Category: Blog

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.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: nurturing empathy, understanding, and unity 

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Photo: Design from Indigenous artist and Arts Umbrella Board member James Harry (Nexw’Kalus)

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, on September 30, serves as a stark reminder of the injustices faced by Indigenous people, especially in residential schools. It is a significant step toward healing and reconciliation, while raising awareness about the lasting effects of residential schools and colonization on Indigenous peoples throughout the country. 

Orange Shirt Day originated from residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad’s personal experience. A member of the Stswecem’c Xget’tem First Nation and survivor of the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in Williams Lake, Phyllis has shared her story widely as the founder and ambassador of Orange Shirt Day. Her childhood experience of having a cherished orange shirt stripped from her symbolizes the broader suffering of Indigenous children whose identities and cultures were stripped away through the residential school system and underlines the resulting intergenerational trauma experienced by survivors. 

Awareness helps educate all Canadians about the history and impact of residential schools. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation allows collective reflection on past injustices, while Orange Shirt Day emphasizes individual experiences and emotional trauma. Both promote compassion by fostering dialogue and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, nurturing empathy, understanding, and unity. 

And most importantly, September 30 is a call for action. It challenges governments, institutions, and individuals to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, address disparities in healthcare, education, and justice, and respect Indigenous rights and sovereignty. 

Here’s how individuals can actively support and participate in meaningful observances: 

Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the history of residential schools and the experiences of Indigenous peoples. Read books, watch documentaries, and engage with Indigenous literature and art to gain a deeper understanding. 

Listen and Learn: Engage in open, empathetic conversations with Indigenous friends, family members, or community members. Their perspectives and experiences are invaluable in fostering understanding. 

Wear an Orange Shirt: On Orange Shirt Day, wear an orange shirt as a symbol of your commitment to reconciliation and raising awareness about the impacts of residential schools. Encourage others to do the same. 

Participate in Local Events: Attend local events, ceremonies, or gatherings organized by Indigenous communities or advocacy groups. These events provide an opportunity to listen, learn, and show support. 

Teach Others: Share your knowledge and understanding with friends and family. Encourage them to participate in conversations and events related to reconciliation. 

Support Indigenous Businesses: Seek out and support Indigenous-owned businesses and artists. This can help strengthen Indigenous communities and economies. 

Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives aimed at addressing disparities in healthcare, education, and justice for Indigenous peoples. Advocate for the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. 

Read the TRC Report: Familiarize yourself with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report and its 94 Calls to Action. Hold government officials accountable for progress on these recommendations. 

Donate to Indigenous Organizations: Contribute to Indigenous-led organizations and charities working towards reconciliation, healing, and supporting Indigenous communities. 

Reflect and Self-Examine: Take a moment to reflect on your own biases and privilege. Be open to personal growth and actively challenge stereotypes and prejudices. 

Create Safe Spaces: Foster inclusive and safe spaces where Indigenous voices are heard and respected. Promote diversity and inclusion in your workplace, school, or community. 

Participate Year-Round: While these observances have designated days, reconciliation is a year-round commitment. Continue to engage in these actions and conversations beyond these specific dates. 

Watch BC Achievement’s short films: Peruse the treasury of short films produced by BC Achievement highlighting the accomplishments of BC’s First Nations artists and Indigenous entrepreneurs. Find them on our YouTube channel. 

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

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art: Join us for the 2023 Dinner and Presentation Ceremony 

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Celebrate the 2023 recipients of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art program at The Roundhouse in Vancouver on November 15! Click here to purchase your tickets on Eventbrite.

Since 2006, the First Nations Art (FNA) award program has championed the intersection of art and culture, while simultaneously paying homage to First Nations artistic traditions. By celebrating both traditional and contemporary arts, the FNA program sets a stage where First Nations artists can shine, fostering genuine community engagement, mentorship, and the art of storytelling. The program serves as a powerful platform for the stories of artists to be told and heard while showcasing artistic excellence. 

Program recipients will be honoured at an award presentation in front of their family members, friends, peers, and community. Four short films produced by BC Achievement will be premiered at this event unveiling each recipient’s artistic journey and achievements. The films live on the BC Achievement YouTube library, accessible to anyone who wants to learn and be inspired. 

The exceptional art of each awardee is showcased in a week-long exhibit at The Roundhouse surrounding attendees with a welcoming space celebrating excellence. 

The 2023 FNA award ceremony will include a formal sit-down dinner, along with the award ceremony and art exhibit. Featuring local and cultural food, the FNA award celebration will bring people together, sharing the artists’ unique perspectives with a wider audience, fostering dialogue, understanding, and appreciation. 

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art Dinner and Award Presentation is a celebration of artistic brilliance, cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of First Nations artists. The gathering is a testament to the ongoing journey of artistic expression and cultural preservation. The Polygon Award in First Nations Art program ensures that the stories and artistry of First Nations peoples continue to captivate and inspire generations to come. 

Watch for the 2023 Awardee announcement in October! 

BC Achievement is grateful for the generosity of Polygon Homes in supporting the First Nations Art Award program. 

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

Introducing the Emerging Leader designation for the 2024 Community Award program

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Photo: Stephanie Quon, 2023 Community Award recipient

As we celebrate the first two decades of honouring the citizens who build community in this province, BC Achievement is pleased to announce a new category saluting youth who are leading the way. The Emerging Leader designation – launching in 2024, will be part of the annual Community Award program. 

The mission of BC Achievement is to elevate excellence to inspire achievement. The goal of this new designation will be to recognize and celebrate the strength, courage, and skill of 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 unwavering efforts of young leaders. It will act as a beacon of motivation for the youth who dedicate their time and energy to making a difference. 

The Emerging Leader designation will nurture a sense of accomplishment and self-worth amongst awardees, supporting the belief that their actions possess the potential to sculpt a positive transformation within their communities. Through this empowerment, a ripple effect transpires – one that resonates far beyond the initial act of service. 

Photo: Baylie McKnight, 2022 Community Award recipient

Often fuelled by a selfless drive, these young changemakers embark on endeavours with little anticipation of recognition. Yet, when bestowed with an award, their commitment receives a well-deserved spotlight, igniting a fire of inspiration within them and inspiring others to follow suit. 

And at a community level the Emerging Leader designation will inspire a culture of giving back, cultivating an ethos where the youth embrace their roles as active contributors to the common good.  

The Emerging Leader designation will be a platform for the next generation of leaders to showcase their skills, share their stories, and inspire change. We are excited to embark on this new initiative.  

The Community Award program provides an opportunity to publicly acknowledge the transformative efforts of individuals who raise the quality and character of their community and, in doing so, inspire others to do the same. BC Achievement is honoured to extend this recognition to the youth of this province. 

Nominations for the Community Award and the Emerging Leader designation open December 1, 2023 at bcachievement.com. 

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

The Indigenous Business Award of Distinction designation: Inspired leadership

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Photo: Chief David Jimmie, Recipient, 2022 IBA Award of Distinction

Indigenous entrepreneurs who receive the IBA program’s award of distinction designation leave an indelible mark on their respective communities and contribute significantly to the broader province and its economic landscape. 

“Hard work is what creates success. We need to teach our young people to understand that hard work will get you to where you want to be.  Achievements are not the result of one person or work; they are the collective result of people working together. Behind every person being recognized for their achievements is a team”. 

Chief David Jimmie, Recipient, 2022 IBA Award of Distinction 

The IBA Award of Distinction recognizes outstanding achievement in Indigenous entrepreneurship in BC. The honour is presented to an individual who, over their career, has made a significant difference in the Indigenous business community through their entrepreneurial endeavours and, in doing so, serves as a leader, role model, mentor and inspiration. The individual may be an innovator in their business activities, a successful entrepreneur, or an individual who has been instrumental in supporting or creating Indigenous business activities in the province.  

Candidates are appointed by the BC Achievement board of directors through consultation received from community input, jury feedback and online nominations. The 2023 Award of Distinction recipient will be named later this month, alongside the announcement presenting the seven awardees of the Indigenous Business Award in their various categories. These remarkable individuals embody resilience, innovation, and a deep connection to their cultural heritage, often infusing traditional wisdom into modern business practices.  

Beyond their economic contributions, these entrepreneurs foster social empowerment by creating job opportunities, promoting skills development, and investing in community projects. The impact they have is far-reaching, extending beyond business to the cultural revitalization and self-determination of Indigenous peoples.  

BC Achievement is honoured to salute the Award of Distinction alumni on the 15th anniversary of the IBA program and thank them for their leadership:   

  • 2022 Chief David Jimmie 
  • 2021 Ken Cameron 
  • 2020 Carol Anne Hilton  
  • 2019 Paulette Flamond  
  • 2018 Chief Gordon Planes  
  • 2017 Chief Gibby Jacob
  • 2016 Chief Robert Louie
  • 2015 James Walkus
  • 2014 Councillor Garry Feschuk
  • 2013 Chief Commissioner Sophie Pierre & Ruth Williams
  • 2012 Chief Garry Reece
  • 2011 Chief Councillor Louie
  • 2010 Dolly (Watts) McRae & John Harper
  • 2009 Dorothy Grant & Angelique Merasty Levac

The IBA program honours excellence and focuses on the successes of Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs. 

Join hosts Geena Jackson and Chief David Jimmie on November 1 for the 15th annual IBA Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and celebrate the 2023 Award of Distinction designate and the deserving awardees from around the province! 

Tickets for the 2023 IBA Gala can be purchased at bcachievement.com! 

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