Category: Blog

Celebrate Achievement This Fall with Us

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Mark your calendars—BC Achievement’s fall celebration season is just around the corner, and this year’s events promise to be as dynamic, inspiring, and community-driven as ever. 

Each of BC Achievement’s programs shines a light on remarkable individuals and organizations across the province. From entrepreneurship and artistic excellence to innovation in design, these celebrations are opportunities to gather, connect, and recognize the people shaping British Columbia’s future. 

Kicking off the season is the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala, taking place on November 4, 2026, at a new venue: the Hyatt in downtown Vancouver. This exciting move marks a new chapter for the program, offering a fresh setting to honour Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses whose leadership, vision, and impact continue to strengthen communities across BC. 

This year’s date also coincides with the First Nations Leadership Gathering, making it easier than ever for guests travelling from across the province to attend both events. It’s an intentional alignment—one that reflects the spirit of connection and collaboration at the heart of the Indigenous Business Award program. 

Later in November, BC Achievement returns to the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre—one of Vancouver’s most vibrant cultural spaces—for two cornerstone celebrations. 

On Thursday, November 19, the Applied Art + Design Award recipients will be honoured at an energizing reception. This event celebrates excellence in functional art and design, recognizing creators whose work blends beauty, purpose, and innovation. From textiles and industrial design to digital media and craftsmanship, the evening highlights the diverse ways design shapes our daily lives. 

The season concludes with the Polygon Award in First Nations Art on Tuesday, November 24, returning to the Roundhouse. This powerful celebration recognizes First Nations artists whose work is rooted in tradition while pushing contemporary boundaries. It is always an evening filled with creativity, storytelling, and a deep sense of cultural pride. 

Whether you’re drawn to Indigneous business leadership, contemporary design, or First Nations art, there’s something for everyone to experience this fall. Each event offers a unique opportunity to engage with BC’s creative and entrepreneurial communities—and to celebrate the achievements that connect us all. 

Tickets for all events will be available in the coming weeks. In the meantime, you can reserve your spot by emailing info@bcachievement.com. 

We look forward to celebrating with you.

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

Honouring Leadership, Legacy, and Impact 

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The Indigenous Business Award – Award of Distinction 

The Award of Distinction is the highest honour within the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program. It recognizes a leader whose vision, influence, and lifetime achievements have shaped—and continue to shape—Indigenous business and economic development in British Columbia. 

This distinction celebrates far more than commercial success. It honours those who have strengthened the Indigenous economy across the province and set a powerful example for others to follow—whether through entrepreneurship, governance, advocacy, innovation, or community leadership. Recipients are mentors, changemakers, and pathfinders. Through integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to community, they inspire current and future generations to advance Indigenous prosperity in meaningful and lasting ways. 

A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration 

The Award of Distinction stands apart because it recognizes enduring influence. Honourees are celebrated for building enterprises, strengthening institutions, shaping policy, and advancing economic self-determination. Their leadership expands opportunity, reinforces Indigenous governance, and contributes to long-term community prosperity. 

Their impact reaches well beyond their own organizations or initiatives. They mentor emerging leaders, open doors across sectors, and demonstrate that economic success and community well-being are inseparable. 

Each recipient carries a story of vision, resilience, and responsibility. Together, they show how Indigenous leadership—in business, governance, and community development—can drive growth while reinforcing cultural strength and shared prosperity. 

Past Recipients of the Award of Distinction 

Since its inception, the Award of Distinction has celebrated an extraordinary group of leaders whose work spans business, governance, arts, advocacy, finance, and community development. Their contributions continue to resonate across British Columbia and beyond: 

2009 – Dorothy Grant & Angelique Merasty Levac 
2010 – Dolly (Watts) McRae & John Harper 
2011 – Chief Clarence Louie 
2012 – Chief Councillor Garry Reece 
2013 – Chief Commissioner Sophie Pierre & Ruth Williams 
2014 – Councillor Garry Feschuk 
2015 – James Walkus 
2016 – Robert Louie 
2017 – Chief Gibby Jacob 
2018 – Chief Gordon Planes 
2019 – Paulette Flamond 
2020 – Carol Anne Hilton 
2021 – Ken Cameron 
2022 – Chief David Jimmie 
2023 – Teara Fraser 
2024 – Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik) 
2025 – Harold Calla 

Together, these recipients reflect the diversity, strength, and vision of Indigenous leadership across sectors. Their collective legacy underscores the purpose of the Award of Distinction: to recognize those whose life’s work has advanced Indigenous prosperity while clearing the path for others to follow. 

As the Indigenous Business Award program continues to evolve, the Award of Distinction remains a powerful reminder that meaningful economic progress is built on vision, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to community. We extend our sincere gratitude to each Award of Distinction recipient for leading the way—setting the standard for excellence and lighting the path for generations to come. 

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

What Can Leadership Look Like When Women Lead

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International Women’s Day is an opportunity to pause and recognize the women whose leadership strengthens British Columbia in lasting, tangible ways. Across sectors and communities, women are shaping the cultural, social and economic fabric of this province — often without seeking recognition. 

Through BC Achievement Foundation programming we have had the honour of celebrating remarkable women over the past 23 years, whose contributions reflect integrity, vision and sustained commitment. 

In First Nations art, Sgaanjaad Sherri Dick was recognized for her excellence in Haida weaving and regalia creation, revitalizing and advancing traditional knowledge through meticulous craftsmanship. Her work ensures that Haida design, technique and story are preserved, practiced and lived.  

Rachelle Chinnery, recipient of the Applied Art + Design award, was honoured for her thoughtful and innovative design practice that bridges functionality and aesthetics. Her ceramics are made to complement and enhance a lifestyle that is contemplative and appreciative of a natural pristine environment. 

Dr. Danièle Behn Smith received the BC Reconciliation Award for her leadership in advancing Indigenous relations within healthcare, creating meaningful partnerships grounded in respect and accountability. Her work has focused on systemic change, fostering relationships and collaborations to identify and eliminate racism in programs and services, while also promoting increased Indigenous cultural knowledge. 

Community leadership often unfolds quietly, but its impact is profound. Robin Dawes, a Community Award recipient, transformed the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club through personal and invaluable contributions. Her dedication strengthened programming, expanded participation and revitalized a community institution.  

And guiding the work of BC Achievement itself is Dr. Judith Sayers, Cloy-e-iis, a respected leader and member of the BC Achievement’s Board. Her lifelong commitment to Indigenous governance, economic development and the advancement of rights continues to shape conversations across the province. Her example underscores that leadership is about upholding responsibility. 

What connects these women is a shared commitment to strengthening community, culture and opportunity. They lead because there is work to be done. They create because continuity matters. They build because future generations are watching. 

International Women’s Day reminds us that progress is carried forward by individuals willing to step up — and stay engaged. Recognition does not define their impact, but it ensures that excellence is visible. It tells a broader story about what leadership can look like: collaborative, principled, creative and enduring. 

Today, we honour the remarkable women recognized through BC Achievement’s programs and the countless others whose contributions continue every day. 

When women lead, communities thrive. And when we take the time to recognize that leadership, we strengthen our collective future. 

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

With Gratitude to our Nominators 

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The 2026 award nominations are now officially closed. 

To everyone who took the time to submit a nomination — thank you. 

At BC Achievement, our work begins with you. Our programs exist because individuals across the province choose to recognize excellence and bring forward the names, stories and accomplishments of those shaping British Columbia in meaningful ways. Recognition is not possible without nominators. It is a partnership — and an essential one. 

Whether you nominated a colleague, a community leader, a business owner, an artist, or put your own name forward, your effort matters. Recognizing excellence requires thoughtfulness. It takes care to gather references, stories and details that reflect the true scope of someone’s contribution. It takes courage to step into recognition. And it takes belief — belief that this work deserves to be seen. 

Thank you for that belief. 

Each year, your nominations remind us that extraordinary work is happening in every corner of the province — often quietly, often without expectation of acknowledgement. People are strengthening communities through service and leadership. They are advancing reconciliation. They are creating powerful First Nations art that holds history, story and identity. They are shaping applied art + design that blends beauty with purpose. They are building Indigenous businesses that generate opportunity, prosperity and self-determination. 

These contributions deserve to be honoured — and they are only visible to us because you take the time to shine a light on them. 

Most recipients do not seek recognition. They are focused on the work itself: the community meeting, the carved mask, the design studio, the storefront, the boardroom, the long road of advocacy. They show up because it matters. 

Recognition does not change the heart of that work. But it does something important. It tells a broader story about who we are and what we value in this province. Awards are not about elevating one person above others; they are about lifting up examples that inspire us all and reflect the strength of our collective communities. 

If you missed the 2026 deadline, you can participate in next year’s program. Nominations for the 2027 award programs are open year-round. There is no need to wait for a formal call. When you see excellence — when you witness impact — when you encounter someone whose work strengthens British Columbia in meaningful ways — nominate them. Or consider putting your own name forward. 

Too often, remarkable contributions go unrecognized simply because no one took the step to submit a nomination. 

To every 2026 nominator: thank you. Your time, attention and commitment to recognition are fundamental to the work we undertake together. Because of you, those advancing reconciliation, leading in art, design and business, and strengthening communities across BC will be seen and celebrated. 

We look forward to sharing the 2026 award recipients in the months ahead — and to continuing this important work with you in 2027. 

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

Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun Lets’lo:tseltun: New Works and Exhibition

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Photo: Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun, 2025 Polygon First Nations Art Award of Distinction

In 2025, Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun of Cowichan (Hul’q’umi’num Coast Salish) and Okanagan (Syilx) descent, was honoured by BC Achievement with the Polygon First Nations Art Award of Distinction in recognition of his outstanding contribution to contemporary First Nations art.  

For over four decades, Lawrence has used painting, installation, and performance to challenge colonial narratives, confront systemic injustices, and assert Indigenous sovereignty. His work is both politically charged and artistically groundbreaking—often combining traditional Coast Salish aesthetics with surrealist and pop art influences to powerful effect.  His art reshapes how Indigenous identity, memory, and resistance are expressed. Recently, the BC Achievement team visited Lawrence in his studio, where he shared his latest artistic explorations and shared the inspirations that continue to drive his practice. 

A New Work in Progress: Nighttime Okanagan Memories 

At the centre of his studio stands a massive, yet-to-be-named canvas that Lawrence is currently painting. Drawing on memories of the Okanagan, this piece evokes a nighttime landscape where trees slowly emerge from darkness, copper shields appear in the foreground, and ovoid forms recur throughout the composition. 

Rather than simply depicting a literal scene, the painting feels like a meditation on place, memory, and the emotional resonance of land that is deeply familiar yet constantly shifting. 

Photo: Rup Grewal, Program Director, Polygon First Nations Art Award

Karen: A Powerful Cultural Statement 

Alongside this new work, Lawrence recently completed a provocative piece titled Karen, which marks a departure from his signature visual language. The work confronts the cultural figure of the “Karen” — individuals who vocally claim unfairness while opposing minority rights and benefitting from the self-evident advantages of white privilege. 

With Karen, Lawrence uses art to challenge dominant cultural narratives and prompt reflection on how privilege and resistance intersect in contemporary society. 

New Exhibition: Floor Opener in Kelowna 

This season, Lawrence’s work takes on public life in a new way with a solo exhibition at the Kelowna Art Gallery. Titled Floor Opener, the show runs from January 24 to May 31, 2026. 

Floor Opener brings together bold, uncompromising works that confront colonial suppression, environmental degradation, and Indigenous sovereignty. Named for a ceremonial role that invites presence and shared knowledge into a gathering, the exhibition itself functions as an invitation to engage deeply with history, place, and the ongoing social realities Indigenous peoples continue to navigate. 

Art That Matters Now 

On the horizon, Lawrence is also beginning work on a large painting that will address the fentanyl crisis — a work that promises to carry the same urgency, empathy, and Indigenous perspective that has defined his art for decades. 

Whether in his studio or on the walls of a gallery, Lawrence Paul’s work remains rooted in community, history, and the pressing social issues of our time. It is a testament to the power of contemporary Indigenous art to influence, challenge, and inspire. It serves as evidence of his status as one of BC’s most outspoken and influential contemporary First Nations artists. 

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

More Than Awards: How BC Achievement Strengthens Community and Belonging

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Photo: Serena Caner, 2025 Community Award Recipient

BC Achievement’s work is delivered through its five provincial award programs. In reality, what we do reaches far beyond ceremonies, recipients, and annual celebrations. At its heart, BC Achievement is a long-term commitment to shaping identity, expanding cultural networks, and stewarding inclusion across British Columbia. 

So much of the work that strengthens our communities happens quietly. It’s the artist preserving language through their practice. The business owner creating opportunity where few existed before. The volunteer who shows up every day, without recognition, to support others. These efforts are meaningful, transformative — and too often invisible to the wider public. 

That’s where BC Achievement steps in. 

We act as an intermediary, translating the remarkable accomplishments of British Columbians for broader audiences. Through storytelling, film, media, and public recognition, we help ensure that the impact of individuals and groups is understood not just within their own communities, but by funders, decision-makers, and leaders across the province. 

Photo: Pam Baker (Himikalas/Sewid-duuk)2025 Indigenous Business Award Recipient

By making invisible achievements visible, we help shift narratives. We expand who is seen as a leader. We redefine what success looks like. And we ensure that excellence — in all its forms — is recognized and valued. 

This work matters. 

When people see themselves reflected in stories of achievement, it builds confidence and possibility. It tells young people their dreams are valid. It shows communities that their efforts are seen. Recognition becomes a powerful tool for belonging and mental wellbeing — reinforcing that everyone has something meaningful to contribute. 

BC Achievement’s goal is simple, but profound: to elevate excellence so it inspires excellence in others. 

Each story we share creates a ripple effect. One person’s recognition sparks ambition in another. One community’s celebration strengthens collective pride. Over time, these ripples build stronger, more connected communities across the province. 

Our award programs may be the most visible expression of this work — but they are only the beginning. The real impact lives in the stories told, the networks formed, and the sense of belonging that grows when people feel seen. 

Because when we recognize remarkable, we build community. 

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

ONNI: A Multi-Year Partner Supporting Indigenous Business Excellence 

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The Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program is strengthened by partners who demonstrate a long-term commitment to Indigenous economic growth. ONNI is one such partner—an organization whose multi-year support reflects a shared belief in the power of Indigenous-led businesses and the importance of building a more inclusive and resilient economy in British Columbia.  

With building at the core of their work, ONNI is a real estate development company employing thousands of people, with a mission to plan for the future and give back to the communities they serve. 

Through their continued partnership, ONNI has played an important role in supporting the IBA program’s mission to recognize, celebrate, and elevate Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses across the province. This sustained investment helps ensure that Indigenous business excellence is not only acknowledged but meaningfully supported through increased visibility, credibility, and opportunity. 

ONNI’s multi-year commitment speaks to the value they place on relationship-building and cross-cultural collaboration. By standing alongside Indigenous entrepreneurs and the IBA program over multiple years, ONNI demonstrates an understanding that economic reconciliation is achieved through consistency, respect, and shared purpose. 

The Indigenous Business Award program exists because of partners like ONNI—organizations that recognize Indigenous businesses as key contributors to a diverse and growing economy and understand that long-term impact is created through sustained support. 

We thank ONNI for their leadership, partnership, and ongoing commitment to Indigenous business excellence. Your support continues to help build Indigenous entrepreneurship and contributes to a more inclusive economic future for British Columbia. 

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

Year in Review: September 2024–August 2025 

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As we step into a new year, BC Achievement is reflecting on the milestones and achievements outlined in our 2024-2025 Annual Report (September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2025).  

During this period, BC Achievement continued to strengthen its role as a platform for recognizing leadership, creativity, and community impact. Over the past year, the Foundation focused on expanding reach, deepening partnerships, and ensuring that excellence across British Columbia is recognized with care, integrity, and purpose. 

BC Achievement’s five award programs — the Community Award, Indigenous Business Award, Polygon Award in First Nations Art, Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design, and the BC Reconciliation Award — reflect the breadth of achievement across the province. Together, they recognize individuals and organizations whose work strengthens communities, advances reconciliation, supports creative practice, and contributes to a more inclusive and connected British Columbia. 

Partnerships remained central to the Foundation’s work. This year marked the introduction of RBC as BC Achievement’s inaugural Platform Partner, providing cross-program support and reinforcing shared values around leadership, recognition, and community investment. Long-standing partners continued their commitment, while new supporters helped strengthen program sustainability and reach. 

As Board Chair Walter Pela reflected, “Each year at BC Achievement, we are reminded that the real inspiration for our work comes from the awardees themselves. Their creativity, leadership, and commitment to community are what bring our mission to life.” That perspective guided both governance and programming throughout the year, ensuring that recognition remains grounded in the lived experiences and contributions of British Columbians. 

Alumni engagement, mentorship opportunities, and cross-program gatherings helped extend recognition beyond ceremonies, creating space for shared learning and relationship-building. These efforts reinforce the Foundation’s belief that recognition is most meaningful when it supports ongoing connection and impact. 

Looking ahead, BC Achievement remains focused on its purpose: to elevate excellence, share success, and inspire change. The past year demonstrated the continued relevance of recognition as a tool for strengthening communities and highlighting leadership across sectors. As the Foundation moves forward, it does so guided by the people it honours — and by a commitment to reflecting the full range of achievement across British Columbia. 

The 2024-2025 Annual Report is available online. We invite you to explore it and learn more about the incredible individuals and organizations who have been recognized. Their stories are a testament to the spirit of innovation, resilience, and generosity that defines British Columbia. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported BC Achievement over the past year—our partners, sponsors, volunteers, and, most importantly, the nominees and recipients who inspire us daily. Together, we celebrate excellence and build a brighter future. 

Stay connected with us as we continue to honor and uplift those making a difference across our province. Here’s to another year of inspiring achievement! 

#recognizeremarkable

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

BC Achievement Award Programs: Nominations for 2026 accepted until Feb 15th! 

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Nominate for the 2026 BC Achievement award programs! Any nominations submitted before February 15, 2026, will be included in jury deliberations. If your nomination is completed after this deadline, it will automatically roll over to the following year’s consideration. To make sure your nominee is in the running for the upcoming award cycle, submit a nomination online at bcachievement.com. 

Helpful Tips for Nominating 

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

Award Programs to Recognize Remarkable British Columbians 

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

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

If you know someone whose work deserves recognition, don’t miss the February 15, 2026 deadline.  

Join Us in Celebrating Remarkable People all Year Long 

Nominations can be made online at bcachievement.com. Get involved, celebrate excellence in BC, and nominate!  

#recognizeremarkable 

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

We Want to Hear from You: Starting 2026 Together 

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Photo: Debra Rogers, 2025 Community Award recipient

A new year always brings a moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead—and as we step into 2026, we’re starting the year with a simple but important question: what would you like to hear about from us? 

This is our first blog post of the year, and rather than telling you what’s coming next, we want to open the door and invite you in. Our programs, stories, and celebrations are built around people—your ideas, your experiences, and your voices. Now feels like the perfect time to listen. 

Are there stories that inspire you and that you’d love to see more of here? Perhaps you’re drawn to personal journeys—moments of challenge, growth, or recognition that remind you why these programs matter. Maybe you’d like us to spotlight past recipients and share what recognition has meant for them over time. Or perhaps you’re curious about the “how” behind the work: how programs take shape, how selections are made, and how impact is measured. 

We also hear often that the nomination process can feel mysterious. Would it be helpful to read more about how nominations work, what makes a strong nomination, or what happens after a form is submitted? Are there parts of the process you’d like us to explain more clearly, or questions you’ve always wanted to ask? 

Behind every program is a dedicated team, and we’re curious—would you like to get to know the staff who bring this work to life? From program directors to communications and operations, ours is a small but mighty team, working quietly behind the scenes. 

If you’re an alumnus or alumna of one of our programs, we especially want to hear from you. How did recognition impact you—personally or professionally? Would you like to be involved as a nominator, a mentor, or an ambassador who helps spread the word? Would you be open to being featured in a future blog post and sharing your story with others who may be earlier in their journey? 

And if you’re a potential nominee, we’re curious too. How can we reach you more effectively? Where do you get your information—newsletters, social media, word of mouth, community networks? Knowing this helps us ensure opportunities don’t pass people by. 

For nominators, your time and care mean everything. How did you find the nomination form? Did the process feel worthwhile? Do you feel your investment helps shine a light where it truly matters? 

There’s no single right answer—only honest ones. You can email us, send us a DM on our social media channels, or give us a call. However, you choose to reach out, please know this: we genuinely want to hear from you. 

Here’s to starting 2026 together—by listening first. 

#recognizeremarkable 

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