Award Category: Community Award

“Ellen Woodsworth’s many achievements reflect her decades-long dedication to public service and advocacy of women’s issues, peace, poverty reduction, seniors and LGBTQI2S rights. Founder of Women Transforming Cities International Society and a two-term Vancouver city councillor, Ellen has served on numerous boards, committees and task forces. An urban consultant and speaker using an intersectional lens, she is a remarkable force for justice, inclusion and equality, Ellen advocates to find common ground for progressive change that improves the quality of life for people and their communities”.

Ellen Woodsworth was named the 2019 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.

Kevin Albers is known for his remarkable contributions towards affordable housing for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people across the province. As CEO of M’akola Group of Societies, BC’s largest Indigenous affordable housing provider and developer, Kevin has dedicated 20 years to stewarding the organization into a powerful force for change. A dedicated leader, Kevin’s creative mentality and depth of knowledge have transformed many lives and communities.

Joyce Babula has volunteered her time and energy to her Gabriola Island home for more than 40 years. The Gabriola Island Community Hall is at the very heart of island life and, as President, Joyce has dedicated countless hours to fundraising and event planning to ensure the hall is well maintained – spearheading the Annual Salmon Barbecue, which is the highlight of the island’s summer activities. She played a role in the development of the cooperative preschool on Gabriola and, after working as a preschool teacher in Nanaimo, went on to become a teacher in the school system as a special education and Kindergarten teacher. Involved in many of Gabriola Island’s initiatives, Joyce is a consummate volunteer and community-builder.

Lolly Bennett has a long history of volunteer service – her focus has been dedicated to serving the Vancouver Chapter of the National Congress of Black Women Foundation in her roles as a volunteer, Board Member and Chair. Her efforts have included contributions to planning and organizing youth and school programs, annual community event planning, and upholding the mission and vision of the foundation. In 2011, Lolly was also instrumental, within the committee, in acquiring a permanent community space for the Chapter in Burnaby. A natural and compassionate leader, Lolly serves as an inspiration to many.

Sukhi Brar’s many achievements are a reflection of her dedication and perseverance. As president of the University of the Fraser Valley Student Union Society, Sukhi led the first all-female executive team to govern and serve their 9,000 members. In this role, she assisted with launching services like the Gender Equality Centre, PrideUFV, and a full-service Food Bank operation. Sukhi also developed the 2017-2020 UFVSUS Seeking Reconciliation Strategic Plan and co-developed the school’s ‘Prevention, Education, and Response to Sexualized Violence’ policy which was adopted by the Board of Governors last year. Currently, Sukhi serves as a director for two local non-profit boards.

Margo Dent had a goal to transform resources and support for the LGBTQIA+ community in the sea-to-sky corridor. Through her skilled and inspired leadership, Safe ‘n Sound Squamish was founded to provide care, education, and resources for LGBTQIA+ folks and their families. Margo also serves as Chair of the Squamish Savings Partner Board, investing funds into the community through the bank’s shared success program and legacy funds. With genuine care and compassion, Margo has spent 30 years serving as a special care foster parent, creating a safe and loving home environment for children with developmental delays, physical challenges, medical complications and emotional trauma.

Chris Gadsden is a passionate advocate for fish and fish habitat in the Fraser Valley. In 2002, Chris helped spearhead the Chilliwack/Vedder River Clean-Up Society to address the issue of illegal garbage dumping along the riverbanks. Since its inception, the society has hosted over 40 clean-up events, including 14 World River Day celebrations. Deeply committed to his community, Chris has also volunteered countless hours to developing softball and ice hockey leagues, and coordinating youth ball and hockey associations.

Her beloved Stewart community knows Patricia Grue for her commitment to serving many local programs for the past 40 years. Dedicating countless hours to the local food bank, the Christmas Hamper Program, the Stewart Services Society, and various youth programs, Patricia also played a pivotal role in establishing the town’s recycling program, an initiative close to her heart. Described as “a woman of service” Patricia has modeled humility, kindness and perseverance with every generous act.

Terri Hanen is a passionate advocate for the arts. By volunteering for The South Peace Art Society and the Community Arts Council, along with her position as Executive Director of the Kiwanis Performing Arts Centre (KPAC), she has helped establish a thriving arts and cultural scene in her community. Instrumental in building a home for the KPAC, Terri has created a hub for musicians, dancers and artists and the public who appreciate them. Through her work with Community Futures Peace Liard, Terri has also helped hundreds of entrepreneurs in the region work towards successfully launching their own businesses.