Category: Blog

Building Bridges: How Partnerships Spotlight Reconciliation Efforts

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The British Columbia Reconciliation Award represents BC Achievement’s mission and values, underscored by a deep and urgent sense of purpose. It is a mission shared by the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of BC, who has chosen reconciliation as one of the key priorities of her mandate. This commitment includes participation in promotion of public awareness of the ongoing journey of reconciliation. 

The BC Reconciliation Award draws inspiration from the work of the Honourable Steven Point Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl] 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and a founder of the Award. His hand-carved red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, was created as an enduring symbol of Reconciliation, recognizing, in his words that “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” to move forward. 

Members of the organizing committee, along with Honourable Steven Point, led in the creation and design of the BC Reconciliation Award, ensuring the award is founded on Indigenous culture and knowledge. 

The reconciliation journey aims to strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Recognizing past colonial injustices and healing those wounds with positive actions will lead to a brighter future. Lasting and meaningful change will take continued, consistent and committed effort. The partnership between the BC Achievement Foundation and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC elevates those leaders who inspire and teaches us all how to paddle in the same canoe. 

We look forward to celebrating the 2024 Reconciliation Awardees next month. Learn more about the BC Reconciliation Award and recognize remarkable individuals, groups and organizations by nominating for the 2025 award program. 

Hurry, nominations are accepted until February 15, 2025 at bcachievement.com 

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

Beyond the Ordinary Exhibition

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Discover the extraordinary talent of British Columbia in the Beyond the Ordinary Exhibition, an artistic showcase brought to you by the BC Achievement Foundation. This exhibition highlights the spirit and alumni of two art programs.  

The Polygon First Nations Art Award has honoured over 100 artists for their outstanding contributions to artistic excellence, recognizing work deeply rooted in First Nations traditions while fostering storytelling, mentorship, and cultural engagement. The Sam Carter Applied Art + Design Award celebrates functional art, showcasing pieces with practical applications that enrich the cultural and economic fabric of BC. 

Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 25, 2025 
Location: Bentall Centre 3, 595 Burrard Street, Vancouver 

Following a week-long exhibit at The Roundhouse in Vancouver last month, select pieces have been curated for showcase at Hudson Properties, Bentall 3 Tower starting November 25. The exhibition features works of 2024 alumni of both of BC Achievement’s art programs and includes Stephanie Anderson, Kelly Cannell, Andy Everson, James Hart (71DANsuu), Himikalas Pam Baker, Brent Comber, Robin DuPont, and Meghan Weeks. 

Curators Sheila Hall and Ray Hartley have created a stunning display of some of BC’s best artists through a respectful approach and eye for detail. This showcase is a new BC Achievement initiative, bringing alumni art to public spaces by collaborating with partners. The exhibition at the Bentall Centre provides an additional opportunity for the public to experience the incredible work of BC Achievement alumni in a new and dynamic space, while raising awareness of the foundation’s award programs and providing exposure for the artists. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the artistic brilliance of BC’s creators. Visit the Beyond the Ordinary Exhibition at Bentall Centre 3 and immerse yourself in the stories and creativity that shape our cultural identity. 

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

Recognize Remarkable 

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Join us to RECOGNIZE REMARKABLE – and nominate for one of five award programs that BC Achievement presents. 

Nominations are now open for all 2025 BC Achievement Award programs: 

Community Award 
BC Reconciliation Award 
Indigenous Business Award 
Polygon Award First Nations Art 
Sam Carter Award Applied Art + Design 

For more than 20 years, BC Achievement has recognized individuals and organizations making a difference in British Columbia, sharing their stories to inspire change, build community pride, and encourage others to follow their lead. 

Why Nominate Someone?  

Because recognizing achievement is about more than celebrating success – it’s about amplifying stories that inspire, fostering pride in our communities, and shining a light on those who drive change and create lasting impact. 

Recognizing achievement shares the impact of the work being done and ensures it reaches a wider audience. By nominating someone, you’re helping to honour their contributions and fostering a culture of inspiration and progress. James Nexw’Kalus’Xwalacktun Harry, a 2021 First Nations Art Award recipient, emphasized the importance of showcasing those who take risks and follow their passions to inspire the next generation, “We must continue to inspire the next generation of Indigenous people to pursue their dreams. Showcasing people who took risks and followed their passion will continue to inspire the future generations to do the same.” 

Past awardee Kiran Toor, a 2023 Community Award recipient, highlights the value of these awards, noting how recognition strengthens bonds within communities and encourages growth and well-being. “Recognizing excellence in community service…inspires, encourages participation, strengthens bonds, raises awareness, and sustains the impact of community initiatives, ultimately leading to the growth and well-being of communities.” 

Your nomination ensures that remarkable individuals get the recognition they deserve, encouraging others to follow in their footsteps. Brent Comber, who received the 2024 Sam Carter Award Award of Distinction , described awards as “a gift, a way to show that it’s possible to create a career doing what you love.”  

The award programs celebrate achievements that impact British Columbia’s cultural, social, and economic landscape. Whether fostering reconciliation, preserving cultural traditions, or driving innovation, the honourees contribute meaningfully to the province’s future.  

Nominations are open until February 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM. To nominate someone whose work deserves recognition, visit Recognize Remarkable.

By submitting a nomination, you’re sharing stories that matter and helping to celebrate the people who make BC remarkable. 

#recognizeremarkable 

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

BC Achievement 2024 Indigenous Business Award of Distinction Recipient Robert J. Dennis Sr. Emchayiik

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Photo: Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik), 2024 Indigenous Business Award of Distinction recipient

Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik) is a distinguished leader who exemplifies the essence of the Indigenous Business (IBA) Award of Distinction, which he received last month at the 16th annual IBA Gala Dinner. Having dedicated his life to fostering Indigenous business activities for his Nation and with a career spanning decades, Robert has played a pivotal role in advancing the economic and political landscape of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN).   

Serving as elected Chief Councillor for HFN from 1995 to 2011 and again from 2015 until his final term in June 2023, Robert’s leadership has been marked by a commitment to the prosperity and self-determination of his people. Prior to his tenure as Chief Councillor, Robert spent 12 years as a Councillor and three years as Band Manager, laying the groundwork for the significant achievements that would follow.   

As HFNs Chief Negotiator for 14 years, Robert spearheaded the implementation of the Maa-Nulth modern treaty in 2011, a landmark achievement that has allowed the Nation to benefit from self-government and transition from a rights-based discourse to one centered on economic reconciliation. His vision for a stronger future is rooted in an economic development and business-based agenda, steering away from entitlement and towards sustainable progress.   

Beyond his political service, Robert’s background as a fisherman and logger provides him with a profound understanding of resource management in his Territory. This hands-on experience fuelled his drive to learn from the past and embrace a more inclusive approach to achieving shared goals. Robert states “We can’t worry about what happened in the past. We can learn from the past, but we can’t worry about it. We can’t blame people for what happened, we can’t blame other jurisdictions, we can’t blame other things outside of our Nation. We can only focus on what we have inside of our Nation and take it step by step.” He is committed to forging innovative and unique partnerships with businesses, believing that collaboration is key to unlocking new opportunities for the HFN.   

Robert embodies the HFN Sacred Principles: ʔiisaak – Greater Respect; ʔuuʔałuk – Taking Care Of; and Hišuk ma c̕awak – Everything is One. His perfect combination of vision, tenacity, and courage has made him an exemplary leader who continues to inspire and create lasting impacts in his community. In his own words, Robert says “I always say, rather than complain about it, what are you going to do about it? What can you do to change it? If there’s a plan that needs to be developed, do it. If there’s a capital investment that’s needed and if it’s viable do it. If it’s worthwhile business opportunity that’s worth building just do it.”  

His work stands as a testament to the transformative power of economic reconciliation.   

Watch the short film produced by BC Achievement on the powerful work of Indigenous Business Award of Distinction Recipient 2024 Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik). 

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

Celebrating functional art through the 2024 Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design recipients 

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The 20th annual Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design will be celebrated in an award presentation and reception on Thursday, November 21! This award celebrates talented British Columbians who create exceptional functional art and design, from furniture and fashion to ceramics and jewellery, impacting our daily lives and strengthening the province’s creative economy. 

Join the Celebration 

BC Achievement is hosting a public presentation and reception to honour these talented creators on November 21. Tickets are available for $50 per person, so don’t miss this chance to connect with BC’s vibrant art and design community. Each awardee will be featured in short films highlighting their creative journeys and accomplishments. 

If you can’t attend, stop by the free exhibition at The Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver from November 18 to 24. This exhibit will feature both the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design recipients and the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art awardees. 

As Walter Pela, BC Achievement Foundation board chair, has expressed to the awardees, “Your dedication and creativity enrich our daily lives and elevate the cultural and economic fabric of our province. By celebrating your achievements, we highlight the essential role that art and design play in shaping our world.” 

Meet the 2024 Awardees 

This year’s recipients showcase remarkable talent and vision in their fields: 

Meghan Weeks – Jewellery, Vancouver – Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist 
Pam Baker – Fashion, West Vancouver 
Robin DuPont – Ceramics, Winlaw 
Brent Comber – Furniture, North Vancouver – Award of Distinction

Chosen by an independent jury of experts, including industry leaders from Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Western Living magazine, and past award recipients, these artists and designers represent the best in applied art and design. 

The foundation thanks the Sam Carter award donors, sponsors and community partners, including BC Ferries, Denbigh Fine Art Services, and The Roundhouse, whose collective support helps bring these awards to life. 

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

Celebrate excellence and meet the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art recipients Nov 19 @ The Roundhouse

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The BC Achievement Foundation recently announced the talented recipients of the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art. The annual program celebrates exceptional contributions to First Nations art across traditional, contemporary, and media-based practices, recognizing artists who bring their culture to life through their creativity. 

Join the Celebration 

BC Achievement is hosting a ticketed award ceremony and dinner on Tuesday, November 19 at The Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver. Each artist will be celebrated with a short film highlighting their achievements. Tickets are available now—don’t miss this chance to celebrate these incredible artists! 

If you can’t make it to the event, there will be a free public exhibition showcasing the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design Award recipients. The exhibit will be open from November 18 to 24 at The Roundhouse, offering a unique opportunity to see these artists’ work up close. 

Each year, the First Nations Art program highlights artists whose work resonates deeply within their communities and beyond. As Walter Pela, BC Achievement Foundation Chair, expressed, “Your exceptional artistry, innovation, and dedication are remarkable. Your journey enhances cultural expression and strengthens the enduring legacy of First Nations art in the province.” 

Now in its 18th year, the program is a tribute to those who honour their craft, maintain cultural connections, and inspire others to explore their creative paths. The recipients of the 2024 Polygon Award include: 

Stephanie Anderson, Witsuwit’en, Terrace – Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist 
Kelly Cannell, Musqueam, Vancouver 
Andy Everson, K’omoks, Courtenay 

James Hart, 7IDANsuu, Haida, of Haida Gwaii will receive the Award of Distinction, an honour decided in consultation with community leaders and the BC Achievement board. 

Meet the Jury  

This year’s recipients were selected by a panel of past awardees, including Shawn Hunt (Heiltsuk), Maynard Johnny Jr. (Coast Salish / Kwakwaka’wakw), and Lisa Hageman Yahgujanaas (Haida), guided by advisors Connie Watts and Brenda Crabtree. 

The Polygon Award in First Nations Art is made possible through the support of Vancouver-based Polygon Homes, with additional sponsorship from TD and community partners: BC Ferries, Denbigh Fine Art Services, and The Roundhouse. 

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

Happy #NonProfitDay! Understanding how BC Achievement drives real change 

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Photo: Cathryn Wilson, Executive Director, BC Achievement Foundation

As a non-profit, BC Achievement Foundation is proud to celebrate and support the amazing organizations building stronger, more resilient communities across BC. From advancing arts and culture to environmental and social progress, non-profits are driving real change and positive impact across our province.  

if you’re interested in what it looks like to grow a foundation and stay connected to the community you serve, you’re going to love this conversation on the Discovery Pod podcast episode featuring our very own Cathryn Wilson, BC Achievement’s Executive Director! 

Interviewer Doug Nelson (President and Manager, The Discovery Group) starts by noting that BC Achievement Foundation is an unique organization both in its purpose and its structure and there’s a lot that people can learn from how Cathryn and her colleagues do their work and serve their purpose. 

Cathryn shares her insights into the foundation’s journey and the importance of storytelling. “The foundation was started over two decades ago so we’re just entering our 21st year. Our job is to serve the people of British Columbia and to tell their stories – we’re in the business the storytelling. We lift people up, we shine a light on the work that they are doing, and we do so with the intent to inspire others. It goes beyond just telling the stories of excellence; it’s so that others can see themselves in these stories and follow these leads of these remarkable British Columbians.” 

From discussing how leadership plays a pivotal role in uplifting communities, to growing a team, to fostering inclusion and recognition, this conversation delves into the strategies that have helped BC Achievement drive impactful change and inspire excellence while strengthening communities across the province. 

To hear more about BC Achievement’s work and mission through the words of Cathryn Wilson, listen to https://thediscoverygroup.ca/the-discovery-pod-podcast/ 

BC Achievement is honouring BC’s community heroes and building a legacy of excellence. Here’s to the non-profits shaping a brighter future for us all. #BCNonprofits #NonProfitDay  

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

How partnerships are advancing reconciliation efforts in British Columbia 

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Photo: Detailed image of BC Reconciliation paddle designed by Jamie Gentry, 2022 Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist

For nearly two decades, BC Achievement has been dedicated to recognizing and elevating excellence across British Columbia, and its work has always extended beyond individual accolades. By celebrating individuals and communities that inspire positive change, the organization helps spark waves of transformation that ripple outward, enriching lives and building a more just and inclusive society. 

A key part of this mission has been BC Achievement’s commitment to forging meaningful partnerships that reflect an evolving focus on new areas of excellence, particularly in the field of reconciliation. One such partnership is with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, which has been instrumental in the creation and advancement of the British Columbia Reconciliation Award. This award honours those who, through deep respect and understanding, are advancing reconciliation in our province. 

Reconciliation is not just a word; it is a shared mission deeply embedded in BC Achievement’s values and programming. The BC Reconciliation Award, launched in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC, represents this mission. Since the beginning of the Honourable Janet Austin’s mandate, reconciliation has been one of Her Honour’s top priorities, and she has actively promoted public awareness around the need for continued efforts toward healing and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. 

The award takes inspiration from the vision of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], the 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and founder of the BC Reconciliation Award. His red cedar canoe, Shxwtitostel, symbolizes the journey of reconciliation. As he aptly puts it, “we are all in the same canoe” and must “paddle together” if we are to move forward. This powerful metaphor speaks to the collective effort required to address the wounds of colonialism and build a more equitable future for all. 

The creation of the BC Reconciliation Award itself was guided by members of the organizing committee, alongside Honourable Steven Point, to ensure that it reflects the knowledge, culture, and wisdom of Indigenous peoples. It is a fitting representation of the shared journey of reconciliation, which involves recognizing the past, taking responsibility for its impacts, and making tangible efforts to heal. 

True reconciliation strengthens relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. It requires us to recognize the enduring legacy of colonial injustices and take bold, positive actions to foster understanding, healing, and solidarity. Meaningful change comes from sustained commitment and collaboration—a value that lies at the heart of the partnership between BC Achievement and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC. 

As we prepare to announce the 2024 BC Reconciliation Awardees, we reflect on the lessons learned from previous years. The work of these inspiring leaders continues to teach us how to paddle in the same canoe, working together toward a more inclusive and equitable future for British Columbia. 

To learn more about the BC Reconciliation Award and the incredible work being done by past recipients, visit the BC Achievement website. Stay tuned for the 2024 announcement, as we continue to highlight the exceptional individuals and communities advancing reconciliation in our province. 

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

Join us at an exhibition celebrating First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design awardees 

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A public art exhibition is a space for shared knowledge, dialogue, and community connection. Starting on Monday, November 18, BC Achievement is honoured to host an exhibition showcasing the remarkable works of the 2024 recipients of its two annual art programs: the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design. 

Since its inception in 2006, the Polygon Award in First Nations Art has honoured the intersection of art, culture, and tradition within First Nations communities. The award recognizes artistic excellence in both traditional and contemporary visual arts by First Nations artists, fostering an authentic space for community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling. This program ensures that rich traditions are passed on to younger generations and shared with a broader audience throughout British Columbia. To date, the award has recognized the incredible work of 99 outstanding First Nations artists. 

Similarly, the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design (formerly the Carter Wosk Award) has highlighted the exceptional work of artists and designers whose functional art enhances daily life while enriching the province’s cultural and economic landscape. The award celebrates British Columbians whose innovative contributions to applied art and design make a meaningful impact on how we live and interact with our world. So far, this program has honored over 87 talented artists and designers, each contributing to the cultural fabric of BC. 

This exhibition offers a powerful platform to showcase the artistic talent of these awardees and elevate the conversation around art, culture, and innovation in British Columbia.  

We invite you to experience the 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art and Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design awardees’ works at a public exhibition held at The Roundhouse in Vancouver. The exhibition will run from Monday, November 18 to Sunday, November 24, open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, with special hours on Tuesday and Thursday, when it will close at 12 pm. 

Stay tuned for the upcoming announcement of the awardees later this month on BC Achievement’s website and social media channels. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the incredible talent and creativity of BC’s artists! 

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

Celebrate Indigenous Excellence: Watch the 2024 Indigenous Business Award Gala Live 

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Photo: 2024 IBA Recipient, Ahous Adventures

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala, a night of celebration and inspiration as we honour the year’s exceptional Indigenous entrepreneurs!

As we gather for this annual showcase of Indigenous business excellence, the 2024 IBA Gala promises to be an evening full of recognition, success stories, and meaningful connections. Indigenous innovation continues to drive economic growth and cultural resilience, and this event offers a powerful platform to celebrate these achievements while fostering partnerships across industries. 

The evening will bring together 600 guests to celebrate the awardees of the 2024 IBA program, recognizing the businesses that have demonstrated perseverance, creativity, and leadership in their fields. For those unable to attend, the event will be livestreamed on BC Achievement’s website ensuring that everyone can take part in this night of celebration. Gather your family and friends and create a viewing night! 

The excitement doesn’t end there! Starting October 8, BC Achievement will release eight short films, one on each of the IBA Awardees, showcasing their incredible journeys, challenges, and aspirations. These films capture the spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurship and provide a closer look at the impact these businesses have on their communities and beyond. These short films will be available for free on BC Achievement’s website and YouTube channel, making them easily accessible to anyone interested in learning more about the inspiring individuals being honoured. 

Join us online for the IBA Gala and be part of a night celebrating the leaders shaping the future of Indigenous business. 

Mark your calendars for October 7 and October 8. Whether you’re watching live from the comfort of your home or catching the films on demand, you’re in for a night of inspiration and celebration as we honour the Indigenous entrepreneurs who are driving change and shaping the future. 

Tune in to the livestream on BC Achievement’s website at 6:30 PM on October 7 and be part of this incredible event! 

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