Category: Blog

Celebrating Material, Place, and Process: Brent Comber and the 2025 Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design 

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Photo: Brent Comber, 2024 Award of Distinction recipient

The 2025 Sam Carter Award program continues to celebrate excellence in BC’s vibrant design and craft community. Last year’s Award of Distinction recipient, Brent Comber, is a shining example of how material, story, and place intersect to create powerful, lasting work. 

A designer and sculptor based in North Vancouver, Brent has spent decades exploring the dialogue between nature and form. His studio practice is rooted in the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, with a focus on reclaimed and locally sourced wood. His signature works—bold, sculptural furniture pieces and installations—are beautiful, and they carry the weight of history, environment, and transformation. 

The short film produced about the 2024 Award of Distinction recipient offers a moving portrait of Brent’s process and perspective. For Brent, design is about listening—to the material, the context, and the cultural landscape around him. 

One of the most compelling themes in the film is Brent’s respect for the inherent life of wood—its knots, grain, and imperfections—and how these are celebrated rather than erased. “There’s a story in every tree,” he reflects, “and our job is to honour that.” This philosophy aligns beautifully with the values of the Sam Carter Award, which recognizes practitioners who elevate material-based design into cultural dialogue. 

The film also highlights Brent’s dedication to mentorship and community. His North Vancouver studio is a hub for emerging designers, artisans, and collaborators. Through this open-door approach, he has helped shape a generation of makers who are redefining BC’s creative identity. 

The Sam Carter Award, named for the legendary educator and design advocate, celebrates those who blend innovation with tradition, aesthetics with ethics, and art with function. Brent’s work exemplifies all of this—and more. 

This award program honours individual achievement and also highlights the rich diversity and strength of applied art and design across the province. From textile artists to woodworkers, ceramicists to jewellery designers, the recipients are a reminder of how creativity can transform both material and mindset. 

Brent’s work reminds us that good design is not just something we see—it’s something we feel, inhabit, and use in daily life. 

Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2025 Sam Carter Award recipients and join us in celebrating the incredible talent shaping BC’s design future. 

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

The 2025 Indigenous Business Award Gala: A Celebration Not to Be Missed 

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Every November, the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala stands out as one of the most inspiring and joyful evenings of the year—and this year’s celebration on November 5 at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver promises to be uniquely special. 

Now in its 17th year, the IBA Gala shines a powerful spotlight on Indigenous excellence in business across British Columbia. It’s a night that blends recognition, connection, and celebration—and it’s quickly become known as a can’t-miss event for leaders, changemakers, and supporters across sectors. 

This year’s recipients are remarkable examples of innovation, leadership, and impact: 

  • Business of the Year (1–2 person enterprise): Touch of Culture, West Vancouver 
  • Business of the Year (11+ person enterprise): Salish Soils, Sechelt 
  • Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement: Harold Calla, Squamish Nation 

The annual IBA program culminates with the Gala Presentation Ceremony. The 2025 program theme “Stronger Together”, embraces the entire community that comes together to honour the awardees. Their stories come to life through beautifully produced short films—deeply moving portraits that highlight the heart, hustle, and community values behind each business. Watching these films in a room full of peers, mentors, and supporters is powerful. You can feel the pride, the inspiration, and the momentum. 

Beyond the awards, the Gala is a celebration of connection. It’s a chance to gather with colleagues, friends, and new faces. Whether you’re reconnecting with a long-time business partner or meeting someone who might be your next collaborator, the networking opportunities are rich and meaningful. 

It’s also an incredibly fun night. Guests enjoy a delicious three-course meal, beats spun by IBA program alum DJ O Show, territorial welcomes that lift the spirit, and a room buzzing with energy and positivity. The IBA Gala is a night full of warmth, excitement, and heartfelt celebration. 

If you’ve attended before, you know the feeling: the joy of celebration, the power of recognition, and the energy of a room full of people moving forward together. If you haven’t, this is the perfect year to experience it. 

📅 November 5, 2025 
📍 Fairmont Hotel Vancouver 
🎟️ Tickets available now on Eventbrite 

The Indigenous Business Award Gala is more than an event—it’s a celebration of excellence, community, and the future we’re building together. Don’t miss it!

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

Canada Day in BC: Paddling Forward, Together 

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Each year on July 1, communities across British Columbia gather to mark Canada Day with celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to what makes this province—and this country—strong: its people. From the mountain towns of the Kootenays to the beaches of Vancouver Island, Canada Day reminds us that we are stronger together, and that diversity, respect, and shared purpose are at the heart of what it means to be Canadian. 

British Columbia is home to over 200 First Nations and a vibrant mix of cultures and languages from around the world. In Richmond, you’ll hear Cantonese, Tagalog, and Punjabi as you walk through the streets. In Prince Rupert, you might watch a Nisga’a or Ts’msyen artist carving a traditional mask while newcomers share homemade food at a community potluck. In Victoria, people gather at the Legislature to hear live music, including Indigenous drumming and local multicultural performances. These celebrations are more than just entertainment—they are a reflection of the many stories, struggles, and contributions that build a stronger province. 

A powerful metaphor shared by Indigenous leader, Honourable Steven Point (Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl) and former Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia shares the need to “paddle together” towards progress. We are all in the same canoe. Whether we are First Nations, settlers, immigrants, or refugees, we share these lands and waters—and if we paddle together, we move forward together. Progress requires unity, cooperation, and mutual respect. 

As we celebrate, it’s also important to reflect. Canada Day in BC does not come without complexity. The history of colonization, residential schools, and ongoing injustices must be acknowledged. In places like Kamloops and Williams Lake, the discoveries of unmarked graves have deepened public understanding of the painful legacy Indigenous communities continue to carry. That’s why Canada Day should also be a moment of truth and reconciliation—a chance to listen, learn, and act. 

Many communities are already leading the way. The City of Vancouver has integrated cultural protocol with local Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations into its civic celebrations. Powell River, now exploring a name change to better reflect Indigenous history and relationships, is an example of how we can move forward with respect. In small and large ways, British Columbians are beginning to align our celebrations with a deeper sense of inclusion and accountability. 

And through it all, the contributions of everyday people continue to shape this province: the Filipino care workers in Surrey keeping elders safe; the Syilx language teachers in the Okanagan preserving knowledge for future generations; the refugee family in Kelowna opening a small café and creating jobs; the Haida weaver in Masset keeping tradition alive while inspiring new generations of artists. 

So, as we celebrate Canada lets recognize each other’s stories, and paddle forward as one, there’s no limit to where we can go—together. 

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

Celebrating Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Meet the 2025 Indigenous Business Award Recipients

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BC Achievement is thrilled to share the names of the 2025 recipients of the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) – a celebration of the strength, vision, and innovation thriving within Indigenous economies across British Columbia.

Now in its 17th year, the IBA program, one of five award initiatives from the BC Achievement Foundation, honours Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs whose work not only uplifts communities but also drives innovation while staying rooted in culture, land, and tradition.

“The 2025 Indigenous Business Award recipients embody the strength, vision, and wisdom of their Nations,” said Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation. “These leaders are building businesses that uplift future generations and reaffirm the vital role of Indigenous economies across these territories.”

Recognizing Remarkable Entrepreneurs

This year’s recipients represent a diverse and inspiring range of enterprises—from young entrepreneurs to community-owned ventures and long-standing leaders. Their stories are inspiring examples of how Indigenous business continues to grow, evolve, and lead across sectors.

Meet the 2025 IBA Recipients:

  • Young Entrepreneur of the Year
    4 Generations Creations – Kamloops
  • Business of the Year (1–2 person enterprise)
    Touch of Culture – West Vancouver
  • Business of the Year (3–10 person enterprise)
    Authentic Indigenous Seafood Co-operation – Kamloops
  • Business of the Year (11+ person enterprise)
    Salish Soils – Sechelt
  • Community-owned Business of the Year (one entity)
    Skwlāx Resource Management Ltd – Chase
  • Community-owned Business of the Year (two or more entities)
    Khowutzun Development Corporation – Duncan
  • Business Partnership of the Year
    Kettle River Contracting LP – Cranbrook
  • Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement
    Harold Calla – Squamish Nation

Each recipient will be honoured at a formal gala ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The event is open to the public and promises to be an evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration. Early bird tickets are now available for $250 per person—purchase your tickets here.

With more than 230 alumni to date, the IBA program does more than honour excellence – it builds bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous economies, creates authentic spaces for Indigenous success stories to be shared, and helps inspire the next generation of business leaders.

A special thank-you to this year’s jury panel:

  • Tim Low, Board President, ANTCO & member of Métis Nation BC
  • Ernie (Bones) George, CEO, Inlailawatash Natural Resource Services (2015 IBA alumnus)
  • Ashley O’Neil, Owner of AshFireWear (2024 IBA alumna)

The Indigenous Business Award is made possible through the support of our partners. We are grateful to present the program in partnership with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation and Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan).

Thank you to Our Partners

Special thanks to our Platform Partner RBC, and program sponsors: Ovintiv, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, New Relationship Trust, Seaspan, West Fraser, ANTCO, BCLC, FortisBC, and SFU Beedie School of Business.

Join the Celebration

Follow along as we highlight this year’s recipients through our #shinethelightbc campaign and help us celebrate the incredible leadership, resilience, and success of Indigenous entrepreneurs throughout the province.

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

Partnerships Honouring First Nations Art Achievement with Thanks to Polygon Homes & KPMG

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Photo: 2024 First Nations Art Award Recipients (left to right), Kelly Cannell, James Hart, 71DANsuu & Stephanie Anderson

For more than two decades, BC Achievement has been dedicated to recognizing and elevating achievement across British Columbia, and its work has always extended beyond individual accolades. By celebrating individuals and communities that inspire positive change, the organization helps spark waves of transformation that ripple outward, enriching lives and building a more just and inclusive society. 

A key part of this mission has been BC Achievement’s commitment to forging meaningful partnerships that reflect an evolving focus on achievement. One such partnership is with Polygon Homes, whose past support, along with its 2022 transformational three-year gift, has been instrumental in celebrating achievements in First Nations art through the Polygon Award.  

Photo: 2024 Award of Distinction Recipient, James Hart, 71DANsuu

The 2025 Polygon Award in First Nations Art marks the 19th annual offering of the program which stands on the excellence of the 103 recipients who have received this important recognition and, the philanthropic community which supports BC Achievement’s programming. For more than a decade, Polygon Homes has contributed to honouring the achievements of First Nations artists in this province helping to create a legacy of artistic accomplishment for others to follow. 

Photo: 2024 Crabtree-McLennan Emerging Artist, Stephanie Anderson

The First Nations Art (FNA) program is closely linked with the BC Reconciliation Award, presented by BC Achievement in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Each year, the Crabtree-McLennan Emerging Artist—part of the FNA program—is commissioned to design a paddle symbolizing their personal interpretation of reconciliation. These original paddles are housed at Government House, with framed photographs presented annually to the BC Reconciliation Award recipients. Four paddles, representing the years 2021 to 2024, are currently on public display at Government House. 

Photo: 2024 Award Recipient, Kelly Cannell

Inspired by the excellence of Polygon Award recipients, KPMG partnered with BC Achievement to support FNA alumni through two meaningful, paid commissions. The first engaged alumni in a fundraising auction, generating substantial proceeds matched and donated by KPMG back into the program. The second is an annual commission that acquires the emerging artist’s work for KPMG’s permanent collection, proudly featured in their downtown Vancouver offices. 

Photo: 2024 FNA Exhibit & Award Ceremony guests taken at The Roundhouse

BC Achievement extends its heartfelt gratitude to Polygon Homes for its ongoing transformational support of the FNA program and its dedication to the foundation’s mission. We are equally thankful for our collaboration with KPMG, whose engagement with FNA alumni helps sustain the program while reinforcing our message to awardees that recognition from BC Achievement is just the beginning of their journey with us.  

If you are interested in supporting the Polygon Award in First Nations Art program through a sponsorship or donation please connect with program director, Rup Grewal – rup@bcachievement.com – who is happy to help. 

Nominations for the 2026 Polygon Award are currently open with the deadline of February 15, 2026 – Recognize remarkable and nominate a First Nations Artist today! 

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.  

The Phyllis Webstad Emerging Leader Designation – Carving the Path and Leading the Way 

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Photo: Phyllis Webstad, 2024 BC Reconciliation Award Recipient

BC Reconciliation Award 2024 recipient, Phyllis Webstad, speaking for all the awardees at the January ceremony earlier this year, shared her truth in telling her residential school experience. T’esóts’en, Patrick Kelly, who serves as an advisor to the Reconciliation program and was a member of its originating committee, announced at the ceremony that in recognition of Phyllis’ tenacity, courage and loving nature – in sharing her story of survival and incredible strength – the BC Reconciliation Award program will have a new category moving forward: The Phyllis Webstad Emerging Leader Designation.  

“In our children, in our young people, we have hope. They are the ones who will lead us forward, and we need to support and encourage them every step of the way.”  Phyllis Webstad 

The BC Reconciliation Award program’s 27 alumni serve as inspiring examples of what is possible when individuals and organizations commit to reconciliation in meaningful ways. Their efforts honour the past and help create a more inclusive and just future for all British Columbians.  

The BC Reconciliation Award draws inspiration from the work of Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], the 28th lieutenant governor of British Columbia and a founder of the award. His hand-carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, currently on display at the B.C. Parliament Buildings, was created as a symbol of reconciliation, with the understanding that “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” to move forward. 

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey—one that requires listening, learning, and action. By celebrating these achievements, we recognize the power of truth and the enduring strength of Indigenous communities in shaping a more united and respectful society for all British Columbians. As we look to the future and the challenges that lie ahead, it is more important than ever to recognize the achievements of emerging leaders in our province. 

Nominations for the 2026 BC Reconciliation Award program are open until February 15, 2026.
Visit this link to nominate now.

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

Announcing Kúkwpi7 Willie Sellars and Tsetasiya Geena Jackson at the 2025 IBA Gala

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Tsetasiya Geena Jackson and Kúkwpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars will be the Co-Directors of Ceremonies for the 2025 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala! The 17th annual IBA Gala is taking place on Wednesday, November 5, at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. This highly anticipated event is the place to be for anyone interested in Indigenous business in BC. 

Meet Tsetasiya Geena Jackson 

Geena Jackson returns for her fourth year as Co-Director of the IBA Gala, bringing her experience and passion for celebrating Indigenous business excellence. As a devoted advocate for Indigenous rights, self-determination, and economic development, Geena has over 25 years of experience serving First Nation communities and the industry at large. A proud member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt), she is deeply committed to strengthening Indigenous communities through strategic partnerships with industry experts and government bodies. 

Geena has been instrumental in helping over 800 Indigenous entrepreneurs grow their businesses and social enterprises. Her commitment to Indigenous economic growth is further exemplified by her creation of the Bears’ Lair TV show on APTN, where she serves as a core judge. This unique platform supports Indigenous entrepreneurs on a national scale, offering exposure, guidance, and opportunities to scale their ventures. 

Additionally, Geena has created the Bears’ Lair Youth Dream Camps, teaching Indigenous youth aged 11-18 across Canada about entrepreneurship, life skills, and creating tools for future success. She has offered over 65 camps and is well on her way to facilitating additional camps in 2025, educating, elevating, and inspiring over 1,000 Indigenous youth nationwide. 

Meet Kúkwpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars 

Joining Geena this year is Kúkwpi7 Willie Sellars whose Nation is a recipient of the 2022 IBA for its business Sugar Cane Archaeology and Kúkwpi7 Sellars is also an alumnus of the 2023 BC Reconciliation Award program. Kúkwpi7 Willie was born and raised in Williams Lake, BC and is a member of the Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) of the Secwepemc Nation. Elected to WLFN Council at the age of 24 in 2008, Willie was one of the youngest elected Councillors in WLFN history. After serving ten years on Council, he was elected as the Chief of the Williams Lake First Nation in 2018. In his previous work experience, Kúkwpi7 Willie worked as a Wildland Firefighter for the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations before returning to his community to assume the position of Special Project Coordinator in the WLFN Economic Development Department. During this time, he was responsible for new business initiatives flowing from Impact Benefit Agreements, engagement with proponents in the traditional territory, and community consultation for major WLFN projects. 

Kúkwpi7 Willie is also a published author of “Dipnetting with Dad,” which won a Moonbeam Children’s Book Award. He enjoys his family time with his five kids, playing hockey, pow wow dancing, attending community events at WLFN, dipnetting, and playing fastball. 

A Night to Celebrate Indigenous Entrepreneurial Achievement 

The 2025 Indigenous Business Award Gala is set to be an extraordinary evening of celebrating achievement in the Indigenous economy. This event is an opportunity to honor outstanding accomplishments, network with industry leaders, and be part of a vibrant community that supports and uplifts Indigenous businesses. 

Don’t miss out on this incredible event. Save the date and watch for early bird tickets beginning August 15, 2025. Sponsorship opportunities remain available.  

Contact Angela Marston, IBA Program Director angela@bcachievement.com and join the IBA sponsorship family today! 

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

RBC Joins BC Achievement Foundation as Inaugural Platform Partner with Transformative $80,000 Sponsorship

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We’re excited to share some incredible news: RBC has officially joined the BC Achievement Foundation as our inaugural Platform Partner, generously committing $80,000 in support of two of our signature recognition programs — the Indigenous Business Award and the Community Award.

This support represents more than a financial contribution — it’s an investment in the power of recognition and the people who are transforming their communities and economies through leadership, innovation, and service.

“We are proud to welcome RBC as BC Achievement’s inaugural Platform Partner in acknowledgement of extraordinary and foundational cross-program sponsorship and its generous commitment,” said Walter Pela, BC Achievement Foundation Board Chair. “This transformative support reflects RBC’s investment in our shared goal to drive meaningful change throughout the province. As our Platform Partner, RBC demonstrates its engagement with and support of Indigenous entrepreneurial excellence and community-based leaders,” he added. “Thank you for joining us to inspire achievement in British Columbia.”

“As we prepare for the start of National Indigenous History Month, RBC’s partnership with BC Achievement Foundation’s Indigenous Business Award program is uniquely meaningful,” said RBC Regional President, Martin Thibodeau. “And, we are equally grateful to support the 2025 Community Award program, celebrating 22 outstanding awardees earlier this month. The Foundation’s broader work – uplifting British Columbians through both the Indigenous Business and Community Award programs aligns with RBC’s Purpose to help clients thrive and communities prosper, and we’re so proud to stand alongside the Foundation in their efforts to tell the stories of our province and drive meaningful change across British Columbia.”

This year marks the 17th anniversary of the Indigenous Business Award program, which stands on the excellence of over 230+ alumni and generous sponsorship community. The announcement of the 2025 awardees will take place the week of June 24, followed by the launch of our #shinethelightbc campaign. The celebration will culminate at the Gala Presentation Dinner on Wednesday, November 5 at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

RBC’s sponsorship also extends to the 2025 Community Award program, which recently celebrated 22 remarkable individuals at a heartfelt ceremony at Government House in Victoria. In the presence of the Honourable Wendy Cocchia, CM, OBC, awardees were recognized for their outstanding community service, joining a growing network of over 680 alumni who continue to build stronger, more inclusive communities across BC.

At BC Achievement, we believe that recognition ignites purpose, and with RBC standing beside us as a Platform Partner, we’re excited to continue elevating excellence across the province.

Learn more about our programs and how you can get involved at www.bcachievement.com.

BC Achievement. Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

2025 Community Awardees Celebrated: Recognizing British Columbians who build better, stronger and more engaged communities

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Photo: Recipients of the 2025 Community Award

On May 7, 2025, the recipients of the 22nd annual Community Award were celebrated at a formal presentation ceremony held in Victoria, BC in the presence of Her Honour, the Honourable Wendy Cocchia, CM, OBC, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. 

BC Achievement board vice-chair, Christopher Gaze, OBC (program alumnus 2007) served as the Director of Ceremonies and delivered citations celebrating each of the 21 recipients present. The ceremony was a powerful and emotional testament to the strength of community throughout the province; each awardee is an outstanding representative of dedication, leadership and actions that inspire the next generation. 

T,łalisam Kim van der Woerd, BC Achievement board member and 2018 alumna of the Mitchell Award of Distinction and Indigenous Business Award, introduced and presented the 2025 Mitchell Award. The recipient of the 2025 Mitchell Award of Distinction designation is Valerie Jerome, whose moving remarks given on behalf of all the recipients, underpinned the power and extraordinary impact of community service: 

“My way forward in life was made possible by the likes of the people who are being honoured here today: kind-hearted, generous, loving-individuals who gave of their time, energy and enormous compassion to give me a chance to develop my abilities, to grow and to achieve my goals against all odds”. 

Photo (left to right): The Honourable Wendy Cocchia, CM, OBC, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, Valerie Jerome, 2025 Mitchell Award designate, Kim van der Woerd, 2018 Mitchell Award designate and BC Achievement Board Member

The Mitchell Award designate of the Community Award is selected by the BC Achievement Foundation board in consultation with the program’s community. The award recognizes an individual who, through their work and/or volunteer activities, demonstrates a commitment to elevating and empowering others. 

Christopher Gaze addressed all the recipients following their recognition: “Your individual records of service, taken together, describe the very best of our home here in British Columbia. You and your families should be proud of the work you have done. Certainly, BC Achievement is grateful to recognize you and inspire others to follow in your footsteps”.   

This year’s recipients, selected by an independent jury (Mayor Suzan Hewat of Kaslo; Mayor Sarrah Storey of Fraser Lake; and program alumni: Herman Ho of Vancouver; Meeka Morgan of Ashcroft; and Upkar Tatlay of Surrey), include:   

  • Tli’ichilwet Heather Andrew & Yuwunat Eileen Guss, Squamish Nation
  • Barbara Attig, Salmon Arm
  • Robert Best, Vancouver
  • Serena Caner, Canoe
  • Josephine Chauhan & Neera Vohra-Singh, Vancouver
  • Gwen Hansen, Quatsino
  • Floyd Hill, Vancouver
  • Valerie Jerome, Vancouver
  • Chantelle Krish, Vancouver
  • Carol Anne Lee, CM, OBC, Vancouver
  • Trevor Mack, Tl’etinqox Community of the Tsilhqot’in Nation
  • Glen McCall, Zeballos
  • Wenonah North Peigan, Vancouver
  • Robert Olson, North Vancouver
  • Bob Purdy, North Vancouver
  • Debra Rogers, Campbell River
  • Susan Scott Gabe, Duncan
  • Meste’si Llucmetkwe Colleen Seymour, Kamloops
  • Dr. Sabeen Tiwana, Vancouver
  • Amarjeet Singh Vabhana, Surrey
  • Rik Valentine, Argenta
  • Margaux Wosk, Vancouver

Watch the recording of the event 
View the photos from the ceremony 

BC Achievement thanks the many the nominators for their commitment in acknowledging those who make a positive impact in our communities and serve as inspiring models for others to follow.  

The foundation is grateful to its inaugural Platform Partner RBC – whose generous support of the 2025 Community Award program allows us to sustain and expand this important work. Thank you for joining us in telling the stories of amazing British Columbians and, in doing so, we are building stronger and more engaged communities throughout the province. 

Nominations for the 2026 program are open and accessible throughout the year until February 15, 2026 at bcachievement.com. 

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

Beyond Recognition: The Enduring Value of Alumni Connections at BC Achievement 

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Photo: Mitchell Award of Distinction recipients (left to right) Dom Bautista (2020), T,lalisam Kim van der Woerd (2018) & Marcus Mosely (2024)

Looking for a mentor, an ambassador or a successful business model? Tap into BC Achievement’s archive and explore the leadership resources our award alumni can offer.  

Program alumni are a talented, motivated and inspiring group of 1100+ outstanding British Columbians who do amazing things to make their communities better.   

For 22 years, BC Achievement has been celebrating the accomplishments of the province’s most inspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, artists, leaders, visionaries and volunteers. Through each of its five programs: Indigenous Business; First Nations Art; Applied Art + Design, Community and the BC Reconciliation Award (delivered in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor), recognition is used as a tool to showcase excellence and inspire change. Each awardee’s journey with BC Achievement begins with their selection as a leader in their field by an independent jury. And that is just the beginning.  

Award recipients join the growing and impressive alumni who continue to lead, create and build – often becoming mentors, connecting with fellow alumni and sharing ideas. Some find that receiving recognition strengthens their self-confidence and sets them on the path to take the next step and grow further. In addition, alumni return to participate in BC Achievement programming, serving as members of the jury panel, nominating worthy candidates, attending ceremonies, presenting recognition to the incoming awardees and advising program directors on the trends and innovations in their respective fields. 

BC Achievement hears that being part of the alumni network is a game changer for many awardees. What starts as a simple way to stay connected can be a powerful source of mentorship, opportunity, and growth. In a trusted community, insights can be gained that no textbook could teach along with the support offered. Alumni relationships and keeping in touch with BC Achievement reminds all of us that success is rarely a solo journey—it’s built through shared stories, mutual support, and a commitment to lifting each other up. 

Want to know more about BC Achievement alumni? Check out the  Awardee page  on our website or view the short Awardee recognition films on our  YouTube channel.   
 
Contact info@bcachievement.com for more information. Be part of it!  

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.