whose work spans business, governance, arts, advocacy, finance, and community development. Their contributions continue to resonate across British Columbia and beyond:
2009 – Dorothy Grant & Angelique Merasty Levac
2010 – Dolly (Watts) McRae & John Harper
2011 – Chief Clarence Louie
2012 – Chief Councillor Garry Reece
2013 – Chief Commissioner Sophie Pierre & Ruth Williams
2014 – Councillor Garry Feschuk
2015 – James Walkus
2016 – Robert Louie
2017 – Chief Gibby Jacob
2018 – Chief Gordon Planes
2019 – Paulette Flamond
2020 – Carol Anne Hilton
2021 – Ken Cameron
2022 – Chief David Jimmie
2023 – Teara Fraser
2024 – Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik)
2025 – Harold Calla
Together, these recipients reflect the diversity, strength, and vision of Indigenous leadership across sectors. Their collective legacy underscores the purpose of the Award of Distinction: to recognize those whose life’s work has advanced Indigenous prosperity while clearing the path for others to follow.
As the Indigenous Business Award program continues to evolve, the Award of Distinction remains a powerful reminder that meaningful economic progress is built on vision, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to community. We extend our sincere gratitude to each Award of Distinction recipient for leading the way—setting the standard for excellence and lighting the path for generations to come.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.