Award Year: 2004

As president in 2003 of the Penticton and District Multi-Cultural Society Lakhvinder Jhaj was instrumental in the declaration of National Multicultural Week and spearheaded the 2003 Multicultural Festival in Penticton. Lakhvinder piloted a forum entitled “Clash of Cultures” addressing inter-generational conflict within Indo-Canadian families and, as well, was involved in the Harvest Outreach Program.

Steve Stewart has given his time and skills to Midway and surrounding regions for close to 30 years. His efforts have influenced sports, recreation, arts, culture and community advocacy. Steve is Chair of the Regional Recreation Board, and the Public Library Board and is Vice-President of the Kettle River Museum Society.

As Chair of the Military Family Resource Centre Board of Directors, Helen Bates drives the continual development of support programs and services offered to members of the military family community in Victoria.

For over 40 years Dr. Anthony Kenyon has provided first-rate medical services to Fort Nelson. He helped establish the first Emergency Medical Response team in the region, increasing remote survival rates. Through scholarships, instruction and residency training Dr. Kenyon works to develop and stabilize the northern medical system.

For over 35 years Carol Walmsley has volunteered for many valuable Sparwood organizations including as one of the founders of the Sparwood Food Bank. On the Board of the local Health Co-op, Carol also supports patients and families within the local Hospice and Cancer Society, as well as being a strong contributor to an array of school programs.

Dr. Battersby has an exemplary record of civic leadership for more than three decades, playing a role in the development and implementation of strategies that have guided Revelstoke’s progress in becoming a sustainable, thriving community.

As a renowned piper and bandleader for over 25 years, Jack Lee is sought after as a performer, lecturer and teacher throughout the world. As a valuable ambassador for Surrey and BC, Jack’s Pipe bands and individual students have won numerous awards and accolades.

Lucille Bell is an exceptional role model for her community of Old Massett not only as a thriving small business owner but also through her work as a Heritage Resource Officer where she has led many of initiatives to increase awareness of her culture including spearheading the repatriation of Haida Gwaii remains.

Iain MacKay has been a leader and member of the BC Cancer Foundation during its busiest time in its history. With Iain’s strong leadership, the Foundation has seen a dramatic increase in funds available for cancer research and resources for patients throughout Vancouver and BC.

Beatrice Blackford is a talented musician who has selflessly shared her music with patients at Vancouver Hospital, Brock House Senior Care Centre, St. Vincent’s Hospital and UBC Hospital for over 30 years.