Category: Blog

Nominate now for the 4th annual BC Reconciliation Award  

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Now in its fourth year, the BC Reconciliation Award recognizes excellence in the area of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of BC. It aims to showcase leadership in reconciliation so others will follow on the journey forward.  

The BC Reconciliation Award is a partnership program between the BC Achievement Foundation and The Office of the Lieutenant Governor. It draws inspiration form the work of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and a founder of the Award. His hand-carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, currently on display at the BC Legislature buildings, was created as a symbol of reconciliation, with the understanding that “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” to move forward. 

“Reconciliation 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.” 

In honour of this legacy, each years’ recipients receive a print of a canoe paddle designed by  the Polygon Award in First Nations Art Emerging Artist. The following artists have been commissioned by BC Achievement to design the paddle and share their understanding of the reconciliation journey: 

Kwakwaka’wakw artist Cole Speck (2021); 

Dene and Carrier beader Crystal Behn (2022); and,  

Kwakwaka’wakw moccasin maker Jamie Gentry (2023)  

The ongoing series of BC Reconciliation Award paddles will be displayed in Government House. 

Six extraordinary individuals and organizations were recognized in 2022 as recipients of this award. Their exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation, was honoured along with the 2021 recipients at an inaugural ceremony at Government House in Victoria. 

“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 to our part,” said Chief/Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, former recipient and 2023 Selection Committee member. 

Nominations open November 15, 2023 – January 31, 2024 

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

Be part of it #nominatenowbc. Share the news! 

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

Nominations are now open for the 21st annual Community Award  

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This month marks the call for nominations for the 21st Community Award. The award program recognizes, celebrates and stewards outstanding British Columbians while elevating their stories of excellence. Individuals are celebrated for their efforts in raising the quality and character of their communities while serving as the ultimate example of dedication and excellence. 

“The Community Award program is a testament to the best of BC. The program has lifted up and told the stories of over 660 British Columbians who have carved a path forward through their community achievement. This requires strength, courage and skill – for others to emulate and, in doing so, builds stronger and more engaged communities,” said Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation. “Every year, the nominees impress with their desire to be of service to their communities and with their commitment to improve the lives of their neighbours and province.”  

A new designation is included in the launch of the 2024 Call for Nominations. The new Emerging Leader designation will be added to recognize and celebrate young people 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.  

“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”, added Pela. 

“It is an incredible honour and privilege to receive a BC Achievement Community Award. The award has reaffirmed my interests in community service, sustainability, and accessibility and the incredible work of those I am surrounded by. I think it is important to recognize excellence in community service as it helps to increase engagement and foster pride and collaboration in our communities.” Stephanie Quon, 2023 Awardee 

Nominations open December 1, 2023 – January 31, 2024 

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. Share the news! 

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

Encouraging diversity and a culture of belonging, Community Awardee Jessie Sutherland continues to make an impact 

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Photo: Jessie Sutherland, 2023 Community Award recipient

Community Award recipients demonstrate exceptional commitment to making their communities – and our province – healthier, happier and more hopeful. One such awardee is Jessie Sutherland of Richmond, BC who shares her passion, talent and time in the service of others. In 2023, Jessie was awarded a Community Award for the work she does as an international speaker, trainer, and consultant working with organizations and communities to encourage diversity, build belonging and ignite intercultural collaboration.  

Her approach creates sustainable community change that effectively addresses complex social problems. Jessie’s work has been delivered in over eight languages and has taken her across Canada and around the world to support communities in their efforts to address challenging issues including poverty, homelessness, the overdose crisis, elder abuse, reconciliation, youth engagement and more.  

As founder of the organization Intercultural Strategies, Jessie helps leaders and groups build cultures of belonging to create change in an inclusive and positive way. She is the innovator of the award-winning Belonging Matters Conversations series and capacity-building framework designed to change mindsets, deepen interconnections, impart greater social capital and build stronger communities.  

“A key ingredient for sustaining engagement in any community change initiative is the on-going practice of recognizing and celebrating people, talents and successes along the way. The BC Achievement Community Award models what we all can be doing more of – celebrating and recognizing the talents and contributions of people in our own communities who are doing incredible work. I see BC Achievement Community Award as an invitation for us all to be on the lookout for ways to celebrate each other in small and big ways,” says Jessie. 

Since receiving the award in 2023, Jessie has expanded the reach of her services and is now collaborating with Michael Quinn Patton (former president of the American Evaluation Society), to support organizations in building their teams’ capacity to measure and accelerate belonging in their unique contexts. This includes measuring the impact of their equity and inclusion initiatives so that they can learn what’s working and what needs improving. Jessie and Michael’s new online 6-week program, Measure & Accelerate Belonging, helps create a clear process that gives teams the information they need to access resources and supports to scale their change initiatives across departments and contexts. 

For information about Intercultural Strategies and the work Jessie is doing to support organizations to build genuine cultures of belonging, visit: www.interculturalstrategies.ca . 

Community Award recipients include everyone from ambitious students to established entrepreneurs. “The honourees show us how everyone can have a hand in building a stronger BC. Their stories are sure to inspire British Columbians across the province,” said BC Achievement Board Chair, Walter Pela. 

You can nominate deserving individuals for the Community Award on December 1 at bcachievement.com. Nomination forms are online and BC Achievement staff are available to answer your questions. Deadline to nominate is January 31, 2024. 

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

Kate Metten – Infusing the Ordinary with the Extraordinary 

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Photo: Kate Metten, 2023 Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist

The BC Achievement Applied Art + Design award program honours excellence and inspires achievement throughout the province. By shining a light on the intersection of art and design in our lives, we celebrate the innovative and fearless spirits who create it. More than an award program, it is an investment in the cultural and economic fabric of our province. 

The awardees of the Applied Art + Design program enhance day-to-day life while enriching our collective experiences. Launched in the fall of 2004, the program recognizes up to four BC artists annually, for artistic excellence in functional art. The program includes the Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist designation, named in honour of the late BC-based furniture designer. The award celebrates Judson’s legacy, talents, and entrepreneurial creativity by supporting, mentoring, and highlighting emerging talent within BC’s thriving cultural community of artists and designers. 

A mentor to many aspiring artists and designers, Judson enjoyed sharing his experiences and ideas with students. 

“I tell young people you’re going to have ups and downs…successes and failures, but you just need to learn from it, you just need to keep moving ahead.” 

Kate Metten is the third recipient of the Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist designation since its establishment in 2020. Her pottery is a testament to intuition and muscle memory found within each unique piece. An exceptional commitment and dedication to her craft have made her an emerging artistic force in the world of ceramics. Kate’s journey as a potter is characterized by her one-of-a-kind ceramics that resonate with spirit and soul. Her vessels, masterfully thrown and intricately glazed, are prized by a growing clientele for their exquisite craftsmanship.  

What sets Kate apart is her ability to infuse the ordinary with the extraordinary, transforming everyday objects into iconic art pieces. 

Beyond her artistic prowess, Kate’s contributions to the cultural economy are noteworthy. She runs an atelier bridging the gap between artist and audience. Kate’s impact on the cultural economy extends beyond her own creations. She conducts workshops, mentors students, and curates exhibitions, providing emerging potters and craftspeople with exposure and opportunities. Her success becomes a legacy by which she passes on her knowledge and passion, inspired by the mentors who guided her own journey. 

Kate, along with her fellow 2023 Applied Art + Design award recipients will be celebrated tonight at a ceremony at Vancouver’s Roundhouse. For the first time, the event will be live-streamed thanks to a partnership between BC Achievement and TELUS. 

Join us! Click here to watch the show at 6:30 p.m.

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

Open for Nominations: BC Reconciliation Award program November 15

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Nominate now for the annual BC Reconciliation Award program! 

Now in its fourth year, the BC Reconciliation Award recognizes excellence in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of BC. The Award honours 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. 

With every story shared, there is the potential for inspiration to spark elsewhere. It’s this potential and these small sparks that allow hope to rise-up within our province. And it is in honouring excellence that BC Achievement hopes to inspire achievement. 

Photo: Sophie Pierre OC, OBC, Patrick Kelly, and David Suzuki, 2021 BC Reconciliation Award recipient

BC Achievement is grateful to work in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia to deliver the program which draws inspiration from the work of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and a founder of the award. His hand-carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, currently on display at the B.C. legislature buildings, was created as a symbol of reconciliation, with the understanding that “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” to move forward. 

It is time to start considering who is doing this work and tell the stories of reconciliation in action throughout the province and #nominatenowbc! Submissions will be accepted starting November 15, 2023, until January 31, 2024.  

Nominate online at bcachievement.com. All submissions are reviewed by an independent selection committee comprised of representation from Indigenous Elders and leadership. 

Submit your nominations for the BC Reconciliation Award starting November 15, 2023 until January 31, 2024! #nominatenowbc 

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

Shawna Kiesman named Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist – Polygon Award in First Nations Art

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Shawna Kiesman, an emerging artist from Victoria, is a testament to dedication and innovation in her craft. Her heritage includes Ts’msyen, Nisga’a and Haida/German roots and her artistic journey began at the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Arts. Shawna continued her education at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts and receiving both the Audain Entrance Scholarship and BC Arts Council Scholarship. 

Not bad for someone who never envisioned being an artist. “If you told me when I was in high school that I’m going to win a BC Achievement Award, I would probably think you’re crazy because I never did art. I never thought I would be an artist or even doing anything within my culture so prominently at all.” 

Shawna’s commitment to her artistic development is recognized and elevated in receiving the 2023 Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist designation. The independent jury’s selection denotes that though in the early stages of her professional career, Shawna’s artistic trajectory points her in the direction of advanced artistic development. 

Photo: Shawna Kiesman, 2023 Crabtree McLennan Emerging

As an emerging artist, Shawna’s post-graduation career is thriving, marked by grants and residencies, including the RBC Audain Museum Emerging Artist Program. Permanent collections such as the Nisga’a Museum and Coast Mountain College house and celebrate her work. Each piece is a means of cultural exploration and identity reclamation that delves into her Indigenous heritage. Shawna’s diverse portfolio includes digital art, textiles, drawing, and painting, and is known for its modernized take on everyday items. As a First Nations artist, she seeks to understand her ancestral culture and its complexities while ensuring its continuance and legacy.  

As the recipient of the 2023 Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist, Shawna will be commissioned to design a paddle for the BC Reconciliation Award, another of BC Achievement’s programs – this one in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. The symbolism of presenting recipients of the BC Reconciliation Award with a print of the paddle designed by the Crabtree McLennan Emerging artist stems from 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. His hand-carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, currently on display at the BC Legislature buildings, was created as a symbol of reconciliation, with the understanding that “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” to move forward. 

In honour of this legacy, each year, recipients are presented with a print of a canoe paddle designed by the Emerging Artist recipient of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art. For the 2024 recipients, they will receive a limited edition print of Shawna Kiesman’s designed paddle. Each original paddle hangs in Government House celebrating the awardees and each artists’ interpretation of reconciliation. 

Shawna will be recognized for her artistic accomplishments at the Dinner and Award Presentation on November 15. Purchase tickets for the event at bcachievement.com. 

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

IBA Gala 2023: A vibrant celebration of Indigenous business

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The 15th annual IBA Gala Dinner, hosted last night at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, was a vibrant celebration of the exceptional achievements of eight Indigenous businesses. Chief David Jimmie and Geena Jackson co-hosted the event, joined by over 650 guests, as business excellence was showcased through the premiere of recipient films, sharing their entrepreneurial journeys. 

Cloy-e-iis Judith Sayers, BC Achievement board member, encapsulated the program’s intent, commending the awardees for their unwavering determination, tenacity, viability, and remarkable commitment to excellence. She highlighted the unique dedication of Indigenous businesses to giving back to their communities. 

BC Achievement expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the 2023 IBA sponsorship family for their invaluable support. 

To our readers, we invite you to be part of last night’s challenge and nominate businesses for the 2024 IBA program. The fast track nomination period remains open until Friday at 5:00 pm, and nominators have the exciting chance to win two VIP tickets to the 2024 IBA Gala Presentation Dinner in an upcoming draw. Click here to nominate!  Note that the Call for Nominations will be active in May 2024. 

For those who missed the ceremony, you can catch the recording through this link, and the films featuring the awardees are accessible on BC Achievement’s website and YouTube channel. Join us in sharing and celebrating these exceptional entrepreneurial accomplishments. 

Congratulations again to all the 2023 IBA recipients! 

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

Experience the Artistry: Join us at an exhibition showcasing the recipients of the 2023 art award programs 

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A public art exhibition visually shares knowledge, celebrates artists and provides space for gathering and shared dialogue. Starting November 16, BC Achievement will be hosting an exhibition to highlight the artwork of the 2023 recipients of its two art award programs: the 2023 Polygon Award in First Nations Art (FNA) and the Applied Art + Design Award (AAD) programs. 

Since 2006, the FNA program has celebrated the art and culture of First Nations artists, recognizing excellence in traditional or contemporary visual arts. It fosters community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling, passing traditions to younger generations and sharing them with a BC-wide audience. To date, the program has honoured more than 90 outstanding artists. 

The AAD program highlights functional art that enhances daily life and enriches our collective experiences. It celebrates British Columbians who contribute to the province’s culture and economy through innovative functional art. Over 80 artists and designers have received this award over the past nineteen years. 

These programs advance art discourse in the province and provide a platform to share cultural history and artistic innovation with the community. They also empower recognized artists (recipients) to lead and inspire the next generation of creators. 

BC Achievement is proud to present a combined exhibition showcasing the recipients for both the 2023 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design Award. The exhibition, which is free and open to the public, will take place at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre from Thursday, November 16 9am – 9pm until Wednesday, November 22 at noon. Click here to register. 

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

15th Annual Indigenous Business Award Gala Dinner: Celebrating Transformative Success 

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The recipients of the 15th annual Indigenous Business Award  (IBA) program have been announced and will be celebrated in front of fellow entrepreneurs, along with their respective communities, at the annual IBA Gala dinner on November 1st. The award program recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs, partnership entities and community-owned enterprises.  

Congratulations to the 2023 Indigenous Business Awardees: 

Young Entrepreneur of the Year:
The Ballantyne Project, Maple Ridge

Business of the Year – one-to-two person enterprise:
Daxgedim Haanak Nation Building, Comox

Business of the Year – three-to-ten person enterprise:
Totem Design House, Courtenay

Business of the Year – 11+ person enterprise:
Jelly Academy, Fort Langley

Community-owned Business of the Year – one entity:
Sugar Cane Archaeology, Williams Lake

Community-owned Business of the Year – two or more entities: 
Tiičma Enterprise, Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations (KCFN) Village of Houpsitas

Business Partnership of the Year: 
Shxw’owhamel Land Sea Limited Partnership (SLLP), Hope

Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement:
Teara Fraser, Richmond

“Congratulations to the recipients of the 2023 Indigenous Business Award for exceptional entrepreneurship, outstanding contributions to the BC economy, and dedication to uplifting Indigenous communities through innovative endeavours,” says Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation. “Your success serves as an inspiring example of the key role Indigenous businesses play within local communities, throughout the province, and beyond.” 

The IBA program shares remarkable stories of Indigenous business excellence – while setting an inspiring example for the next generation of entrepreneurs. In addition to providing an authentic space to showcase successes and drive change, the awards help build stronger connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous economies in the province. It counts over 220 businesses within its alumni. 

This year’s IBA theme is “Building Community” and each of the businesses reflect that value in their work. The awardee selection was made by an independent jury panel that included Rhianna Millman, Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility Consultant, BC College of Nurses and Midwives and a member of Métis Nation BC; Ernie (Bones) George, CAO of Tsleil-Waututh Nation; and Jeff Ward, Ojibwe and Métis, founder and CEO of Animikii and a two-time IBA alumnus. 

The recipients of the 2023 Indigenous Business Award will be recognized during a formal gala ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Wednesday, November 1, 2023. Hosted by Geena Jackson and Chief David Jimmie (2022 Award of Distinction recipient) the event is open to the public, and tickets can be purchased for $250 per person online here.  

The IBA program is presented by the BC Achievement Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. It is generously supported by: Enbridge, YVR, Teck Resources Limited, TD, Vancity, Ovintiv, BC Hydro, BC Transit, CN, KPMG, New Relationship Trust, Seaspan, Simpcw Resources Group, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, West Fraser, Dentons, FortisBC, Pacific Blue Cross, RBC, SFU Beedie School of Business Indigenous EMBA, Trans Mountain and TELUS. 

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

Polygon Award in First Nations Art Recipients Announced

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Today BC Achievement Foundation announced the recipients of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art (FNA). Presented annually this award program shines a light on artistic excellence in traditional, contemporary or media in First Nations Art.

The 2023 recipients, chosen by an independent jury, are:

Brent Sparrow – Musqueam, Vancouver

Klatle-bhi – Kwakwaka’wakw / Squamish, West Vancouver

Shawna Kiesman – Nisga’a, Ts’msyen, Haida, Victoria – Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist

The 2023 Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement, as decided by the BC Achievement Board after community consultation, is:

Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) – Kwakwaka’wakw / Squamish – West Vancouver – Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement

“Congratulations to each of the deserving recipients of the 2023 Polygon Award in First Nations Art! The recognition is a testament to your artistic brilliance in traditional and contemporary art,” said Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation. “The commitment to your craft, impressive body of work, and the recognition you receive within your communities showcase the profound impact of your creativity and dedication to preserving and advancing First Nations art. These contributions enrich the cultural landscape, inspiring others while preserving the deep heritage of First Nations arts in British Columbia.” Thank you for inspiring the next generation of artists while preserving the legacy of First Nations Art in BC,” he added.

Now in its 17th year, the Polygon Award in First Nations Art recognizes those who have demonstrated a commitment to their art practice; have accumulated a body of work; and are recognized in their communities as artists. Celebrating the intersection of art and culture, while honouring First Nations artistic traditions, the program creates a platform for community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling.

The 2023 jury members include Nathan Wilson, Nuu-chah-nulth, Gitxsan and Kwakwaka’wakw ancestry and 2020 recipient; Shawn Hunt, Heiltsuk and 2011 recipient; Xémontélót Carrielynn Victor, Cheam First Nation and 2018 recipient. Connie Watts, Associate Director, Aboriginal Programs, Emily Carr University of Art + Design and artist of Nuu-chah-nulth, Gitxsan and Kwakwaka’wakw ancestry; and Brenda Crabtree, former Director, Aboriginal Programs, and Special Advisor to the President on Indigenous Initiatives, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, a member of the Spuzzum Band   with both Nlaka’pamux and Sto:lo ancestry, served as advisors.

Join us at a ticketed award ceremony and dinner on Wednesday, November 15 at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver, BC where each recipient will be honoured with a short film highlighting their accomplishments. Click here to purchase tickets.

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art is made possible through the generosity of Vancouver-based Polygon Homes.  The BC Achievement Foundation is also grateful to supporting sponsors TELUS and TD, and community partners BC Ferries, Denbigh Fine Art Services, and The Roundhouse each of which play a key role in elevating change in their support of the First Nations Art Award program.  

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