Award Category: Community Award

Barbara Hulme is honoured as a founding member of the Métis Nation Greater Victoria. “Barb”, as she is affectionately known, is a mentor, a knowledge keeper and now, a trusted elder in the Métis community. Through teaching and mentorship at the University of Victoria Barb supports Métis students at the First People’s House. Her mentorship is part of a much wider, more diverse effort, on Barb’s part, to improve the Métis community. She has also volunteered in her local Métis office as an administrator, historian, citizenship coordinator and genealogy advisor for more than 13 years. Everything Barb does supports, strengthens and nurtures Victoria’s Métis community.

The contributions Don James has made to Powell River’s arts and cultural community are literally music to people’s ears, so it’s natural they’d sing his praises. It began with the International Choral Festival Don launched three decades ago, and which continues as a major event and significant source of pride today. He founded the Symphony Orchestra Academy of the Pacific, served as a juror for the Juno Awards and the CBC’s National Choir competition. His establishment of the Powell River Academy of Music forges opportunities for further generations of musicians. All of Don’s efforts have made Powell River a cultural capital for British Columbia and the world.

As President of the Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation, Jim Kincaid is a committed and inspiring voice, and one that’s achieved an international profile for the institution he serves. That commitment is also reflected in his presence on the boards of the Wolverine Nordic and Mountain Society and the Peace Region Palaeontology Centre. Jim’s work as the director of the Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark has given the community hope through transforming the challenges of the local economy. His visionary leadership and integrity, coupled with a skill set that promotes collaboration, have been of great benefit to Tumbler Ridge and its citizens.

Vancouver Island’s Wild Pacific Trail exists because of the passionate efforts of “Oyster Jim” and Barbara. The trail, along the island’s west coast, has made a significant contribution not just to the community of Ucluelet, but to Vancouver Island and all of British Columbia. “Oyster Jim” envisioned a trail at the edge of the ocean, then set out to build it, bushwhacking much of its length himself. Barbara is dedicated to administering the Wild Pacific Trail’s fundraising and management, furthering the trail society’s educational goals. Together, their vision has made the natural splendour of British Columbia’s west coast accessible to its citizens, visitors and future generations.

Youth leadership and community volunteerism are the areas where Ceilidh Millar has made outstanding contributions. Over the past eight years, Ceilidh has made a tangible difference in her community through her advocacy efforts in areas including anti-bullying and youth empowerment. Her leadership has engaged thousands of young British Columbians in volunteering and making a difference in their communities. Ceilidh has also devoted hundreds of hours to performance and outreach with the British Columbia Girls’ Choir. A compelling role model, Ceilidh recognizes the importance of giving back while encouraging and inspiring others to be ‘change-makers.’

“If Burns Bog has a saviour, it’s Eliza Olson” states the Delta Optimist. Dr. Eliza Olson is being honoured for her commitment and leadership as one of the visionary founders of the Burns Bog Conservation Society. For 28 years, Eliza has served as the society’s president and its executive director. She is dedicated to running numerous outreach programs and using a variety of media to help students and the general public learn more about the bog and understand its environmental importance. Her advocacy and passion have ensured the protection and sustainability of Burns Bog for future generations.

As a nurse, educator and researcher, Dr. Bernie Pauly is recognized for her passionate commitment to improving the health of people marginalized by society. Through Bernie’s work, she has not only helped to improve the lives of others, but as an educator, has inspired many students to follow her lead. Her impact has been felt in the many organizations she has supported such as the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness, AIDS Vancouver Island, and the Society of Living Illicit Drug Users. Bernie continues working towards the goals of health equity and reducing harms associated with substance use and homelessness. Respected for her knowledge and professionalism, Bernie is admired for the sincere warmth and compassion she brings to all she does.

Shortly after arriving in Enderby to teach in 1967, John Pavelich – “JP” set about doing everything he could to make life better for the city. He’s an exemplary volunteer, known as the “Garage Sale Guru” who also has raised money to build ramps, gazebos, tennis courts and can organize a stellar pancake breakfast! John is integral to Enderby and has contributed significantly to its social, cultural and economic well-being. It’s said that if you call “JP” the job will get done and “JP” is revered and relied upon as one of Enderby’s most beloved and trusted residents.

Sports are at the core of Henry Pejril’s life, and his dedicated passion drives his volunteer efforts. What began as coaching his children’s hockey and soccer teams grew into the presidency of the Kamloops Sports Council, then expanded further, into organizing numerous national and provincial cycling championships. He served as President of the BC Summer Games in 2006 and the Western Canada Summer Games in 2011. Henry’s dedication has ensured that young athletes have the chance to compete while developing their mental and physical fitness. He has also been a key force in assisting Kamloops achieve its esteemed title of Canada’s Tournament Capital.

The history of 100 Mile House is visible in a unique and immediate way because of Ruth Peterson’s enthusiastic passion. She researched, planned and coordinated resources to have the town’s narrative depicted in murals. As part of that work, Ruth ensured the murals’ authenticity and gave a voice to the stories of 100 Mile House. Her efforts add to the town’s visual beauty while expressing its rediscovered past. Her vision has led a project which has generated a respect for those who came before and how they shaped the future of 100 Mile House.