Category: Blog

Pink Shirt Day: Fostering Unity, Empathy, and Community Building

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Photo: Pink Shirt Day t-shirt, designed by 2017 First Nations Art awardee, Corey Bulpitt

The Pink Shirt Day campaign recognizes the importance of unity, inclusivity, and diversity of all people. Originating in Nova Scotia in 2007, this annual event encourages individuals to wear a pink shirt to raise awareness about the hurtful effects of bullying while promoting kindness. 

Pink Shirt Day falls on the last Wednesday of February, this year landing on February 28th. With a goal of creating a more kind, inclusive world by raising awareness and funds for anti-bullying initiatives, this movement has been adopted by schools, workplaces, and communities around the world. This collective effort underlines the consequences of bullying and empowers individuals to take a stand against it, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.  

This year’s official Pink Shirt Day t-shirt has been designed by artist, Corey Bulpitt. Corey is a 2017 recipient of BC Achievement’s First Nations Art Award. True to his First Nations heritage, Corey’s design reflects his signature graffiti style, with two gesturing hands featuring a traditional Haida face. The design serves as a welcome to others while conveying respect and friendly greetings practiced through Coast Salish and Northwest communities. Net proceeds from all sales go directly to helping children in British Columbia and Western Canada build healthy self-esteem with themselves and their peers.

Pink Shirt Day events and activities throughout the province are a vibrant reflection of British Columbians’ commitment to promoting kindness, empathy, and community building. From schools to workplaces, various initiatives take place each year to engage people in conversations about bullying and inspire positive change.  

Here are some examples of Pink Shirt Day events and activities in British Columbia: 

1. School Campaigns: 

Schools across British Columbia actively participate in Pink Shirt Day by organizing awareness campaigns and events. Students and teachers wear pink shirts, and many schools plan special assemblies, workshops, and classroom activities focused on kindness, respect, and anti-bullying messages. These initiatives help create a supportive environment that encourages open discussions about the impact of bullying. 

2. Community Workshops and Presentations: 

 Various organizations, including community groups, non-profits, and local businesses, host workshops and presentations on Pink Shirt Day. These events often feature guest speakers, psychologists, or experts in bullying prevention who share insights, strategies, and resources to address and prevent bullying in different settings. 

3. Social Media Campaigns: 

The digital realm plays a significant role in Pink Shirt Day activities. Communities in BC leverage social media platforms to spread awareness, share personal stories, and engage in discussions about the importance of kindness and empathy. Hashtags such as #PinkShirtDay and #BeKindBC gain traction, amplifying the movement’s impact and encouraging widespread participation. 

4.Pink Shirt Day Fundraisers: 

Fundraising events are a common occurrence in British Columbia, with the proceeds often supporting anti-bullying initiatives, mental health organizations, or local charities. Schools, businesses, and community groups organize events such as bake sales, charity runs, and silent auctions, creating opportunities for individuals to contribute to the cause while fostering a sense of community involvement. 

5. Corporate Participation: 

Many businesses in British Columbia actively engage in Pink Shirt Day by encouraging employees to wear pink shirts, hosting awareness sessions, and implementing anti-bullying policies in the workplace. Corporate involvement helps extend the reach of the movement beyond schools, fostering a culture of kindness and respect in professional settings. 

The movement’s impact extends beyond the symbolic act of wearing a pink shirt; it prompts individuals to examine their attitudes, challenge stereotypes, and actively work towards a culture of respect. Pink Shirt Day serves as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in creating a world free from bullying, where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals feel valued and accepted. 

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

Nurturing First Nations Art through film 

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Photo: Xwalacktun, 2023 Award of Distinction recipient, Polygon Award in First Nations Art

First Nations peoples are storytellers and so it’s an incredible honour for BC Achievement to showcase the stories of BC’s talented First Nations artists and share them through film. 

Since 2006, BC Achievement has produced a film for each artist who has received the First Nations Art recognition (that’s almost 100 artists over 17 years!). The foundation’s film-maker travels to the artist’s home, studio and community to create a short film capturing their practices and influences. 

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art program honours BC artists for excellence in traditional and contemporary First Nations Art. Whether the medium is carving, painting, beading, or basket weaving, to name a few, each of the awardees has their stories preserved as part of their recipient experience. 

Exceptional First Nations artists, emerging, mid-career or those who have contributed a lifetime of achievement, have been celebrated mastering their respective practices. 

The award program serves as a testament to the pivotal role of art in First Nations culture. Watching these films provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the narratives of First Nations artists, gaining an intimate understanding of the stories, techniques, and inspirations that shape their creations. The films are a celebration of cultural resilience, artistic brilliance, and the timeless connection between First Nations communities and their creative heritage. 

The films serve as inspiration for artists and art enthusiasts alike, as well as serving as a teaching tool for classrooms, young students and those who want to understand the significance of First Nations art, fostering cross-cultural understanding which helps to break down stereotypes. 

Witnessing the innovative ways in which First Nations artists merge tradition with contemporary techniques can spark creativity and encourage a more inclusive approach to artistic expression. 

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art films are easily accessible on BC Achievement’s YouTube channel. This platform ensures widespread availability, allowing audiences from all backgrounds to engage with these culturally enriching narratives. Encourage friends, family, and followers to visit the channel, watch the films, and share the experience on social media to amplify the reach and impact of these visual stories.

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

The significance of BC Achievement’s Applied Art + Design Award program films 

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Photo: Kate Metten, 2023 Applied Art + Design Award recipient and Judson Beaumont emerging artist designate

BC Achievement shines a light on the incredible accomplishments of its awardees, creating a platform for their stories to be celebrated and to inspire others. In the realm of applied art and design, the Sam Carter Applied Art + Design program’s films emerge as a compelling showcase of creativity, innovation, and the intersection of tradition with contemporary aesthetics and methods. 

These short films provide a captivating journey into the world where creativity meets functionality. Watching these films not only offers a visual feast for design enthusiasts but also deepens appreciation for the artists who seamlessly merge form and function. Hosted on BC Achievement’s YouTube channel, these films are a testament to the transformative power of design in our daily lives.  

By sharing these stories, we contribute to the celebration of innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring impact of applied art on the way we experience the world. British Columbians can see themselves in these remarkable examples and then take the first step to create stronger, more engaged communities throughout the province. 

The Applied Art + Design films curated by BC Achievement are a testament to the transformative power of creative vision in everyday life. They celebrate the mastery and ingenuity of artists who bring functionality and artistic expression together, providing a unique perspective on the innovative ways artists approach design challenges. These films celebrate the beauty inherent in the marriage of form and function, exemplifying how applied art enhances our daily experiences. 

In addition, the films highlight the artists’ inspiration, their style of work, what drives them, their challenges and their successes and their dreams for future generations of artists. No small task to complete in an under-five-minute film! But these stories are worth telling and worth sharing. They serve as a capsule holding immense knowledge, which reveal the stories and skills of each artist. 

The films offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative processes and design thinking behind functional art pieces. Viewers can gain insights into the innovative approach artists take to solve design challenges, redefining the boundaries between art and utility. They allow us to appreciate the craftsmanship and skill involved in creating functional art. From furniture and textiles to industrial design, these films highlight the meticulous attention to detail that elevates everyday objects to the realm of art. 

Audiences can gain a deeper understanding of how artists navigate the delicate balance between preserving heritage and embracing modern design aesthetics while contributing to BC’s growing cultural economy. 

As many artists in these films prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly practices, the films contribute to a broader conversation about responsible design allowing us to learn about the importance of sustainable materials, ethical production processes, and the role of design in shaping a more environmentally conscious future. 

BC Achievement Applied Art + Design films are available as part of an online archive library for the public on BC Achievement’s YouTube channel. Please watch and please share and support BC Achievement! 

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

Celebrating Indigenous business excellence through film 

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Photo: Teara Fraser, 2023 Indigenous Business Award of Distinction recipient

Storytelling has the power to illuminate, educate, and bridge gaps in our understanding of diverse cultures. The Indigenous Business Award (IBA) films stand as a testament to the importance of Indigenous narratives, offering a unique perspective on entrepreneurship, resilience and cultural heritage.  

Each year the annual Indigenous Business Award program uses storytelling through short films as one avenue to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and contributions of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Now in its sixteenth annual offering, the Indigenous Business Award program continues its mission to recognize and celebrate excellence in Indigenous business throughout British Columbia.  

Awardee stories have been captured on film and produced by BC Achievement, to serve as both a tool for the awardees to use to advance their business venture, and as an inspiration to others for the commitment and possibilities of Indigenous entrepreneurship. 

The IBA films provide a platform for Indigenous voices to be heard and celebrated allowing the viewer to gain insights into the challenges faced and overcome by Indigenous business leaders, fostering a deeper appreciation for their accomplishments. 

They also provide greater understanding of the values, traditions, and community ties that play a pivotal role in Indigenous entrepreneurship. The stories of resilience, determination and success motivate viewers to overcome their own challenges and pursue their dreams. These unique stories shed light on the economic impact of Indigenous entrepreneurship, encouraging viewers to engage with and support these businesses. And importantly, the narratives serve to inspire other Indigenous entrepreneurs as they forge their own path to excellence. 

The IBA films provide valuable educational tools. Schools, colleges, and educational institutions can use these films to teach students about Indigenous history, culture, and the contemporary issues faced by Indigenous communities. 

In 2023, a total of eight Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs, partnership entities and community-owned enterprises were recognized from across the province, joining more than 220 distinguished alumni to be honoured since the program’s launch in 2008. The short films are part of an extensive online archive library which can be viewed on BC Achievement’s YouTube channel.

Watch the films of the 2023 IBA awardees here, and please share.

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

BC Achievement’s Awards: a year-round celebration of excellence

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In a move to celebrate and recognize outstanding contributions year-round, BC Achievement is thrilled to announce that its five award programs are now open for nominations throughout the entire year. This exciting development allows nominators to submit partial nominations at any time, providing flexibility and ensuring that exceptional individuals and initiatives are continually acknowledged. 

A Year-Round Opportunity to Celebrate Excellence 

Traditionally, award programs have followed strict timelines, limiting the opportunities for recognition. However, BC Achievement is breaking the mold by embracing a dynamic, year-round approach. This means that individuals, organizations, and businesses that make a positive impact can be nominated whenever their achievements come to light. 

How It Works: Submit Partial Nominations Anytime 

The new year-round nomination process enables nominators to submit partial nominations at their convenience. Whether you’re halfway through compiling the achievements of an extraordinary individual or outlining the impact of a ground-breaking initiative, you can start the nomination process whenever inspiration strikes. This flexibility ensures that no noteworthy contribution goes unnoticed. 

Maintaining Tradition: Yearly Nomination Deadlines 

While the nomination process is now continuous, BC Achievement remains committed to transparency and consistency. The yearly nomination deadlines for each award program will remain the same, providing structure and allowing the independent jury panels ample time to carefully assess each submission. 

  • The Indigenous Business Award program’s nomination period will close on May 31, offering an opportunity to recognize exceptional Indigenous businesses that have demonstrated innovation, sustainability, and community impact. 
  • The Polygon Award in First Nations Art program and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design will conclude their nomination periods on June 30. These awards celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and design, honoring individuals who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields. 
  • The BC Reconciliation Award and the Community Award programs deadline will be January 31. The BC Reconciliation Award recognizes individuals making significant strides in reconciliation efforts. The BC Achievement Community Award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to make a positive impact in their communities. 

Elevate, Celebrate, Inspire 

BC Achievement’s decision to open nominations year-round is an invitation to all British Columbians to actively participate in recognizing excellence. Whether you’re aware of an exemplary citizen, an outstanding artist, or a thriving Indigenous business, now is the time to nominate and celebrate those who make our province extraordinary. 

By embracing a continuous nomination process, BC Achievement ensures that the spirit of acknowledgment remains alive throughout the year. This inclusivity reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation, where every achievement, big or small, is valued and celebrated. 

So, let the nominations begin! Join us in acknowledging the exceptional individuals and initiatives that contribute to the fabric of British Columbia. Together, let’s celebrate excellence year-round. 

For more information on each award program and to submit nominations, please visit BC Achievement’s Nomination Page. 

Let’s celebrate the remarkable achievements that shape our province!  Be part of it #nominatenowbc 

#BCAchievement #ExcellenceYearRound #CelebrateBC #RecognitionMatters 

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

Making mental health care accessible – Gary Thandi’s commitment leaves no one behind 

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Photo: Gary Thandi, 2023 Community Award recipient

Everyone who receives a BC Achievement Community Award is recognized for making a unique contribution to their community either as a volunteer or through their daily work, or both. They go above and beyond in their dedication and service to others and devote their time and energy to make their communities more caring, dynamic and unique. The models of practice each of the awardees has built and instilled in their immediate community are being expanded, replicated and grown because of their leadership. 

One such awardee who inspires by example is Gary Thandi, 2023 recipient, whose compassionate leadership, dedication and flexibility led to his role as founder and Executive Director of Moving Forward Family Services.  

Gary’s strong spirit of community building has transcended into the agency he founded – as well as into the lives of each of the individuals it supports. Moving Forward provides low-barrier counselling to the most vulnerable using a unique model which engages Gary’s innovative model of using graduates and intern counsellors to provide free and low-cost counselling services to those in need who may not be able to afford private therapy or qualify for public counselling. A mutually beneficial service which counsels over 2,000 people monthly at little or no charge and serves people via in-person, telephone, and online platforms, creates accessibility for the underserved. 

This initiative reflects Gary’s strong sense of public service and his focus to meet people where they are ‘at’ in life. He seeks out partners from traditionally marginalized communities and offers services in over 26 different languages. Gary lifts others up in such a way that their knowledge and perspectives can be shared. A pioneer in the local social service space, Gary fosters multiculturalism and accessibility while supporting counselling clients and interning students. His ethos of “no one will be turned away” is the foundation of his work and embodies his commitment to service, inclusion, mentorship, philanthropy, and safe connections. 

As we honour those who make their communities better, BC Achievement calls for nominations for the 21st Community Award. Nominations for the award program help recognize, celebrate and steward outstanding British Columbians while elevating their stories of excellence. Individuals like Gary are celebrated for their efforts in raising the quality and character of their communities while serving as the ultimate example of dedication and excellence. 

You can nominate deserving individuals for the 2024 Community Award at bcachievement.com. Join us and help tell the stories of outstanding British Columbians so others may follow their lead. 

Deadline to nominate is January 31, 2024. 

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

Dr. Danièle Behn Smith, Leadership in ReconciliACTION 

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Photo: 2023 BC Reconciliation Award recipient, Dr. Danièle Behn Smith

With the deadline for nominations for the BC Reconciliation Award fast approaching, it’s a good time to highlight the work of one of the 2023 awardees, Dr. Danièle Behn Smith. Her exceptional leadership demonstrates excellence in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. 

Dr. Danièle Behn Smith is Eh Cho Dene of Fort Nelson First Nation and Franco-Manitobain/Métis from the Red River Valley. Danièle has dedicated her medical career to serving rural and First Nations communities across Canada. In 2014, she transitioned to a functional medicine practice, embracing a complex systems biology approach to family practice that aligns with Indigenous approaches to health and healing. Danièle has also served as a board director for the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada, director of education for the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Health Initiatives Program, and site director of the University of British Columbia’s Aboriginal Family practice residency.   

In 2015, Danièle joined the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO) as Deputy Provincial Health Officer, Indigenous Health, providing independent advice and support to the Ministry of Health on Indigenous health matters. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Danièle contributed to identifying and arresting racism in various pandemic responses and policies. This included collaborating with the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) and a coalition of First Nations leaders to establish a data-sharing framework expanding the scope of data shared to better support First Nations-led responses. Other anti-racist actions included advocating for the removal of requirements that the Provincial Health Officer approve First Nations-led pandemic response. Under Danièle’s guidance, the OPHO expanded to include six Indigenous team members, ensuring a strong Indigenous voice within the organization.   

A leader who actively advances reconciliation, Danièle works to raise awareness and promote acknowledgement that Indigenous-specific racism is perpetuated through colonial policies and practices that remain hardwired into our systems and processes and impede the health and wellness of Indigenous Peoples. She actively works to uphold the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples by taking actions on specific Foundational Commitments made to Indigenous Peoples (e.g., UNDRIP, TRC, MMIWG & In Plain Sight), being trustworthy in relationships with Indigenous partners, and taking anti-racist actions in all aspects of her work with the OPHO. She fosters relationships and collaborations to identify and eliminate racism in programs and services, while also promoting increased Indigenous cultural knowledge among those with whom she works. Danièle challenges the existing ways of knowing and operating within the healthcare system and society at large to improve the well-being of Indigenous communities.  

Now in its fourth year, the BC Reconciliation Award recognizes excellence in the area of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of British Columbia. It aims to showcase leadership in reconciliation so others will follow on the journey forward. Last year six extraordinary individuals and organizations were recognized as recipients of this award for their exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation.  

Nominations for the BC Reconciliation Award will be accepted until January 31, 2024! #nominatenowbc.

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

The 2024 British Columbia Reconciliation Award – nominations open until Jan 31

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The 2015 publication of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) report defines reconciliation as “establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country.” 

While the term reconciliation is familiar to most, translating it into action takes responsibility, recognition and respect. In keeping with the recommendations of the TRC report, and inspired by the work of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and a founder of the BC Reconciliation Award, the BC Achievement Foundation, in partnership with The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, launched the program in 2020.  

Now in its fourth year, this award program recognizes individuals, groups and organizations who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of British Columbia or inspire others to continue reconciliation efforts. 

“Reconciliation serves as the foundation for forging meaningful connections and closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Through acknowledging historical injustices and highlighting transformative initiatives, we inspire others to follow a similar path,” said Cloy-e-iis, Judith Sayers, board member of the BC Achievement Foundation. “As we step into the fourth year of the BC Reconciliation Award, we call for submission of nominations for the award program to help share the efforts of individuals and communities.” 

Nominations are open for the 2024 award program at bcachievement.com but only until January 31, 2024. Up to six individuals or organizations will be recognized for their efforts, commitment and impact towards reconciliation. 

“Every year we launch nominations for the BC Reconciliation Award. I grow more and more grateful for the opportunity to witness the exceptional ways in which individuals and organizations in British Columbia advance reconciliation,” said The Honourable Janet Austin, the Lieutenant Governor of BC. “It takes creativity, intelligence, but most importantly it takes courage—courage to acknowledge the injustices of the past and present, and courage to mend those wounds. I look forward to seeing this courage reflected in the 2024 nominations.” 

“Nominating individuals and organizations for the BC Reconciliation Award is a powerful testament to collective pledges to healing, unity, and understanding. My hope is that this recognition continues to inspire positive change and strengthens the bonds of reconciliation in our province.  As a juror and past recipient of the BC Reconciliation Award, I am humbled and honoured to witness and be a part of the transformative power of reconciliation efforts in British Columbia and encourage you to nominate those who are making a difference, change is transformative and we all must do our part,” said Chief/Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, former recipient and 2023 selection committee member. 

The nomination period for the BC Reconciliation Award will be open until January 31, 2024. Online nominations are open on the BC Achievement Foundation website at bcachievement.com. 

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

New to the Community Award Program: The Emerging Leader Designation

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Photo: 2023 Community Award recipient, Stephanie Quon

This year marks the 21st anniversary of the BC Achievement Foundation and its cornerstone program – the Community Award, which highlights the outstanding achievements of remarkable individuals in BC. Each of the awardees has made unique contributions to their communities, whether through volunteering or their daily work—and often both.  

Introduced to the 2024 Community Award program is a new recognition category: The Emerging Leader designation which recognizes and celebrates youth who are making a difference in their communities and striving to make BC a better place. This distinction will acknowledge the incredible dedication and efforts of young leaders. Through this empowerment, a ripple effect will transpire – one that resonates far beyond the initial act of service.  

The Emerging Leader designation will provide a platform for the next generation of leaders to showcase their skills, share their stories, and inspire change. “As we look to the future and the challenges that lie ahead, it is more important than ever to recognize the achievements of youth in our province. They are the ones who will lead us forward, and we need to support and encourage them every step of the way”, said Walter Pela, BC Achievement Board Chair.

The Community Award program has showcased the stories of over 660 British Columbians who have blazed a path forward through their community achievements. Such achievements require strength, courage, and skill, serving as an inspiration for others to follow. Community Award recipients have played a vital role in building stronger and more engaged communities thanks to their exceptional leadership. 

Join the movement by nominating worthy candidates, celebrating our outstanding awardees, and in doing so, build a better British Columbia together. By sharing the stories of inspiring British Columbians, BC Achievement illuminates transformative work, enabling others to follow their examples and create meaningful change in their communities.

Nominations for the Community Award are now open and can be submitted online at bcachievement.com until January 31, 2024. An independent jury panel of community leaders, which includes program alumni, adjudicate the submissions.  

Be part of it #nominatenowbc.  

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

Celebrating the spirit of excellence: bringing continued joy to the season 

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We know very well there are injustices taking place in the world around us and in our very own neighbourhoods. This can often be hard to process and confusing on how to take action. 

Our mission is to elevate excellence and see the good that is happening in BC and we support the work of those who takes action towards justice, hope and love. Our communities thrive when we work together for a common good. 

So keeping love, community and action in mind, we want to continue the joy, adding to the festive season and highlighting a few of this year’s awardees who are doing things to light up and lift up their communities. 

Riley McFerrin of Hinterland design lights up a room! – No pun intended. This hardworking and creative furniture and lighting designer brings life and beauty to functional items. His light Dendera Light Fixture lit up the BC Achievement Applied Art + Design exhibition at The Roundhouse Community Centre last month where guests could see his work up close. And he took the time to share with the audience what drives his artistic passion: 

”People are more important than things. I’ve spent my entire life making objects to the best of my ability but ultimately, it is people that I care about the most. It’s the users of the things that I make, the people that I get to work alongside of – this community of designers and makers here in BC – or the entire rest of the world that is impacted by the materials and processes used.” 

Riley McFerrin, Hinterland Design 

Indigenous Business Award recipient Marcia Turner of Daxgedim Haanak’ Nation Building is a leader focused on advocating for self-determination and self-government among Indigenous peoples across the province. 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, advancing Indigenous rights and title and is inspired by those she aims to serve. 

“A lot of our nations are really doing tremendous work to revitalize our cultural processes and practices. They are doing work in the resurgence of our cultural teachings and languages, and I think that’s really powerful. And it’s what keeps me going in terms of doing this work as I see tremendous innovation and advancement in what communities are doing. I am so honoured and privileged to have visibility to the great work our nations are doing…with the strength of our culture and ancestral traditions to guide us and that’s what makes this so exciting and powerful.”  

Marcia Turner of Daxgedim Haanak’ Nation Building 

Gerry Nellestijn, Community Award recipient, is a founder and trailblazing force behind the Salmo Watershed Streamkeepers Society an organization that promotes research, awareness and restoration of threatened fish and wildlife and their habitat in the Salmo watershed and beyond. His advocacy has led to several long-term fisheries monitoring projects being funded for over 20 years while protecting the watershed for generations to come. Gerry shared his thoughts on the importance of recognition and how receiving a Community Award creates impact. 

“The Community Award recognition gives us something that is often overlooked, a reward for our efforts. It’s not money or things it’s a form of appreciation. In many cases, and in many places, resilience, collaboration, inclusion and consensus building are often unnoticed even denigrated. The Community Award corrects that and provides honour to our activities. This honour rewards our community as well as the individuals that implement solutions. The Community Award is a milieu for providing a role modelling reward”. 

Gerry Nellestijn, Salmo Watershed Streamkeepers Society 

These awardees and the almost 1000 more that BC Achievement has recognized in its 20 year history, are examples of the impact of one person on the world around them. They elevate excellence and in doing so, inspire change.  

Cheers to those who bring light, love and hope to their communities and carve a path forward for others to follow.  

The future is bright. Thank you to everyone who supports the work we do and helps inspire change. We look forward to working with the people of this province and continuing the celebrations of excellence in 2024. #bepartofit  #nominatenowbc #elevateexcellence

BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change