BC Achievement 2024 Indigenous Business Award of Distinction Recipient Robert J. Dennis Sr. Emchayiik

Photo: Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik), 2024 Indigenous Business Award of Distinction recipient

Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik) is a distinguished leader who exemplifies the essence of the Indigenous Business (IBA) Award of Distinction, which he received last month at the 16th annual IBA Gala Dinner. Having dedicated his life to fostering Indigenous business activities for his Nation and with a career spanning decades, Robert has played a pivotal role in advancing the economic and political landscape of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN).   

Serving as elected Chief Councillor for HFN from 1995 to 2011 and again from 2015 until his final term in June 2023, Robert’s leadership has been marked by a commitment to the prosperity and self-determination of his people. Prior to his tenure as Chief Councillor, Robert spent 12 years as a Councillor and three years as Band Manager, laying the groundwork for the significant achievements that would follow.   

As HFNs Chief Negotiator for 14 years, Robert spearheaded the implementation of the Maa-Nulth modern treaty in 2011, a landmark achievement that has allowed the Nation to benefit from self-government and transition from a rights-based discourse to one centered on economic reconciliation. His vision for a stronger future is rooted in an economic development and business-based agenda, steering away from entitlement and towards sustainable progress.   

Beyond his political service, Robert’s background as a fisherman and logger provides him with a profound understanding of resource management in his Territory. This hands-on experience fuelled his drive to learn from the past and embrace a more inclusive approach to achieving shared goals. Robert states “We can’t worry about what happened in the past. We can learn from the past, but we can’t worry about it. We can’t blame people for what happened, we can’t blame other jurisdictions, we can’t blame other things outside of our Nation. We can only focus on what we have inside of our Nation and take it step by step.” He is committed to forging innovative and unique partnerships with businesses, believing that collaboration is key to unlocking new opportunities for the HFN.   

Robert embodies the HFN Sacred Principles: ʔiisaak – Greater Respect; ʔuuʔałuk – Taking Care Of; and Hišuk ma c̕awak – Everything is One. His perfect combination of vision, tenacity, and courage has made him an exemplary leader who continues to inspire and create lasting impacts in his community. In his own words, Robert says “I always say, rather than complain about it, what are you going to do about it? What can you do to change it? If there’s a plan that needs to be developed, do it. If there’s a capital investment that’s needed and if it’s viable do it. If it’s worthwhile business opportunity that’s worth building just do it.”  

His work stands as a testament to the transformative power of economic reconciliation.   

Watch the short film produced by BC Achievement on the powerful work of Indigenous Business Award of Distinction Recipient 2024 Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik). 

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

Celebrating functional art through the 2024 Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design recipients 

The 20th annual Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design will be celebrated in an award presentation and reception on Thursday, November 21! This award celebrates talented British Columbians who create exceptional functional art and design, from furniture and fashion to ceramics and jewellery, impacting our daily lives and strengthening the province’s creative economy. 

Join the Celebration 

BC Achievement is hosting a public presentation and reception to honour these talented creators on November 21. Tickets are available for $50 per person, so don’t miss this chance to connect with BC’s vibrant art and design community. Each awardee will be featured in short films highlighting their creative journeys and accomplishments. 

If you can’t attend, stop by the free exhibition at The Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver from November 18 to 24. This exhibit will feature both the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design recipients and the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art awardees. 

As Walter Pela, BC Achievement Foundation board chair, has expressed to the awardees, “Your dedication and creativity enrich our daily lives and elevate the cultural and economic fabric of our province. By celebrating your achievements, we highlight the essential role that art and design play in shaping our world.” 

Meet the 2024 Awardees 

This year’s recipients showcase remarkable talent and vision in their fields: 

Meghan Weeks – Jewellery, Vancouver – Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist 
Pam Baker – Fashion, West Vancouver 
Robin DuPont – Ceramics, Winlaw 
Brent Comber – Furniture, North Vancouver – Award of Distinction

Chosen by an independent jury of experts, including industry leaders from Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Western Living magazine, and past award recipients, these artists and designers represent the best in applied art and design. 

The foundation thanks the Sam Carter award donors, sponsors and community partners, including BC Ferries, Denbigh Fine Art Services, and The Roundhouse, whose collective support helps bring these awards to life. 

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

Celebrate excellence and meet the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art recipients Nov 19 @ The Roundhouse

The BC Achievement Foundation recently announced the talented recipients of the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art. The annual program celebrates exceptional contributions to First Nations art across traditional, contemporary, and media-based practices, recognizing artists who bring their culture to life through their creativity. 

Join the Celebration 

BC Achievement is hosting a ticketed award ceremony and dinner on Tuesday, November 19 at The Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver. Each artist will be celebrated with a short film highlighting their achievements. Tickets are available now—don’t miss this chance to celebrate these incredible artists! 

If you can’t make it to the event, there will be a free public exhibition showcasing the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design Award recipients. The exhibit will be open from November 18 to 24 at The Roundhouse, offering a unique opportunity to see these artists’ work up close. 

Each year, the First Nations Art program highlights artists whose work resonates deeply within their communities and beyond. As Walter Pela, BC Achievement Foundation Chair, expressed, “Your exceptional artistry, innovation, and dedication are remarkable. Your journey enhances cultural expression and strengthens the enduring legacy of First Nations art in the province.” 

Now in its 18th year, the program is a tribute to those who honour their craft, maintain cultural connections, and inspire others to explore their creative paths. The recipients of the 2024 Polygon Award include: 

Stephanie Anderson, Witsuwit’en, Terrace – Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist 
Kelly Cannell, Musqueam, Vancouver 
Andy Everson, K’omoks, Courtenay 

James Hart, 7IDANsuu, Haida, of Haida Gwaii will receive the Award of Distinction, an honour decided in consultation with community leaders and the BC Achievement board. 

Meet the Jury  

This year’s recipients were selected by a panel of past awardees, including Shawn Hunt (Heiltsuk), Maynard Johnny Jr. (Coast Salish / Kwakwaka’wakw), and Lisa Hageman Yahgujanaas (Haida), guided by advisors Connie Watts and Brenda Crabtree. 

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art is made possible through the support of Vancouver-based Polygon Homes, with additional sponsorship from TD and community partners: BC Ferries, Denbigh Fine Art Services, and The Roundhouse

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

Happy #NonProfitDay! Understanding how BC Achievement drives real change 

Photo: Cathryn Wilson, Executive Director, BC Achievement Foundation

As a non-profit, BC Achievement Foundation is proud to celebrate and support the amazing organizations building stronger, more resilient communities across BC. From advancing arts and culture to environmental and social progress, non-profits are driving real change and positive impact across our province.  

if you’re interested in what it looks like to grow a foundation and stay connected to the community you serve, you’re going to love this conversation on the Discovery Pod podcast episode featuring our very own Cathryn Wilson, BC Achievement’s Executive Director! 

Interviewer Doug Nelson (President and Manager, The Discovery Group) starts by noting that BC Achievement Foundation is an unique organization both in its purpose and its structure and there’s a lot that people can learn from how Cathryn and her colleagues do their work and serve their purpose. 

Cathryn shares her insights into the foundation’s journey and the importance of storytelling. “The foundation was started over two decades ago so we’re just entering our 21st year. Our job is to serve the people of British Columbia and to tell their stories – we’re in the business the storytelling. We lift people up, we shine a light on the work that they are doing, and we do so with the intent to inspire others. It goes beyond just telling the stories of excellence; it’s so that others can see themselves in these stories and follow these leads of these remarkable British Columbians.” 

From discussing how leadership plays a pivotal role in uplifting communities, to growing a team, to fostering inclusion and recognition, this conversation delves into the strategies that have helped BC Achievement drive impactful change and inspire excellence while strengthening communities across the province. 

To hear more about BC Achievement’s work and mission through the words of Cathryn Wilson, listen to https://thediscoverygroup.ca/the-discovery-pod-podcast/ 

BC Achievement is honouring BC’s community heroes and building a legacy of excellence. Here’s to the non-profits shaping a brighter future for us all. #BCNonprofits #NonProfitDay  

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

How partnerships are advancing reconciliation efforts in British Columbia 

Photo: Detailed image of BC Reconciliation paddle designed by Jamie Gentry, 2022 Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist

For nearly two decades, BC Achievement has been dedicated to recognizing and elevating excellence 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 new areas of excellence, particularly in the field of reconciliation. One such partnership is with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, which has been instrumental in the creation and advancement of the British Columbia Reconciliation Award. This award honours those who, through deep respect and understanding, are advancing reconciliation in our province. 

Reconciliation is not just a word; it is a shared mission deeply embedded in BC Achievement’s values and programming. The BC Reconciliation Award, launched in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC, represents this mission. Since the beginning of the Honourable Janet Austin’s mandate, reconciliation has been one of Her Honour’s top priorities, and she has actively promoted public awareness around the need for continued efforts toward healing and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. 

The award takes inspiration from the vision of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], the 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and founder of the BC Reconciliation Award. His red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, symbolizes the journey of reconciliation. As he aptly puts it, “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” if we are to move forward. This powerful metaphor speaks to the collective effort required to address the wounds of colonialism and build a more equitable future for all. 

The creation of the BC Reconciliation Award itself was guided by members of the organizing committee, alongside Honourable Steven Point, to ensure that it reflects the knowledge, culture, and wisdom of Indigenous peoples. It is a fitting representation of the shared journey of reconciliation, which involves recognizing the past, taking responsibility for its impacts, and making tangible efforts to heal. 

True reconciliation strengthens relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. It requires us to recognize the enduring legacy of colonial injustices and take bold, positive actions to foster understanding, healing, and solidarity. Meaningful change comes from sustained commitment and collaboration—a value that lies at the heart of the partnership between BC Achievement and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC. 

As we prepare to announce the 2024 BC Reconciliation Awardees, we reflect on the lessons learned from previous years. The work of these inspiring leaders continues to teach us how to paddle in the same canoe, working together toward a more inclusive and equitable future for British Columbia. 

To learn more about the BC Reconciliation Award and the incredible work being done by past recipients, visit the BC Achievement website. Stay tuned for the 2024 announcement, as we continue to highlight the exceptional individuals and communities advancing reconciliation in our province. 

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

Join us at an exhibition celebrating First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design awardees 

A public art exhibition is a space for shared knowledge, dialogue, and community connection. Starting on Monday, November 18, BC Achievement is honoured to host an exhibition showcasing the remarkable works of the 2024 recipients of its two annual art programs: the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design

Since its inception in 2006, the Polygon Award in First Nations Art has honoured the intersection of art, culture, and tradition within First Nations communities. The award recognizes artistic excellence in both traditional and contemporary visual arts by First Nations artists, fostering an authentic space for community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling. This program ensures that rich traditions are passed on to younger generations and shared with a broader audience throughout British Columbia. To date, the award has recognized the incredible work of 99 outstanding First Nations artists. 

Similarly, the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design (formerly the Carter Wosk Award) has highlighted the exceptional work of artists and designers whose functional art enhances daily life while enriching the province’s cultural and economic landscape. The award celebrates British Columbians whose innovative contributions to applied art and design make a meaningful impact on how we live and interact with our world. So far, this program has honored over 87 talented artists and designers, each contributing to the cultural fabric of BC. 

This exhibition offers a powerful platform to showcase the artistic talent of these awardees and elevate the conversation around art, culture, and innovation in British Columbia.  

We invite you to experience the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design awardees’ works at a public exhibition held at The Roundhouse in Vancouver. The exhibition will run from Monday, November 18 to Sunday, November 24, open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, with special hours on Tuesday and Thursday, when it will close at 12 pm. 

Stay tuned for the upcoming announcement of the awardees later this month on BC Achievement’s website and social media channels. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the incredible talent and creativity of BC’s artists! 

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

Celebrate Indigenous Excellence: Watch the 2024 Indigenous Business Award Gala Live 

Photo: 2024 IBA Recipient, Ahous Adventures

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala, a night of celebration and inspiration as we honour the year’s exceptional Indigenous entrepreneurs!

As we gather for this annual showcase of Indigenous business excellence, the 2024 IBA Gala promises to be an evening full of recognition, success stories, and meaningful connections. Indigenous innovation continues to drive economic growth and cultural resilience, and this event offers a powerful platform to celebrate these achievements while fostering partnerships across industries. 

The evening will bring together 600 guests to celebrate the awardees of the 2024 IBA program, recognizing the businesses that have demonstrated perseverance, creativity, and leadership in their fields. For those unable to attend, the event will be livestreamed on BC Achievement’s website ensuring that everyone can take part in this night of celebration. Gather your family and friends and create a viewing night! 

The excitement doesn’t end there! Starting October 8, BC Achievement will release eight short films, one on each of the IBA Awardees, showcasing their incredible journeys, challenges, and aspirations. These films capture the spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurship and provide a closer look at the impact these businesses have on their communities and beyond. These short films will be available for free on BC Achievement’s website and YouTube channel, making them easily accessible to anyone interested in learning more about the inspiring individuals being honoured. 

Join us online for the IBA Gala and be part of a night celebrating the leaders shaping the future of Indigenous business. 

Mark your calendars for October 7 and October 8. Whether you’re watching live from the comfort of your home or catching the films on demand, you’re in for a night of inspiration and celebration as we honour the Indigenous entrepreneurs who are driving change and shaping the future. 

Tune in to the livestream on BC Achievement’s website at 6:30 PM on October 7 and be part of this incredible event! 

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

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day 

September 30, 2024, marks the continuation of a significant tradition for Canada—the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed in conjunction with Orange Shirt Day. Both initiatives are dedicated to recognizing and reflecting on the painful legacy of residential schools and committing to building a future rooted in understanding, reconciliation, and respect for Indigenous peoples. 

Since its official designation in 2021, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation has provided an important opportunity to acknowledge the tragic legacy of Canada’s residential school system. It is a day for honouring survivors, the children who never made it home, and the ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma. Importantly, it is a day for dialogue—a chance to engage in conversations about how Canadians can collectively move forward towards healing and understanding. 

In support of these efforts, the British Columbia Reconciliation Award continues to recognize exceptional leadership in advancing reconciliation. First launched in 2020 by BC Achievement, in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC, this award is given to those who have demonstrated integrity, respect, and a commitment to reconciliation through their work. Cloy-e-iis, Judith Sayers, a member of the BC Achievement Foundation board, emphasized that reconciliation is possible “if there are willing people working towards a vision of reconciliation.” 

The award takes inspiration from the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], the 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. His iconic carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, displayed at the BC Legislature, symbolizes the collective journey towards reconciliation. His words resonate as strongly today as when he spoke to them: “We need to create a better understanding amongst all people that we are in the same canoe. No matter where you are from, we all need to paddle together.” 

Alongside the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots movement initiated in 2013 by Chief Fred Robbins, a former student of the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in Williams Lake, BC. The day draws its meaning from the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day of residential school. It has since become a powerful symbol of the loss of culture, identity, and dignity suffered by Indigenous children who attended these schools. Wearing orange on September 30 serves as a visible commitment to remembering the children, and the phrase #EveryChildMatters continues to call attention to the importance of recognizing each child’s value, identity, and rights. 

By recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, we take a step forward on the path toward reconciliation. This day is not only for remembrance but for learning, reflecting, and renewing our commitment to a more just and inclusive future. Let’s continue to paddle together—towards understanding, healing, and unity. 

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

BC Achievement Award Programs: Year-Round Nominations Now Open! 

Exciting news! Nominations for all five BC Achievement award programs are now open year-round! This change means you can recognize and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of BC’s entrepreneurs, community leaders, and artists at any time throughout the year. Whether it’s acknowledging innovative Indigenous business leaders or honouring community-driven achievements, this is your opportunity to highlight remarkable people from across the province whenever you see fit. 

Nominate Anytime 

No longer confined to a short nomination window, you now have the flexibility to submit nominations 24/7, all year long! This continuous timeline allows you to nominate when it’s most relevant and convenient for you, ensuring that no extraordinary achievement goes unnoticed. 

Important Deadlines 

For the current year’s award programs, any nominations submitted before February 15, 2025 will be considered by the jury panel. If your nomination is completed after this deadline, it will automatically roll over to the following year’s consideration. To make sure your nominee is in the running for the upcoming awards, keep an eye out for reminders during our Call for Nominations campaign from January 1 to February 15 each year. Nominating is straightforward and fully online at bcachievement.com

Helpful Tips for Nominating 

To help make your nomination process smooth and successful, we provide a range of resources. These include advice on crafting a strong nominator statement, selecting impactful images, and using YouTube videos or news articles to strengthen your nominee’s case. And if you ever need assistance, the BC Achievement team is just a click away! 

Award Programs to Recognize Remarkable British Columbians 

Nominations are accepted across all five of BC Achievement’s annual programs, each highlighting the accomplishments of individuals, groups, and organizations in various fields: 

  • Indigenous Business Award – Celebrates excellence in Indigenous-owned businesses, with categories including Business of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Community-owned Business, and Business Partnership of the Year. 
  • Polygon Award in First Nations Art – Recognizes artistic excellence in both traditional and contemporary visual arts by First Nations artists. 
  • Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design – Honours outstanding achievements in functional art and design. 
  • Community Award – Celebrates excellence and inspiring contributions in community service and leadership. 
  • BC Reconciliation Award – Recognizes individuals, groups, and organizations advancing the principles of reconciliation. 

If you know someone whose work deserves recognition, don’t miss the February 15, 2025 deadline to have them considered for next year’s award programs. 

Join Us in Celebrating Remarkable People 

Nominations are open year-round at bcachievement.com. Get involved, celebrate excellence in BC, and nominate!  

Don’t wait—celebrate excellence today! 

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

Support Indigenous entrepreneurs and get your tickets to the IBA Gala 

Mark your calendars for the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala Dinner as we celebrate the 2024 IBA recipients! This award presentation will take place at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Monday, October 7, 2024, starting at 5:30 pm. 

As an annual event that showcases business excellence among Indigenous entrepreneurs, the 2024 IBA Gala promises to be an inspiring evening filled with recognition, achievement, and collaboration. The celebration of Indigenous innovation and success continues to highlight the immense potential within the Indigenous economy while fostering connections that inspire growth, solidarity, and creative partnerships across all sectors. 

This year, we will honour seven outstanding Indigenous businesses that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and resilience in their respective industries. Additionally, the 2024 Award of Distinction recipient will be celebrated for their exceptional contribution to Indigenous business and community leadership. Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of these inspiring awardees: 

Young Entrepreneur of the Year: 
Mo Dawson Creative, Victoria 

Business of the Year – one-to-two person enterprise: 
Rad Relish Co., West Kelowna 

Business of the Year – three-to-ten person enterprise: 
AshFireWear, Cranbrook 

Business of the Year – 11 + person enterprise: 
KICA Contracting Ltd., Dease Lake 

Community-owned Business of the Year – one entity: 
Ahous Adventures, Tofino 

Community-owned Business of the Year – two or more entities: 
Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation, West Vancouver 

Business Partnership of the Year: 
Seven Generations Environmental Services, Mission 

Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement: 
Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik), Anacla 

Tickets for the Gala are available online, and with this event selling out every year, it’s recommended to secure your seats early. This evening celebrates the success of Indigenous entrepreneurs while providing a platform for individuals and corporations to show their support for Indigenous businesses and invest in the future of visionary leaders. The IBA Gala also inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their ambitions and shape a future filled with opportunity. 

Join us as we toast to the trailblazers, visionaries and changemakers who represent the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship. Celebrate their stories, be inspired by their success, and become part of this journey toward a more inclusive, diverse, and prosperous tomorrow. 

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