Award Year: 2024

Earl Blacklock’s goal is to make a difference in the lives of those affected by poverty, substance dependence, and traumatic life events. As the Executive Director of Island Community Counselling (ICC), Earl serves as an experienced clinician and as the agency’s chief administrative officer. With three master’s degrees and accreditation as a Canadian Certified Counsellor, Earl leads ICC’s trauma program and has created initiatives that improve access to care delivery throughout the region.

Recognizing the pressing need for more qualified counsellors, Earl expanded a practicum therapist program that provides invaluable opportunities for graduate students to gain hands-on counselling practice. Many of these practicum therapists remained with the agency, significantly expanding ICC’s counseling team from just five to 29 counsellors. His leadership helps address the shortage of trained mental health professionals while ensuring therapeutic counselling services are accessible to all who seek help. By providing prompt and comprehensive support, Earl’s dedication changes lives and inspires others to contribute to the causes of mental health treatment and advocacy.

Robin Dawes transformed the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club through personal and invaluable contributions. She played a role in securing funding, designing, and supervising the construction of a new state-of-the-art lodge facility. Robin’s establishment of a ski rental program has significantly lowered barriers to entry for the wider community. Through her efforts, funding was secured, equipment purchased, and volunteers coordinated to ensure the program’s success. Additionally, she led the ski school program which has seen substantial growth and includes hundreds of children participating each year.

Engaging in both administrative tasks and day-to-day operations Robin contributes over 500 volunteer hours annually. From mowing ski trails to sealing floors in the new lodge, her hands-on approach supports the club’s success. As a former board chair and current board member, Robin leads by example, sharing her expertise through webinars and further enriching the broader cross-country ski community. Robin Dawes’s efforts have revitalized the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, leaving a legacy that ensures future generations can enjoy the benefits of a thriving ski community.

As a grade eight student, Christopher Lee co-founded the Helping Hearts Youth Foundation. Now, two years later, Helping Hearts has grown into an ambitious youth-led non-profit, attracting over one hundred volunteers. Christopher serves as a mentor onboarding younger students who are experiencing their first service events while fostering a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Christopher mobilizes Helping Hearts’ volunteers and leads fundraising efforts which have exceeded $30,000. His team facilitates various community events and distributes back-to-school care packages to numerous elementary schools.

Additionally, Helping Hearts has provided meals in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside and is collaborating with the Vancouver School Board to establish a tutoring program for marginalized elementary students. Alongside his entirely youth-organized executive team, Christopher leads consistent and sustainable initiatives. His hands-on approach reflects his concern for all participants, promptly addressing issues and staying until the last task is completed. Christopher has ignited a culture of service within his organization, inspiring youth to engage in meaningful community service while making a difference.

Brian McConaghy’s transition from RCMP member and forensic scientist to humanitarian advocate reflects his dedication to justice and human rights. His experience in law enforcement laid the groundwork, but it was his work in Cambodia that ignited his commitment to combatting child abuse and human trafficking. In 1989, Brian founded Ratanak International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping the people of Cambodia rebuild their country torn apart by war, revolution and genocide. Under his leadership, Ratanak has become an internationally recognized model in the fight against modern slavery.

In 2017, Brian’s team built a multi-story restoration centre to provide compassion, secure shelter, and holistic trauma care for survivors on their journey to healing. Brian’s expertise has led him to speak on international human trafficking at prestigious platforms such as the Canadian Senate and advise on G7 law enforcement policy, amplifying awareness and advocacy for survivors on a global scale. More recently, the government of Cambodia invited Brian’s team to assist in building protective systems at a national level. From Canada to Cambodia, Brian’s efforts are restoring dignity and hope to those robbed of freedom while protecting the most vulnerable.

Siân Lewis believes in the power of helping individuals overcome addiction to create healthier communities in Kamloops and beyond. Since assuming the role of Executive Director of Day One Society in 2011, Siân’s leadership has transformed the organization by redefining its mission, rebranding, and expanding service offerings to better serve the community. She has cultivated a governance-focused board, driving strategic growth initiatives and fostering a culture of accountability and effectiveness.

Recognizing the need for targeted interventions, Siân spearheaded initiatives such as the “Ashes to Dust Bike Camp” and “Adventure Sundays” to support at-risk and disadvantaged youth. Her approach led to the creation of programs aiding individuals transitioning to sober lifestyles, earning contracts with Interior Health for supportive living initiatives. Siân’s advocacy extends past organizational boundaries, establishing a sobering center in Kamloops and collaborating with various community groups to challenge stigma while addressing root causes of substance use disorders. An academic background in social work, coupled with extensive experience in mental health and addiction services, youth emergency services, and community development, underpins Siân’s vision to creating systemic change.

 

Connally McDougall is the founder and creative force behind Connally Goods, an innovative clothing company at the intersection of sustainability and social justice. With a commitment to dismantling systemic oppressions, including fatphobia, sexism, and ableism, Connally infuses each design with a powerful message of inclusion and empowerment. Her journey began with a vision to challenge the status quo of the fashion industry, seeking to create a brand that champions sustainability while celebrating diversity and advocating for social change.

Connally Goods’ values are prioritized through ethically sourced materials, eco-friendly, local Vancouver production methods, and fair labour practices. Each crafted piece serves as a statement of solidarity with marginalized communities. As a designer with disabilities, Connally uses her business to amplify underrepresented voices and promote body liberation. She supports social causes such as the Pace Society Vancouver, advocating for sex workers, The Addison Fund for Paediatric Organ Transplant through Transplant Research Foundation BC, and Saucye West’s #fightforinclusivity initiative.

Marcus Mosely is renowned for his musical performances and profound impact on the cultural landscape of British Columbia. As the Artistic Director of the Marcus Mosely Ensemble, he leads with passion and vision, bringing an authentic gospel sound to audiences across the province. For more than four decades, Marcus has used his voice to entertain and educate people of all ages and backgrounds. A gifted singer, Marcus’s repertoire spans gospel, blues, and soul music, captivating audiences with his soulful performances. His annual “Songs of Freedom” celebration, now in its 12th season, has become a staple in the community, showcasing the rich history of black music and culture.

Marcus engages, encourages, and inspires communities through his ensembles, choirs, and gospel workshops. His contributions extend beyond the stage, as he serves as a public speaker, guest CBC radio presenter, and advocate for cultural awareness and understanding. Marcus received the 2020 Legacy Award for Music from the National Congress of Black Women Foundation and has received numerous accolades, including a star on Granville Street, induction into the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame, and nominations for Juno Awards.

Marcus was named the 2024 Mitchell Award recipient. Named in honour of Keith Mitchell QC, the Mitchell Award recognizes an individual who, through his or her work and volunteer activities, has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to elevating the community in which they live, and those who serve it. The recipient has a unique and selfless leadership style that encourages and inspires the full participation of those he or she leads. Keith Mitchell served as the BC Achievement Foundation’s Founding Chair and guiding light for 13 years. A leader by example and a mentor at heart, Keith brought clarity to the role of the Foundation in its mission to celebrate excellence in British Columbia.

Coralie Nairn’s 35-year tenure with Search and Rescue has been defined by her role in advancing the organization to become one of BC’s leading Search and Rescue groups. Starting as a Ground Search Team Member with Central Okanagan Search and Rescue, Coralie’s journey eventually led her to become a Senior Search Manager at Vernon Search and Rescue (VSAR) and the team’s Safety Officer and Media Liaison. Her extensive training in various rescue techniques has earned her recognition as a respected leader and mentor within the Search and Rescue community.

As a Level II Search and Rescue Manager, Coralie has overseen numerous large-scale operations. Her 11 years of experience with the Canadian Civil Air Search and Rescue Association and maintenance as a Search and Rescue Master with the Canadian Military further attest to her commitment and expertise in the field. In addition to her role at VSAR, Coralie is a program instructor for the Justice Institute of British Columbia and volunteers for the Adventure Smart Program. Through this initiative, she has trained over 1000 children and 500 adults, emphasizing the importance of safety during outdoor exploration.

Alison O’Toole stands as a pillar in the Prince Rupert arts community. A teacher for School District 52 since 1993, Alison’s commitment to education and the arts earned her the prestigious title of Drama Teacher of the Year by the BC Drama Educators Association. Alison has directed over 30 high school musicals and major theatrical productions, advocating for student recognition, and leading the charge to make these annual performances count for school credits.

Alison’s passion for theatre extends to the broader community, where she directs productions that bring people together and foster a sense of belonging. As the Drama Representative for the region and a board member of the Lester Centre of the Arts, she mentors aspiring artists and champions the importance of the performing arts. Alison’s legacy is measured in the countless students she has educated and in the many who have pursued careers in the arts, inspired by her guidance and mentorship.

Jazz Pabla, former Chief Information Officer & Director of Information Services for the City of Kelowna, leverages technology to improve citizens’ lives and inspire innovation nationwide. Recognized for pioneering AI and cloud solutions, Jazz’s leadership has enhanced efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in city services. Under Jazz’s guidance, his team developed ground-breaking projects and solutions for snow removal optimization and smart waste management systems. He also drove initiatives addressing homelessness, including a real-time Outdoor Sheltering Dashboard, and created a chatbot for citizen queries.

During the recent wildfires, Jazz led a team that deployed drones and satellite technology to detect hotspots and assess damage, facilitating swift response efforts. Jazz and his team also developed a digital twin called Model City, empowering transparent and informed decision-making. Jazz’s vision for AI-driven solutions extends to housing crises, with plans to expedite building permits. As an active member of Municipal Information Systems Association of BC, Jazz shares expertise and drives advancements, positioning Kelowna as a trailblazer in municipal technology adoption.