Category: Blog

2024 Community Awardees Celebrated 

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The Community Award (COM) program recognizes extraordinary British Columbians who build better, stronger and more resilient communities. 

On May 8, 2024, the recipients of the 21st annual Community Award were celebrated at a formal presentation ceremony held in Victoria, BC in the presence of Her Honour, the Honourable Janet Austin, OBC, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia,  

Emceed by BC Achievement Board Chair, Walter Pela, with citations delivered by alumna T,łalisam Kim van der Woerd (2018 Mitchell Award of Distinction and 2018 Indigenous Business Awardee), the ceremony was a powerful and emotional testament to the strength of community from throughout the province. Each awardee is an outstanding British Columbian whose dedication, leadership and actions inspire the next generation. 

Marcus Mosely, this year’s Mitchell Award of Distinction recipient, speaking on behalf of the 2024 recipients, delighted all guests with a presentation that filled the room with musical inspiration sharing: “Compassion, empathy and a willingness to meet people where they are motivates each of us. And kindness and a desire to be of service is our common goal.” 

For the first time in its two-decade history, the 2024 award program recognized Emerging Leaders* as a separate category, highlighting the contributions of young people in this province. Walter Pela remarked that “all these exceptional individuals embody the essence of leadership, dedication, and selflessness, serving as beacons of inspiration. Communities thrive when individuals generously share their talents, passion, and time in service to others, and these awardees exemplify the transformative impact of such contributions.” 

This year’s recipients selected by an independent jury include: 

Troy MacBeth Abromaitis, Richmond 
Prof. Nemkumar Banthia, Vancouver 
Devon Black, Victoria 
Earl Blacklock, Parksville 
Robin Dawes, Williams Lake 
Jane Devji, Delta 
Doreen & Wayne Hewitt, Salt Spring Island 
Christopher Lee, Vancouver* 
Siân Lewis, Kamloops 
K. Brian McConaghy, Delta 
Connally McDougall, Vancouver* 
Marcus Mosely, North Vancouver 
Coralie Nairn, Vernon 
Alison O’Toole, Prince Rupert 
Jazz Pabla, West Kelowna 
Len Pierre, Surrey 
Rishika Selvakumar, Richmond* 
Wendy Toyer, Richmond 
Mary Trentadue, New Westminster 
Janna Wale, Gitanmaax/Hazelton* 

Watch the recording of the event here.

Click here to view photos from the presentation ceremony. 

BC Achievement thanks the nominators for their commitment to acknowledging those who make a positive impact in our community and serve as inspiring models for others to follow. And to the award recipients, their journey with BC Achievement is just beginning! 

Together, we tell the stories of what makes our province, and its communities, achieve excellence and, in doing so, inspire change. 

Nominations for the 2025 program are open and throughout the year at bcachievement.com until February 15, 2025 

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

Celebrating Excellence: The Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design 

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Artists and designers have always brought people together through their art. Recognizing and celebrating their contributions builds vibrant and inclusive communities and contributes towards the cultural economy. The Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design serve to highlight exceptional talent and skill within the artistic community. As the nomination deadline of June 30 approaches, we encourage everyone to consider nominating deserving artists and designers for these two awards. #nominatenowbc 

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art, established to honour outstanding First Nations artists, celebrates those who have significantly contributed to the continuity and evolution of First Nations art through their practices. This award acknowledges artistic excellence of established artists and recognizes the efforts of emerging artists in their respective fields. The award aims to highlight the rich traditions and contemporary practices of BC’s First Nations, promoting greater understanding and appreciation of their contributions to the arts. 

The Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design celebrates innovation and excellence in applied arts and design. Named after renowned artist and educator Sam Carter, the award honours individuals whose work exemplifies the highest standards of creativity and craftsmanship in fields such as ceramics, textiles, furniture, jewellery, and industrial design. The Applied Art + Design award recognizes and support artists and designers who push the boundaries of their disciplines. The award aims to celebrate those who combine aesthetic excellence with practical functionality, creating works that enhance everyday life while showcasing outstanding craftsmanship and originality. 

Through the extraordinary contributions of awardees like these, BC Achievement continues to advance its quest to elevate excellence, share success, and inspire change. 

This fall recipients of the 2024 awards will be honoured with a short film highlighting their accomplishments. These films will be premiered at the Award presentation ceremony, where recipients will receive their award and cash prize. Awardees will also be celebrated  through an online campaign, #shinethelightbc. 
 
​​In addition, BC Achievement is proud to present a combined exhibition showcasing the recipients for both the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design.

As we approach the nomination deadline of June 30, we encourage you to consider the artists and designers in your community who exemplify excellence, creativity, and dedication. Nominating someone for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art or the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design is a meaningful way to honour their contributions and support their future endeavours. 

To nominate, please visit bcachievement.com and complete the nomination form. Let’s celebrate and support the artists and designers who inspire us with their work and creativity. 

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

Tens of Thousands of Years of Intergenerational Knowledge 

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Photo: Book Cover, Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese

June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. 

It is a month to reflect on Indigenous world views, epistemologies, educational and governance systems, and the impacts they have on economic reconciliation.

Take time to learn about the vast intergenerational knowledge Indigenous peoples have accumulated. Consider that this knowledge is imbedded with over tens of thousands of years of learning the landscapes, water ways, flora and fauna, and imagine how this accumulation of knowledge can spark innovation and creativity in your own world view. 

The best way to do that is to listen to First Nations, Inuit and Métis through their own voices, by reading a book, watching a film or video, or listening to music created by Indigenous people. 

 Here are some resources for a month of learning: 

1. Unbroken  by Angela Sterritt 
3. Indian Horse  by Richard Wagamese 
4. Potlatch as Pedagogy  by Sarah Florence Davidson & Robert Davidson 
5. When We Were Alone by David Roberston 
6. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. by Bob Joseph

Here are a few ways to be involved: 

  1. Educate yourself on the history of the land where you live, work and play. 
  2. Learn what it means to be an accomplice and participate in allyship from an Indigenous lens. 
  3. Engage with Indigenous businesses and their economies to support growth. 

      Here is a call to action from Indigenous Tourism BC: 

      This National Indigenous History Month, we call upon all Canadians to actively seek firsthand experiences, educate themselves about living Indigenous cultures, and find ways to contribute to the wellness of Indigenous families, lands, and communities in BC – not just in June, but throughout the year. 

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

      The Creative Journey: Insights from program alumnus John Fluevog 

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      Photo: John Fluevog, BC Achievement program alumnus

      Recently, we had the privilege of interviewing John Fluevog, renowned shoe designer and Award of Distinction recipient of the 2008 Creative Art Award, now known as the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design. This conversation was a highlight as we gear up the call for nominations for the award program and launch its new name in honour of the late Sam Carter. 

      John revealed some insights by sharing his story as a successful artist while providing advice for aspiring creatives.  

      The impact of the award 

      John reflected on receiving the Applied Art + Design in 2008 sharing that, “I felt honoured that we collectively recognize how important the arts are in our community”. 

      John continues to support efforts that inspire participation in the creative economy, believing it is a great idea to honour artists through the award program. 

      Standing the test of time 

      As a Vancouver resident, who lives part time on the Sunshine Coast, John acknowledges that his artistic practice is influenced by his home. “Vancouver is a wide-open field to do what one wants to do. You don’t have to fit a certain mold to make yourself known like you might have to in cities like London or New York. I guess you could say I’m a big fish in a small pond.” This environment allowed him the freedom to innovate without the pressures that come with larger, more competitive markets. “Vancouver provides a supportive community that has fuelled my business,” he shares. This intrinsic drive, combined with external support, has been key to his longevity and success. 

      Discovering Creativity 

      Interestingly, John’s journey into the creative world was one of self-discovery and he offers the following advice: “I didn’t think I was creative. My story is about finding out that I am. My message to others is that they are far more creative than they think they are. Their uniqueness is a gift. We all need to embrace our creativity because it is the gel that holds our society together.”  

      The Role of Arts in Society 

      John believes passionately in the transformative power of the arts that ensure communities thrive. “Creative people shape the heart and soul of a community. While others build and manage, it’s the creative individuals who bring vibrancy and cohesion. That’s why I’m thrilled that BC Achievement recognizes this through programs that encourage people to excel creatively. This recognition is crucial, especially in a society often driven by metrics and tangible outputs,” he says. 

      John hopes to see more community engagement among artists, underlining that “Artists are seers; they can envision things differently. We need to work together and have an influence on policies and city planning. The arts are crucial for the heart and soul of our communities.”  

      He also sees a role for the arts in supporting the individuals living on the streets in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. “On the street I see people carving, I see people drawing little things, and they may be in a stupor that is seriously dictated by mental health issues, yet they’re doing creative things in their own way,” he says. “Wouldn’t it be nice if we could harness that somehow and give them a sense of purpose. We all need a sense of purpose.” 

      Applied Art + Design as a Career Choice 

      When asked about the future of the creative field and advice for those contemplating a career in the creative arts rather than a more traditional path like finance, John offers a nuanced perspective. “Everything is creative. You can be creative in finance just as much as in traditional arts. Our daily lives are stories, and that’s our art. We are all a personal brand, and how we interact with the world is a form of creativity.” 

      Staying Inspired and Creative 

      What keeps John going is his commitment to creativity and the relentless pursuit of that challenge keeps him grounded and fulfilled. “Creating is my happy place. If I’m not making something, I wonder what I’m doing here. I try to make it a daily practice.”  

      Forever the creative mind, in his spare time, John enjoys building and customizing vintage boats and cars. “It’s like returning to childhood. I used to love playing with cars and digging in the dirt. Now, at 76, I’m still doing that, and it’s wonderful.”  

      John’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of supporting the arts. His advice to aspiring creatives is clear: embrace your uniqueness, stay true to your creative impulses, and remember that creativity exists in all aspects of life. 

      The inaugural Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design program celebrated its 20th anniversary launch at the John Fluevog Shoe store in Vancouver on May 30, saluting the creative economy and all those who work within it. Thank you to John Fluevog and staff for hosting BC Achievement, supporting applied artists and designers and continuing the enduring legacy of the late Sam Carter. 

      Nominations for this year’s award will be accepted through BCAF’s website until June 30. Recipients will be announced in October, with an exhibit of their selected works taking place November 18 – 24 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre in downtown Vancouver. 

      For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation and its award programs, visit bcachievement.com.  

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

      Apply now for BC Achievement’s art award programs – open until June 30

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      BC Achievement’s art award programs empower extraordinary individuals by providing deserved recognition and elevation from their peers and communities. 

      It is a celebration of the province’s growing and critical creative economy. Nominate now and help shine the light on excellence in BC! 

       Offered year round until June 30, nominations for artists are being accepted for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design programs. 

      Applying for an award serves as a platform to communicate an artist’s work, vision and creativity. The process invites an opportunity for critical artistic reflection while exposing artists and designers to a wider audience. Self-nominations are accepted and encouraged. Recipients receive a cash prize and a film outlining their artistic journey, they participate in an exhibition showcasing their art, and their story is celebrated through province-wide recognition channels. There are so many reasons to nominate! 

      The Polygon Award in First Nations Art, now in its 18th year, recognizes BC First Nations artists for excellence in traditional, contemporary or media art and includes those who have demonstrated a commitment to their art practice; have accumulated a body of work; and who are recognized in their communities as artists. Up to four artists will be selected to receive the award in different categories. 

      Nominations are invited from throughout the province from BC First Nations artists who practice traditional or contemporary visual art in fields such as, but not limited to, carving, photography, beading, weaving, jewellery, painting, masks, sculpture, stonework, printmaking, basketry, textiles, and media art. 

      “All those who have received these awards…to see me there, is really quite an honour. It’s really important to tell our story because that’s who we are – we are storytellers.”  2023 Award Recipient, Klatle-bhi 

      The second art program with a deadline of June 30 is the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design which, since 2004, has been celebrating British Columbians who excel in creating functional art. The program recognizes artists who work in mediums such as furniture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, weaving, glass, fashion, to industrial design. Up to four artists will be selected to receive the award. 

      “I’ve always been making, ever since I was a child. That’s what got me through so many things in life…was making.”  2023 Awardee, Bridget Catchpole 

      Nominations for this year’s art awards will be accepted through BC Achievement’s website until June 30. Recipients will be announced in October, with an exhibit of their selected works taking place November 18 – 24 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre in downtown Vancouver. 

      For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation and its award programs, visit bcachievement.com.  

      #nominatenowbc 

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

      IBA Program Director, Angela Marston, on driving change

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      Photo: Satuts Stsuhwum Angela Marston, IBA program director

      With the 2024 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program nominations closing on May 31– we took a few minutes to chat with its director, Satuts Stsuhwum (North wind strong and clear) Angela Marston. Here’s our Q&A:

      What excites you the most about your job now that you’re almost 24 months into it?

      What truly excites me is witnessing the incredible work being done across First Nations and Indigenous communities. Our province-wide reach allows us to hear and share stories of the positive impact individuals and communities are making through their business endeavours. Too often, the focus is on negative depictions of Indigenous peoples. This program helps reframe the narrative by highlighting these individuals in a positive light, showcasing their successes and contributions.

      It’s particularly inspiring for me and my colleagues @bcachievement to see so many First Nations and Indigenous women thriving as business owners and leaders. This is encouraging not just for my daughters, nieces, and future grandchildren, but for all young Indigenous women. Having these strong role models is vital for envisioning and driving change.

      Do you see evidence of the IBA program driving change from your experience to date?

      Absolutely! One standout example is 2023 IBA recipient Marcia Turner, whose business transformation post-recognition has been phenomenal. Here is a quote from Marcia, “Receiving the IBA award transformed my thinking about how I do my work and has planted the seed that I have what it takes to grow my business. Importantly, the IBA has given me exposure and it put me on the radar to be noticed – it’s raised my profile, and I have so much deep gratitude for this. But being noticed is only part of being a successful business. The IBA Gala opened my eyes to a whole world of opportunities, it was inspirational to see all the other recipients, hear their stories, witness our celebration and network with like-minded people in the entrepreneurial business world.” Additionally, I’m frequently asked to connect awardees with opportunities. BC Achievement’s extensive, province-wide network helps us expand our reach and impact, continually fostering connections and facilitating growth. We serve as a resource for others to access our incredible alumni community throughout the provincial.

      Can you speak to the difference your role is making, given that you are leading the program as its first Indigenous director, and as an artist and entrepreneur?

      Having an Indigenous person lead an Indigenous program fundamentally changes its execution. Rooting the program in Indigenous values requires cultural understanding that goes beyond surface-level appreciation. For instance, understanding the protocols of a blanketing ceremony is crucial, especially when you’re on another’s territory. Many people I interact with express how significant it is to see an Indigenous woman in this leadership role. It’s empowering for my nieces and for all young Indigenous girls to see role models in such positions.

      BC Achievement has a forward-thinking model for reconciliation and has ensured for the past two decades of its existence that it delivers with strong Indigenous leadership on its foundation board and IBA advisory panel. This ensures our program is deeply connected to and guided by Indigenous values and perspectives.

      What challenges are you excited about tackling in the year ahead?

      I’m looking forward to providing more support to nominators, diversifying our sponsorship base (especially with tech companies), and building out our alumni program, despite the struggle to secure funding. These challenges are opportunities to strengthen and expand our program’s impact.

      What would you like to say to potential nominators and nominees out there? Why should they nominate?

      Uplifting Indigenous business owners as role models is crucial for the success of Indigenous communities everywhere. We need these positive stories and role models to inspire and drive change. The nomination process can be cathartic for business owners as it allows them to take five and take stock of their business – where they are and how they want to take their enterprise to the next level.

      What program phase do you enjoy the most?

      It’s hard to choose just one! The Gala, which is part of the recognition phase, is an incredibly inspiring event, and reading through the nominations is always uplifting. While the Gala involves a lot of hard work, it’s deeply rewarding to celebrate the recipients and, to see the room filled with Indigenous entrepreneurs and those honouring them is life-changing. As Geena Jackson says, “It is truly the ‘Oscars’ of Indigenous Business in BC!” I also enjoy the strategic and creative aspects of developing partnerships and planning the program throughout the year.  Seeing the program strengthen through our strategic alliances and partnerships is empowering for me and those with whom I work.

      Future aspirations?

      Collaborating with an Indigenous curriculum content developer would be amazing. The short films we produce on each awardee are truly magnificent and are a huge resource  that could serve as a great guide for teachers, enriching the educational experience with Indigenous perspectives.

      With the IBA Call for Nominations’ deadline looming large…

      Don’t miss the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the outstanding achievements within our communities. Nominate someone today and be part of this positive movement! And remember that I am here to help in anyway, don’t hesitate to reach out indigenousbusiness@bcachievement.com and #nominatenowbc!

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

      IBA profile: Marcia Turner, CEO of Daxgedim Haanak Nation Building 

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      Photo: 2023 Indigenous Business Awardee, Daxgedim Haanak’ Nation Building

      “My vision is that we are free to be Indigenous.” 

      Gitxsan entrepreneur Marcia Turner, 2023 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) recipient, is a leader focused on advocating for self-determination and self-government among Indigenous peoples across British Columbia and beyond. As CEO and founder of Daxgedim Haanak’ Nation Building her business provides Indigenous Governance, Community Development and Engagement. Marcia envisions a decolonized future where Indigenous peoples can freely embrace their culture and languages.  

      With a mission that revolves around transformation and systems change at the governance and leadership levels, Marcia works alongside Indigenous communities to amplify their voices. In her own words, Maria relays that “a lot of my work is really centred around systems change and governance and leadership level looking at ways in which we can amplify the voices of Indigenous people as well as bringing equity to Indigenous knowledge systems because there’s tremendous change that needs to be done.” 

      Her associates speak highly of the value she brings to her work. “Marcia has a warmth about her and a way of doing things that are aligned with Indigenous cultures ways of being and doing”.
      Danielle Mitchell, Associate. 

      Marcia recently shared the importance of receiving the 2023 IBA Business of the Year award: 

      It was a warm July day when my cellphone was ringing and it was a phone number that I didn’t recognize. I hesitated for a moment, unsure if I wanted to answer the phone call because it was my last day of work and I was taking a much needed break for the month of August. At the other end of the phone was Angela Marston from the BC Achievement Foundation, I’d like to set up a Zoom with you, she said. I thought it was going to be an interview. To my surprise, it was good news and I had won an Indigenous Business Award for small enterprise.  

      At the beginning of 2023, I had set my intention to take my business to the next level. At the time, I didn’t really know what it would mean. Receiving the IBA award transformed my thinking about how I do my work and has planted the seed that I have what it takes to grow my business. Importantly, the IBA has given me exposure and it put me on the radar to be noticed – it’s raised my profile, and I have so much deep gratitude for this. But being noticed is only part of being a successful business.  

      The IBA banquet opened my eyes to a whole world of opportunities, it was inspirational to see all the other recipients, hear their stories, witness our celebration and network with like-minded people in the entrepreneurial business world. The IBA inspired me to be intentional about taking my business to the next level, so afterwards, I hosted a strategic planning retreat in my home with my Associates where we dared to dream big, shared our stories, and created a vision for the future of our work and for future generations.  

      As a result, I’ve shifted away from work that I was doing, which was good work but I wanted to do more. I have now shifted towards a focus on systems change to advance the rights of Indigenous peoples. I’m honoured to be working with clients and partners who are trusting me and my team to support their work to advance reconciliation, decolonize, and uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples. IBA gave me the confidence to believe that I have an idea worth sharing and I’m now invited to speak on May 3rd at the TEDx at Royal Roads University where I will be talking about a decolonial framework I developed, a framework that is designed to cultivate relationships and create meaningful and lasting change for Indigenous Peoples. I’m excited now, to continue on this journey of growth. 

      With a TEDx talk at Royal Roads University soon under her belt, the future looks promising for Marcia and Daxgedim Haanak Nation Building. 

      Be part of it and nominate a business for the 2024 Indigenous Business Award, and submit a nomination online before May 31 at 5:00 pm. Visit this link for the IBA Nomination form.

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

      Thank you to the IBA sponsorship family 

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      A big thank you to the 2023-24 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) sponsors as we wrap up their year of commitment to the program and launch the 2024 Call for Nominations.

      These organizations support the growth of Indigenous entrepreneurship throughout the province and recognize that what’s good for the province and Indigenous entrepreneurs is good for business as well. 

      “Enbridge understands meaningful engagement and respective relationship are foundational to advancing reconciliation. We are committed to developing strategies, mechanisms and opportunities that support and nurture dialogue between Enbridge and Indigenous groups throughout the lifecycle of our projects and operations. As part of this engagement, Enbridge strives to facilitate positive and mutually beneficial financial impacts, opportunities and potential partnerships with Indigenous groups and businesses.” Enbridge, 2023 Bursary Sponsor 

      For sponsors of the IBA program, reconciliation with Indigenous communities is important to advancing relationships and understanding. 

      “We are committed to responsibly producing critical minerals, and we recognize that building strong relationships with Indigenous Peoples that help us understand each other’s perspectives and priorities is fundamental to our success. We are proud to partner with BC Achievement for Indigenous Business and Reconciliation Awards, where the excellence of Indigenous Peoples across BC is recognized, and their impactful stories are shared.” Teck, 2023 Presentation Sponsor 

      These relationships are also beneficial in supporting the work that Indigenous businesses do and helping to grow their successes.  

      “Reconciliation is a core value for Vancity, and we are committed to building authentic relationships with Indigenous communities that support their path to self-reliance, sustainability, and financial independence. Ensuring Indigenous businesses have equitable access to the capital and financial services they need, and recognizing the innovation and excellence that so many Indigenous business possess, are key to this commitment.” Vancity, 2023 Awardee Sponsor 

      We are grateful for the ongoing support from all of our IBA supporters including our partnership with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and generous sponsorship by; Enbridge, YVR, Teck, TD, Vancity, Aquilini, BC Hydro, BC Transit, CN, KPMG, New Relationship Trust, Ovintiv, Seaspan, Simpcw Resources Group, Port of Vancouver – Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, West Fraser, Dentons, FortisBC, Linde, Pacific Blue Cross, RBC, SFU Beedie School of Business, Shell, TELUS, and Trans Mountain. Thank you for recognizing the impact of Indigenous entrepreneurship in the province and for joining with BC Achievement to shine a light on business excellence! 

      We look forward to working with you again for the 2024 Indigenous Business Award program.  

      Sponsorship Opportunities can be found here.

      Nominations remain open until May 31 at 5:00 PM.

      Click here for the nomination form to #nominatenow.

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

      Nominate Now for the 2024 Indigenous Business Award program!  

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      The Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program aims to honour excellence and focuses on the successes of Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs from throughout the province. Now in its 16th annual year, the Indigenous-led program offers awardees and their supporters an authentic space to showcase their achievements and build bridges between BC’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous economies.  

      Nominations are open for the 2024 award for another four weeks! The deadline to nominate an Indigenous business is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 31, 2024.  

      Recipients will be notified in July, announced in September, and celebrated on October 7, 2024 at the annual IBA Gala.   

      The IBA Nomination form is available at the link here.

      Do you or someone you know demonstrate excellence in Indigenous business? Here’s how to know if the business qualifies for the IBA. 

      NOMINEE ELIGIBILITY:  
        
      An eligible nominee must be a business that:  

      • Is at least 51% Indigenous owned and operated (First Nations, Métis or Inuit)  
      • Is based in British Columbia  
      • Has been in operation for a minimum of two years  

      A business may self-nominate (i.e., apply for the Award program).  
        
      The following are ineligible to receive the Award:  

      • Government agencies and institutions  
      • Those operated or owned by BC Achievement board members  
      • Those operated or owned by jury panel members  
      • Posthumous nominations are not eligible  

      Past awardees must wait five years before reapplying unless the nature of the business has significantly changed.  

      AWARD CATEGORIES:  

      Individuals and businesses may enter in ONE category only. 

      Young Entrepreneur of the Year:  this award recognizes success by a young entrepreneur in the operation of an existing business. Nominees must be aged 35 years and under by May 31, 2024, have been in business for at least two years, and the business must be at least 51% Indigenous owned and operated (First Nations, Métis or Inuit).  

      Business of the Year (*the business must be at least 51% Indigenous-owned and operated): these awards recognize the outstanding achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs in three sub-categories:  

      • Businesses with 1-2 employees  
      • Businesses with 3-10 employees  
      • Businesses with 11+ employees 

      Community-Owned Business of the Year (*businesses must be 100% owned by the community):  this award acknowledges one or more businesses owned by a community with the intention of building a strong economic foundation for community members. There are two sub-categories for this award:  

      • Community-Owned one entity  
      • Community-Owned two more entities  

      Business Partnership of the Year (*Indigenous ownership must be at least 50%): this award recognizes a business enterprise created by two or more parties.  

      Award of Distinction: The Award of Distinction for lifetime achievement is presented to a person who, over his or her career, has made a significant difference in the Indigenous business community through his or her entrepreneurial endeavours and, in doing so, serves as a leader, role model, mentor and inspiration. The individual may be an innovator in his or her business activities, a successful entrepreneur, or an individual who has been instrumental in supporting or creating Indigenous business activities in the province.     

      Questions? Please contact indigenousbusiness@bcachievement.com – we are happy to help! #nominatenowbc

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

      MaPP: environmental sustainability of the North Pacific Coast 

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      Photo: 2021 BC Reconciliation Award recipient, Marine Plan Partnership

      The North Pacific Coast covers more than 100,000 km2  of British Columbia’s coastline, extending from northern Vancouver Island to Canada’s border with Alaska, from shore to the continental slope. The sheer scale of this coastal region is reflected in the ambitious nature of the Marine Plan Partnership, known as MaPP, a collaborative initiative between eighteen First Nations and the Province of British Columbia.  

      Established in 2011, MaPP aims to develop marine spatial plans that support both environmental sustainability and economic prosperity in the region. MaPP respects Indigenous rights and title, recognizing Indigenous peoples as stewards of the land and sea. Indigenous-led marine planning ensures that environmental sustainability is rooted in Indigenous perspectives and practices, contributing to the holistic management of marine resources. Their endeavors resulted in them receiving the 2021 BC Reconciliation Award.  

      At its core, MaPP recognizes the critical importance of environmental sustainability in managing the coastal and marine resources of the North Pacific Coast. The region is rich in biodiversity, supporting diverse ecosystems ranging from temperate rainforests to productive marine habitats. However, it also faces significant pressures from human activities such as shipping, fishing, tourism, and resource extraction. 

      One of the primary objectives of MaPP is to identify and designate areas for ecosystem protection and conservation. Through extensive consultation with Indigenous Nations, stakeholders, and scientific experts, MaPP develops marine spatial plans that establish marine protected areas (MPAs) and other conservation measures to safeguard sensitive habitats and species. 

      MaPP seeks to promote the sustainable use of marine resources, including fisheries, aquaculture, and marine transportation. By establishing zones for different activities based on ecological considerations and community priorities, MaPP aims to minimize conflicts between resource users while ensuring the long-term health and productivity of marine ecosystems. 

      In light of the growing impacts of climate change on coastal and marine environments, MaPP integrates considerations of climate resilience into its planning processes. This includes identifying areas of ecological significance, enhancing ecosystem resilience to climate stressors, and mitigating the impacts of sea-level rise and ocean acidification. 

      MaPP’s collaborative and adaptive approach to marine planning prioritizes environmental sustainability while supporting the social, cultural, and economic well-being of coastal communities. By integrating Indigenous knowledge, scientific expertise, and stakeholder engagement, MaPP strives to achieve a balance between conservation and development, ensuring that the North Pacific Coast remains healthy and resilient for generations to come. 

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