Chief Gordon Planes (Hya-quatcha) of the T’Sou-ke Nation is the 2021 recipient of the BC Achievement Foundation’s Indigenous Business Award for Lifetime Achievement. A visionary leader, Chief Planes has guided his community with a focus on autonomy, food security, cultural renaissance, and economic development.
For over two decades, he has led the Nation in projects that blend traditional teachings with innovation. Under his leadership, the T’Sou-ke Nation has become internationally recognized for its solar power initiatives, food sovereignty efforts, and cultural revitalization. His long-term vision—a 100-year plan for community resilience—prioritizes sustainability over personal profit.
The T’Sou-ke Nation now operates wasabi and oyster farms, a solar micro-grid, and hosts global visitors eager to learn from their success. Chief Planes has also forged strong partnerships in renewable energy and Indigenous education.
His work continues to inspire, grounded in respect for the land and a clear purpose: “It’s all about future generations.”
