Category: Blog

Twenty Years of Extraordinary First Nations Art 

Posted on by bcachievement

Photo: 2026 Award Recipient, Gigaemi Kukwits (Frank Baker)

Join us for the 2026 Polygon Award in First Nations Art Ceremony and Dinner 

Art has the power to tell stories, carry knowledge, challenge perspectives and connect generations. For 20 years, the Polygon Award in First Nations Art has celebrated artists whose creativity and cultural expression enrich British Columbia and beyond. 

This November, we’re marking that milestone in the best way possible: by celebrating four remarkable First Nations artists whose work reflects the depth, diversity and vitality of artistic practice in BC. 

On November 24, join BC Achievement at The Roundhouse in Vancouver for an evening of art, storytelling, community and celebration. 

Meet the 2026 recipients: 

Gigaemi Kukwits  (Frank Baker) | Award Recipient 

With a remarkable artistic career spanning seven decades, Gigaemi Kukwits brings together his Capilano, Kwakwaka’wakw and Tlingit heritage with a lifetime of creative exploration. His vibrant paintings blend Northwest Coast design traditions with bold colour, expressive movement and contemporary influences. Inspired by travels around the world and apprenticeships with Indigenous artists, Gigaemi pushes artistic boundaries, creating work that is both deeply rooted in culture and refreshingly original. 

Marika Swan | Award Recipient 

Tla-o-qui-aht artist Marika Swan brings a powerful contemporary voice to traditional Northwest Coast art through her distinctive woodblock prints. Drawing on Nuu-chah-nulth teachings, motherhood and ancestral knowledge, her richly layered works explore identity, healing and the strength of women. Beyond her art, she is a passionate advocate for cultural revitalization, helping preserve and share Nuu-chah-nulth knowledge for future generations. 

Sheldon Pierre Louis | Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist 

Syilx artist Sheldon Pierre Louis receives this year’s emerging artist designation, recognizing his creative accomplishments and potential for continued artistic growth. Sheldon brings Indigenous storytelling into contemporary spaces through vibrant murals, paintings, digital art and traditional practices. From his beginnings as a youth muralist in Vernon to creative collaborations with Disney, his work celebrates cultural identity, community and connection. 

Lyle Wilson | Award of Distinction 

A highly respected Haisla artist, Lyle Wilson has made an extraordinary contribution to First Nations art over a distinguished career. His distinctive practice spans the carving of wood, ivory and bone; gold, silver copper and platinum metal engraving, painting, drawing, printmaking and writing – earning him recognition for work that is both deeply rooted in Haisla traditions and unmistakably contemporary. This year’s Award of Distinction celebrates Lyle’s enduring legacy. 

Coming Together 

At the Polygon Award ceremony, guests will have an opportunity to view the recipients’ work, hear their stories through specially produced films and join in recognizing their achievements. 

The evening brings together First Nations artists, cultural leaders, collectors, galleries, arts professionals, community members and supporters for a celebration that is as much about connection as it is about recognition. 

And with the award program celebrating its 20th anniversary, this year’s event offers a special opportunity to reflect on two decades of extraordinary artistic achievement and the many artists whose work has helped shape BC’s cultural landscape. 

Whether you’re a longtime supporter of First Nations art or discovering these artists for the first time, this is an opportunity to experience their work in a meaningful and memorable setting. 

When you attend, you’re joining a community of people who value First Nations art and the artists who continue to shape its future. 

Your participation also supports BC Achievement’s work in bringing these stories to audiences across the province. 

Join us for an evening of exceptional art and inspiring stories. Twenty years of celebrating First Nations artistic excellence is something worth recognizing. 

Tuesday, November 24, 2026 | 5:30–9:00 PM 

The Roundhouse Exhibition Hall, Vancouver 

Tickets: $150 per person, including a seated dinner. 

Purchase Tickets Here 

The public can also enjoy the free combined exhibition featuring recipients of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design, November 17–24 at The Roundhouse. 

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

Beyond the Ordinary: Join Us for the 2026 Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design Reception 

Posted on by bcachievement

Photo: 2026 Award Recipient, Mona Lisa Ali

Think about the objects that surround you every day. The chair you sit in, the ceramics on your table, the lighting that transforms a room. Behind great design is someone who saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary. 

On November 19, BC Achievement invites you to celebrate four exceptional artists and designers who are reimagining what’s possible when creativity, craftsmanship and function come together. 

The Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design celebrates artists whose work enriches our lives, challenges convention and contributes to BC’s vibrant creative economy. 

And this year’s recipients give us plenty to talk about. 

Meet the 2026 recipients we’re celebrating: 

Corrina Hammond | Award Recipient 

Artist, educator and weaver Corrina Hammond breathes new life into traditional weaving techniques, transforming everything from reclaimed fabrics to natural fibres into beautiful, functional pieces. Through her weaving studio, workshops and community collaborations, Corrina is keeping traditional skills alive and inspiring a new appreciation for the craft of weaving. 

Alan Hung | Award Recipient 

An internationally recognized furniture and product designer, Alan Hung brings together innovation, ergonomics and thoughtful craftsmanship. His designs explore how everyday objects can be both beautiful and useful, combining traditional techniques with advanced digital fabrication. His work has received international recognition, including the prestigious Red Dot Best of the Best Award. 

Mona Lisa Ali | Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist 

For ceramic artist Mona Lisa Ali, the materials themselves tell a story. Working with locally collected clay, silt and stone, she creates wood-fired vessels that explore connections between land, history and human experience. Her artistic journey began with a 420-kilometre walk across Jordan, where she collected clay samples and discovered a fascination with the stories held within the earth. 

Omer Arbel | Award of Distinction 

Internationally acclaimed artist and designer Omer Arbel is recognized for his extraordinary contributions to contemporary design. Known for his experimental approach to materials, lighting and form, his work crosses the boundaries between art, design and architecture. His achievements have helped bring international attention to BC’s creative talent. 

An evening designed to inspire 

Imagine spending an evening surrounded by remarkable objects and the people who imagined, designed and made them. 

The Sam Carter Award reception at The Roundhouse is an opportunity to do exactly that. 

Guests will experience an exhibition featuring the work of this year’s recipients, watch the premiere of short films revealing the stories behind their creative journeys, and connect with artists, designers, collectors, galleries and others who appreciate exceptional craftsmanship. 

It’s an opportunity to discover new talent, meet established creative leaders and experience firsthand the imagination and skill that make BC’s design community so exciting. 

Whether you’re a designer, an art enthusiast, a collector, a student or simply someone who appreciates beautiful and thoughtfully made objects, you’ll find something to spark your curiosity. 

Support the people who make BC creative 

Recognition matters. For artists and designers, being celebrated creates opportunities for their work to reach new audiences, encourages meaningful connections and helps elevate the value of applied art in our communities. 

By purchasing a ticket, you’re helping celebrate the achievements of four exceptional individuals and supporting the visibility of BC’s creative sector. 

Businesses and organizations can also become sponsors, helping BC Achievement showcase creative excellence and bring these stories to a wider audience. 

Bring a friend, invite a colleague or make it an evening out with people who share your curiosity about art and design. 

Thursday, November 19, 2026 | 5:30–8:00 PM 

The Roundhouse Exhibition Hall, Vancouver 

Tickets: $55 per person, including hors d’oeuvres and refreshments 

Purchase Tickets Here

Get your tickets today and be part of the community honouring applied art and design excellence. 

Can’t make the reception? The combined Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design and Polygon Award in First Nations Art exhibition is free to visit at The Roundhouse from November 17–24. 

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

A Remarkable Evening: Join Us at the 2026 Indigenous Business Award Gala 

Posted on by bcachievement

Photo: 2026 Award Recipient, Okimawa Services Inc.

On November 4, we’re bringing some of BC’s most inspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses and leaders together for an evening worth celebrating. 

The 18th annual Indigenous Business Award Gala welcomes those who believe in the power of Indigenous entrepreneurship to create opportunity, strengthen communities and shape the future of BC’s economy. 

This year’s eight award recipients show just how diverse and dynamic Indigenous business has become. 

You’ll have the opportunity to meet the incredible recipients: 

West Coast Wildflowers | Young Entrepreneur of the Year 

Founded by Wet’suwet’en entrepreneur Alissa Assu in Campbell River, West Coast Wildflowers began as a small holiday pop-up and has grown into a thriving business. Alissa has since expanded her entrepreneurial reach into several other brands, creating opportunities for Indigenous makers and demonstrating how business can build community. 

Okimawa Services Inc. | Business of the Year, One to Two Person Enterprise 

Founded by Courtnall Apsassin of Blueberry River First Nations, Okimawa is an Indigenous-owned electrical contracting company serving Northern BC. Alongside providing essential electrical services, the company is creating pathways into skilled trades through employment and apprenticeship opportunities. 

Skwálwen Botanicals | Business of the Year, Three to Ten Person Enterprise 

Skwálwen Botanicals brings Indigenous botanical knowledge and contemporary skincare together, creating products rooted in relationships with plants, land and culture. Owner Leigh ….. demonstrates how entrepreneurship can celebrate Indigenous knowledge. 

Cedar Brush Site Services & Janitorial | Business of the Year, 11+ Person Enterprise 

Established in 2021, this Indigenous-owned company has expanded from janitorial services into workforce solutions, site maintenance and culturally informed home care. Its success is creating meaningful employment and skills development opportunities across BC. 

Skeetchestn Dodeca-Homes | Community-Owned Business of the Year, One Entity 

Drawing inspiration from Secwépemc building traditions, Skeetchestn Dodeca-Homes combines Indigenous knowledge with innovative construction techniques to develop sustainable, culturally appropriate housing. Its work is helping First Nations communities build housing capacity and advance self-determination. 

Petroglyph Development Group | Community-Owned Business of the Year, Two or More Entities 

The economic development arm of Snuneymuxw First Nation has grown into a diversified enterprise spanning hospitality, gaming, forestry, tourism and more. With approximately 1,800 employees across its businesses, Petroglyph demonstrates the scale and potential of Indigenous-led economic development. 

700 Spland Road Limited Partnership | Business Partnership of the Year 

A partnership between Ntityix Development Corporation and Hungerford Properties, this initiative is creating quality rental housing on Westbank First Nation reserve lands. It demonstrates how shared values, collaboration and Indigenous-led development can deliver lasting community benefits. 

Wendy Grant-John (taχʷtəna) | Award of Distinction 

A respected Musqueam leader, Wendy Grant-John has dedicated more than four decades to Indigenous governance, economic development and cultural revitalization. A former Chief of Musqueam First Nation and advocate for Indigenous leadership, her contributions have helped create opportunities for generations. 

Why you should be in the room 

There’s something special about hearing the stories behind successful businesses, particularly when those stories involve overcoming challenges, building partnerships and creating opportunities for others. 

At the IBA Gala, guests will experience the premiere of short films highlighting this year’s recipients, enjoy a seated dinner, and connect with Indigenous entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, community representatives and others committed to Indigenous economic success. 

Co-Directors of Ceremonies Tsetasiya Geena Jackson and Kúkwpi7 Chief Willie Sellars will guide the evening, with music from DJ O Show. 

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, a business leader interested in building relationships, or someone who wants to support Indigenous success, this is an evening that brings people together around shared possibilities. 

Bring colleagues, invite business partners, or gather a table of people who would appreciate an evening of meaningful connections and celebration. 

Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 5:30–10:00 PM 

Hyatt Regency Vancouver 

Tickets: $300 per person, including dinner 

Purchase Tickets Here 

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

Get Curious. Come Celebrate. Be Part of the Story. 

Posted on by bcachievement

Looking for a reason to get out, meet some fascinating people and experience something you might not normally come across? We have three. This November, BC Achievement is hosting three very different celebrations, filled with great stories, creative energy, new connections and some truly remarkable people from across the province. Come for the evening, meet the awardees, see their work and discover what makes these celebrations so special. 

Our fall calendar includes the Indigenous Business Award Gala, the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design reception, and the Polygon Award in First Nations Art dinner. Each has its own atmosphere and community, but all three offer the chance to step into a room full of people doing interesting things and to leave knowing a little more about the talent, ideas and passion found across BC. 

Come curious. 

Who is building an innovative Indigenous business in a community you’ve never visited? Who is carrying an artistic practice forward while taking it somewhere completely new? Who is transforming materials, ideas and techniques into work that makes you stop, look again and ask questions? 

The awardees we celebrate have invested years in what they do. Attending an event is a chance to meet some of them, hear their stories and be part of the community gathering around their achievements. 

Pick an evening. Or join us for all three. 

The Indigenous Business Award Gala takes place November 4 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver. It’s a lively evening celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses and community-owned enterprises from across the province, with plenty of opportunities to connect with people from the Indigenous business community and beyond. 

On November 19, we gather at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre for the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design reception. This is a chance to mingle, explore the exhibition and meet some of the artists and designers whose exceptional work brings together creativity, function and craftsmanship. 

Then, on November 24, we return to the Roundhouse for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art dinner, an evening of art, storytelling, conversation and celebration honouring First Nations artists from across British Columbia. 

Three events. Three very different experiences. And three great reasons to put something a little different on your November calendar. 

And there’s more to see, for free. 

You don’t need an event ticket to experience some of this year’s extraordinary work. 

From November 17 to 24, the Roundhouse will host the joint Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design and Polygon Award in First Nations Art exhibition, featuring work by this year’s award recipients. 

The exhibition is free and open to the public. 

Drop in on your lunch break. Bring a friend. Make it part of an afternoon or evening in Yaletown. Spend some time with the work, discover an artist you didn’t know before and, if something catches your attention, tell someone about it. 

That simple act matters. 

Recognition doesn’t end when an award is presented. It grows when people show up, ask questions, visit an exhibition, watch an awardee film, share a story or introduce someone else to the work. 

Come for the celebration. 

Buying a ticket to one of our fall events is also a direct way to support BC Achievement and the award programs that make this recognition possible. But your presence brings something else too: curiosity, conversation and connection. 

You might come because you know an awardee. You might come with colleagues or friends. You might be interested in Indigenous business, art or design. Or you might simply be looking for an interesting night out and the chance to meet people you wouldn’t ordinarily meet. 

All are excellent reasons. 

Get a ticket. Bring someone along. Come curious. Meet remarkable people. And help us make sure their stories are seen, heard and shared. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/52702159663 

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

The Support Behind the Stories 

Posted on by bcachievement

At BC Achievement, our mission is to honour excellence and inspire achievement throughout British Columbia. Recognition is the starting point. The greater opportunity is what happens when we take the story of an award recipient beyond the award itself and share it with people across the province. 

Sponsorship helps us do that. 

It supports the many pieces that bring an award program to life, from reaching communities during the nomination process to celebrating recipients at our ceremonies and events. Just as importantly, it helps us document and share their stories through film, photography, media, digital content and ongoing storytelling. 

These things matter because there are extraordinary people doing important work in every corner of British Columbia, and much of that work happens without a spotlight. 

A community volunteer may have spent decades quietly helping others. An artist may be carrying knowledge forward while opening new creative possibilities. An Indigenous entrepreneur may be creating jobs and opportunities that extend well beyond their own business. Someone working toward reconciliation may be changing relationships one conversation, project or community at a time. 

When we share those stories, recognition travels further. 

Someone sees what is possible. A young artist discovers a new path. An entrepreneur makes a connection. A community feels pride in one of its own. Someone watching a recipient film recognizes an idea, an experience or a value that resonates with them. 

That ripple effect is at the heart of why BC Achievement exists. Our five award programs recognize excellence in community leadership, reconciliation, Indigenous business, First Nations art, and applied art and design. While the programs are different, they share a common purpose: to shine a light on people doing exceptional work and, through their example, inspire others.  

Our sponsors become part of making that possible. Their support gives us the capacity to reach more people, create meaningful experiences for award recipients, produce high-quality films and storytelling, and keep those stories accessible long after an award has been presented.  

There is, of course, value for sponsors too. Partnership creates opportunities for organizations to connect their own values with the people and communities shaping BC. The strongest partnerships are more than a logo on an event program. They come from a shared belief that recognizing good work encourages more good work. 

There are remarkable stories all around us. Sponsorship helps us find them, celebrate them, and most importantly, share them. 

Because when a story reaches the right person at the right moment, recognition can become inspiration. And inspiration has a way of making ripples beyond its original impact. 

If you’re interested in making sure awardee stories are heard, you can find out more about sponsorship opportunities at https://bcachievement.com/engagement/ 

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

Behind the Scenes: Bringing Remarkable Stories to the Screen 

Posted on by bcachievement

Each year, we travel across British Columbia to meet the people being recognized through our award programs and capture their stories on film. The finished short films may only be a few minutes long, but behind each one are hours of conversation, preparation, filming and careful editing. 

Before filming begins, our team works with each awardee to learn more about their story and determine where and how it can best be told. Whenever possible, we film people in the places that are meaningful to them: their studios, businesses, workshops, offices, communities and other spaces where their work comes to life. 

On shoot day the focus shifts to the person in front of the camera. 

The interview is intentionally conversational. We ask about beginnings and turning points, influences and challenges, the work they are most proud of and the people who have been part of their journey. We also spend time capturing them doing what they do: creating, leading, teaching, building, collaborating and contributing to their communities. 

Our awardees come from different regions, disciplines, industries and experiences, and there is no single way to tell their stories. Our responsibility is to listen closely and create the space for each person to speak in their own voice. We are continually reminded that behind every achievement is a much larger story of persistence, relationships, generosity, courage and purpose. 

When the final films are shared at our award celebrations and with audiences across the province, viewers see the finished story. What they may not see are the conversations between takes, the laughter when something goes off script, the careful adjustments behind the camera, or the moments of reflection that stay with everyone in the room long after filming ends. 

This year, we wanted to share a little more of that side of the experience. 

These behind-the-scenes images offer a glimpse into how the stories of our 2026 awardees are being brought to life. For our team, every shoot is an opportunity to learn, to listen and to better understand the remarkable people and work that exist throughout British Columbia. 

We are honoured to help tell their stories, and we can’t wait to share the finished films with you. 

Join us as we premiere the awardee films: 

November 4, Indigenous Business Award Gala 

November 19, Sam Carter Applied Art + Design Award Reception 

November 24, Polygon First Nations Art Award Dinner 

Tickets available at https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/52702159663 

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

Sharing Stories That Inspire: Behind BC Achievement’s Award Recipient Films 

Posted on by bcachievement

At BC Achievement, one of the most meaningful ways we celebrate excellence is by sharing the stories of the award recipients through film. These short documentaries capture what recipients have accomplished, and their passions, challenges, values and the impact they have on their communities. 

Since producing its first films in 2006, BC Achievement has created a growing collection of more than 100 award recipient films, each highlighting the remarkable individuals recognized through the Foundation’s award programs, including the Polygon Award in First Nations Art, Indigenous Business Award and Sam Carter Award in Applied Art +Design. 

Together, these films tell a powerful story about the people shaping British Columbia today. 

The filmmaking process begins shortly after recipients are selected by an independent jury. Once awardees are notified, the production team starts learning about each individual or business through conversations and pre-interviews, identifying the people, places and experiences that have shaped their journey. 

Filming takes place where recipients live and work. From artist studios and community gathering spaces to businesses, cultural sites and stunning landscapes throughout British Columbia, every location helps tell a richer, more authentic story. 

Additional footage, archival photographs and meaningful moments are woven together with interviews, music and graphics to create a film that reflects the recipient’s unique voice and contribution. 

While the finished films are only a few minutes long, each represents many hours of thoughtful collaboration between recipients and a talented team of filmmakers dedicated to capturing stories with care and authenticity. 

The films are an important part of BC Achievement’s mission to honour excellence, celebrate success and inspire future generations. 

They introduce audiences to remarkable British Columbians whose work preserves cultural traditions, supports local economies and enriches the social and cultural fabric of our province. 

Our growing collection of award recipient films is available on the BC Achievement YouTube channel, offering an opportunity to meet some of the exceptional individuals whose contributions continue to shape British Columbia. 

Whether you’re discovering BC Achievement for the first time or returning to learn about the latest recipients, we invite you to explore these films, prepare to learn something new and be inspired! 

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

Looking Forward: Celebrating the Future of Indigenous Business 

Posted on by bcachievement

This year’s Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala theme, Looking Forward, celebrates the vision of what could be. The determination to build something that benefits not only today’s generation, but that of tomorrow’s generation. 

For 18 years, the Indigenous Business Award program has recognized Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, partnerships and community-owned enterprises that are redefining success across British Columbia. Their accomplishments strengthen communities, create opportunities, protect culture, steward the land and inspire future generations of Indigenous leaders. 

Looking forward means recognizing that Indigenous business is one of the province’s greatest sources of innovation and economic growth. 

Across BC, Indigenous entrepreneurs are demonstrating that cultural knowledge, language, stewardship and community values are powerful foundations for sustainable business. Indigenous businesses across sectors such as technology, tourism, construction, clean energy, forestry, fashion, food production, and professional services reflect a deep understanding that prosperity is built through relationships. Their work strengthens communities, honours cultural knowledge, and creates opportunities that benefit generations to come. 

Their success is measured not only by profit, but by the opportunities they create for families, employees and communities. 

One of the most exciting aspects of Indigenous business today is the emergence of a new generation of leaders. 

Young entrepreneurs are combining innovation with traditional knowledge, embracing new technologies while carrying forward teachings from Elders. Many are creating businesses that respond to today’s challenges while planning for the well-being of future generations. 

Their work reflects a long-term vision—one that considers environmental stewardship, cultural continuity, economic independence and community prosperity together. 

This is what looking forward means. 

As Indigenous businesses continue to grow and evolve, they are helping shape a stronger, more inclusive economy for everyone in British Columbia. 

The Indigenous Business Award program is proud to celebrate those leading that work while looking ahead to the opportunities that lie before us. 

This year’s gala is an evening of recognition. It is a celebration of possibility, bold ideas and leadership. As we gather to celebrate this year’s recipients, we also celebrate the future they are helping to build. 

Together, we are looking forward. 

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

Recognize Remarkable: Help Celebrate British Columbia’s Changemakers 

Posted on by bcachievement

Every community has someone whose dedication, creativity or leadership deserves recognition. 

Whether it’s a volunteer who quietly transforms lives, an artist exhibiting excellence in their work, an Indigenous entrepreneur creating new opportunities, or a community leader building bridges, remarkable people are making a difference across British Columbia every day. 

Now is the perfect time to recognize them. 

With six months until nominations close on February 15, 2027, there’s plenty of time to prepare a thoughtful nomination. Starting early allows you to gather letters of support, collect background information and tell the story of someone whose contributions deserve to be celebrated. 

Five Award Programs. One Purpose. 

BC Achievement is proud to recognize excellence through five provincial award programs that celebrate the people and organizations helping shape British Columbia. 

  • Community Award 
  • BC Reconciliation Award 
  • Indigenous Business Award 
  • Polygon Award in First Nations Art 
  • Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design 

Together, these awards recognize outstanding achievement in community service, reconciliation, Indigenous business excellence, cultural artistic practice and applied art and design. 

Why Recognition Matters 

Recognition is about far more than receiving an award. 

When someone is nominated, their story is shared. Their work is celebrated. Their impact reaches beyond the people they serve every day and inspires others to contribute to their own communities. 

Award recipients often describe the experience as deeply meaningful; not only because it acknowledges years of dedication, but because it shines a light on causes, cultures and communities that deserve greater visibility. 

For many recipients, recognition also opens new doors, creating opportunities to build partnerships, mentor others and expand the impact of their work. 

Their stories demonstrate that leadership is measured by the difference people make every day. 

Your Nomination Could Change a Life 

Many award recipients say they never expected to be nominated. Often, it is a colleague, friend, community member or family member who takes the time to recognize their contributions. 

That’s why nominations matters. By taking the time to tell someone’s story, you’re helping preserve their legacy, celebrate their achievements and inspire others to make a difference. 

Nominate by February 15, 2027 

Nominations for BC Achievement’s 2027 award programs are open until February 15, 2027. 

Explore our website to learn more about each award program, past recipients and begin your nomination. Our team is available to answer questions and help guide you through the nomination process. 

Together, we can celebrate the remarkable people whose leadership, creativity and generosity make British Columbia a stronger, more vibrant place to live. 

Let’s work together to #RecognizeRemarkable. 

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

Celebrate an Evening of First Nations Art, Culture and Community 

Posted on by bcachievement

Some evenings stay with you long after they’ve ended, and the Polygon Award in First Nations Art celebration is one of them. 

On Tuesday, November 24, we invite you to join us at The Roundhouse in Vancouver for an evening that brings together artists, families, friends, collectors, supporters and community members to celebrate this year’s recipients of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art. Purchase your tickets here.

For $150, your ticket includes dinner and an opportunity to experience the incredible artistry and stories of the award recipients in an atmosphere grounded in cultural respect, tradition and celebration. 

The evening begins with time to wander through an exhibition of the recipients’ work, reconnect with familiar faces and meet new ones. During the celebration, you’ll experience the premiere of beautifully produced short films that introduce each artist and offer a glimpse into their creative journey, inspiration and connection to culture. Over dinner, we’ll honour the recipients whose work continues to strengthen, preserve and reimagine First Nations artistic traditions for future generations. 

One of the most memorable parts of the evening is the sense of community in the room. Artists, Elders, supporters, partners and guests from across the province come together not only to celebrate extraordinary achievements, but also to recognize the important role that First Nations art plays in sharing stories, building understanding and strengthening culture. 

Whether you’ve attended before or are joining us for the first time, we hope you’ll be part of this special gathering. 

Event Details 

Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2026 
Location: The Roundhouse, Vancouver 
Tickets: $150 

We look forward to welcoming you for an inspiring evening celebrating the artists whose work continues to enrich British Columbia and beyond. 

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

Subscribe To ELEVATE

Receive monthly program information, alumni updates, and news about upcoming events.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.