In January 2026, leaders from across British Columbia gathered at Government House, where Her Honour, the Honourable Wendy Cocchia, recognized this year’s recipients of the BC Reconciliation Award. The ceremony offered a powerful reminder that reconciliation is not a single act or moment—it is an ongoing, collective commitment grounded in truth, relationship, and responsibility.
Established through a partnership between BC Achievement and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, the BC Reconciliation Award was created to recognize individuals, groups, and organizations who are advancing reconciliation in meaningful and lasting ways. From its inception, the award has sought to elevate work that acknowledges the truths of the past and actively contributes to a more equitable future.
Now in its sixth year, the award continues to reflect the many ways reconciliation takes shape across the province. The 2026 recipients—like those honoured in years prior—demonstrate that reconciliation lives in action: through community leadership, advocacy, education, and the quiet, consistent work of building trust.
“Reconciliation is about listening deeply, acting with integrity, and standing together in ways that create real and lasting change,” says BC Achievement Foundation Board Member and honorary award advisor, Cloy-e-iis, Judith Sayers. “Across British Columbia, we are seeing powerful examples of leaders who shape solutions that strengthen communities and honour cultural knowledge. The British Columbia Reconciliation Award shines a light on this work — work that transforms systems, restores trust, and opens new pathways forward.”
At its core, reconciliation requires us to listen, to confront difficult histories, to recognize ongoing impacts, and to commit to change. This work is guided by values of integrity, respect, and shared understanding, and it calls on all of us to participate in shaping a better path forward.
The BC Reconciliation Award also serves an important role beyond recognition. It creates space to share stories—stories of leadership, resilience, and innovation—that can inspire others to act. Across British Columbia, there are countless examples of reconciliation underway: partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, initiatives that centre Indigenous knowledge and language, and systems-level changes that seek to address inequities. By bringing these efforts into the light, the award helps to build momentum and encourage broader participation.
The January ceremony at Government House was both a celebration and a call to action. It honoured those who are leading the way, while also inviting reflection on the role each of us can play. Reconciliation is not complete, nor is it linear. It requires sustained effort, openness, and the willingness to learn and unlearn.
As we look ahead, the work continues—in communities, organizations, and relationships across the province. The BC Reconciliation Award stands as a reminder that leadership exists in many forms, and that by recognizing and supporting this work, we help shape a more inclusive and connected British Columbia for future generations.
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