Join us to RECOGNIZE REMARKABLE – and nominate for one (or more!) of the five award programs that BC Achievement presents. There are only three days left to submit a nomination for any one of BC Achievement’s award programs! The deadline to nominate online is February 15th, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
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.
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 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.
To nominate someone whose work deserves recognition, visit BC Achievement’s website. 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.
Photo: Recipients and Selection Committee members of the 2024 BC Reconciliation Award
The 2024 BC Reconciliation Award ceremony, held at Government House in Victoria on January 23, 2025, was marked by a respectful and traditional presentation.
The award program honoured four outstanding individuals and two remarkable organizations whose dedication to reconciliation shines through their work. These recipients embody the values of truth, integrity, respect, and collaboration, making meaningful contributions to fostering understanding, addressing historical injustices, and building strong partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities across British Columbia.
Individual Recipients
Sdahl Ḵ’awaas, Lucy Bell (Old Massett)
Corporal (Retired) Chris Gosselin, M.O.M. (West Kelowna)
Gloria Morgan (Enderby)
Phyllis Webstad (Williams Lake)
Organization Recipients
Qwelmínte Secwépemc (Kamloops)
Usma Nuu-chah-nulth Family and Child Services, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council (Port Alberni)
The 2024 award recipients serve as inspiring examples of what is possible when individuals and organizations commit to reconciliation in meaningful ways. Their efforts honour the past and help create a more inclusive and just future for all British Columbians.
The British Columbia Reconciliation Award draws inspiration from the work of Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], the 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. Parliament 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, the 2024 recipients received a print of a canoe paddle designed by Tsm’syen/Nisga’a artist Shawna Kiesman to commemorate their award. Shawna is the Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist recipient of the Polygon Award in First Nations Art. The paddle designed by Shawna was installed alongside previous BC Reconciliation Award paddles at Government House on November 5, 2024.
Reconciliation is an ongoing journey—one that requires listening, learning, and action. By celebrating these achievements, we recognize the power of truth and the enduring strength of Indigenous communities in shaping a more united and respectful society for all British Columbians.
2024 recipient Phyllis Webstad, speaking for all the awardees, shared her truth in telling her residential school experience along with her drive to tell her story through the Orange Shirt Day initiative. Following Phyllis’ moving remarks, T’esóts’en, Patrick Kelly, who served as Director of Ceremonies, announced that in recognition of Phyllis’ tenacity, courage and loving nature – in sharing her story of survival and incredible strength – the BC Reconciliation Award program will have a new category moving forward:
The Phyllis Webstad Emerging Leader in Reconciliation.
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: “in our children, in our young people, we have hope. They are the ones who will lead us forward, and we need to support and encourage them every step of the way”.
BC Achievement holds immense gratitude for Her Honour, Janet Austin and how she has worked closely with the Foundation to advance reconciliation in BC. She is a champion for the award programs BC Achievement administers and made reconciliation one of her mandates during her tenure. We look forward to partnering with the 31st Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Wendy Cocchia and her office on the continuation of the reconciliation journey.
Nominate someone or an organization worthy of the BC Reconciliation Award before the deadline of February 15, 2025 at bcachievement.com.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.
Photo: Angela Marston (Satuts Stsuhwum), Program Director, Indigenous Business Award
Last week, BC Achievement attended the BC Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering held in Vancouver. This pivotal event brought together leaders including program partners such as BC Assembly of First Nations and First Nations Summit to foster collaboration, build relationships, and begin conversations with government.
It was a remarkable event and gave us an opportunity to connect with BC Achievement friends and partners from across the province. We shared conversations on their initiatives and priorities and in turn, highlighted the Indigenous-focused award programs run by our foundation.
BC Achievement is dedicated to recognizing remarkable and celebrating the achievements of individuals, organizations, and communities across British Columbia. Through programs such as the Indigenous Business Award program, BC Achievement honours excellence, leadership, and community contributions, with a particular focus on celebrating the rich cultures of the First Peoples.
Through its programs, BC Achievement has highlighted the significant achievements of First Nation artists, leaders, and changemakers. The First Nation Art Award, for example, celebrates the creative excellence and cultural preservation led by Indigenous artists throughout BC.
The BC Reconciliation Award, in partnership with the Lieutenant Governor’s office, provides a space to recognize the work done by individuals and groups fostering reconciliation efforts with Indigenous peoples in BC.
These BC Achievement awards provide a platform for amplifying Indigenous voices and acknowledging their contributions to the cultural landscape of the province.
First Nations Leaders’ Gathering was a welcoming space and facilitated many connections. Including, the recipients of our in-person draw.
Congratulations to this year’s FNLG draw winners!!! Quentin Noel is the happy winner of two tickets to the 2025 IBA Gala and J Richard Hall won a custom gift basket accompanied with Indigenous World Wine.
Recognize someone Remarkable today and nominate before the deadline of February 15!!! Find the link to the nomination forms here.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.
As we step into a new year, BC Achievement is reflecting on the milestones and achievements outlined in our 2023-2024 Annual Report (September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2024). This past year has been one of remarkable progress, unwavering commitment, and inspiring recognition of individuals and organizations that continue to strengthen British Columbia through excellence in their respective communities of practice. Our annual report showcases the breadth of talent and dedication across the province, from artistic innovation and entrepreneurial ventures to community service and reconciliation efforts.
A Year of Impact and Growth
BC Achievement exists to uplift and celebrate those who make BC a better place through their work, creativity, and contributions ensuring their stories drive change and carve a path forward for others to follow. The 2023-2024 period was marked by an expanded outreach and meaningful engagement with communities throughout the province.
Through five award programs—the Indigenous Business Award, the Community Award, the Polygon Award in First Nations Art, the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design, and the BC Reconciliation Award—BC Achievement recognized outstanding individuals and businesses who exemplify leadership, innovation, and resilience. The 2023 -2024 recipients inspired us with their stories of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Expanding Our Reach
In addition to recognizing excellence, BC Achievement continued to prioritize accessibility and engagement. Through outreach initiatives, partnerships, and events, we have worked to ensure that our programs reflect the diversity and dynamism of BC. Our efforts to increase nominations from underrepresented regions and communities have been fruitful, resulting in a more inclusive celebration of achievement.
Looking Ahead
BC Achievement remains committed to its mission of honouring excellence and inspiring achievement. The annual report highlights the successes of the past year and serves as a roadmap for the future. We aim to deepen our impact, foster new partnerships, and continue celebrating the remarkable people who make BC a better place for all.
Read the Full Report
The 2023-2024 Annual Report is now 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.
Nominate for the 2025 BC Achievement award programs! Any nominations submitted before February 15, 2025 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 awards, 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, 2025 deadline to have them considered for next year’s award programs.
Join Us in Celebrating Remarkable People all Year Long
Nominations for all five BC Achievement award programs are open year-round. This change means you can recognize and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of BC’s entrepreneurs, community leaders, and artists at any time throughout the year. Whether it’s acknowledging innovative Indigenous business leaders or honouring community-driven achievements, this is your opportunity to highlight remarkable people from across the province whenever you see fit.
Photo: 2024 Community Award recipient, Coralie Nairn
As we step into the first days of 2025, January brings a renewed sense of purpose and opportunity across British Columbia. It’s a season marked by fresh beginnings—new goals, creative ambitions, entrepreneurial ventures, and a deepened commitment to building stronger communities. This time of transition invites us to reflect on past achievements and chart a bold course forward.
January is a time for personal growth and goal setting. Whether it’s committing to a healthier lifestyle, launching a long-anticipated project, or developing new skills, the new year represents a chance to push beyond limits and create meaningful change. For many, it’s a time to reset priorities and establish habits that align with personal values and long-term aspirations.
Entrepreneurs and creatives often find inspiration in the promise of a new year. Fresh ideas gain momentum, and communities benefit from the energy of those willing to take risks and innovate. Indigenous businesses, in particular, continue to be a growing part of BC’s economy—generating jobs, fostering innovation, and stimulating local economies. Likewise, artists channel the spirit of new beginnings into works that challenge perspectives, inspire dialogue, and enrich lives.
As routines settle after the holiday rush, January is also an ideal time for individuals to engage more deeply in community service. Acts of service—whether mentoring youth, organizing local events, or supporting charitable causes—foster empathy and a collective spirit of hope. They strengthen the social fabric and build a more inclusive, compassionate province.
This is also a perfect time to recognize those doing remarkable things in art, business, community service, and reconciliation efforts. Across BC, countless individuals and organizations are making an extraordinary impact.
January provides the opportunity not only to reflect on their contributions but also to celebrate them by submitting a nomination for one of BC Achievement’s five award programs. If you know someone whose work deserves recognition, now is the time to highlight their efforts.
The submission deadline for 2025 program nominations is February 15, 2025.
January stands as a gateway to new possibilities. Whether through personal development, innovation, artistic expression, or service, British Columbians have the chance to shape the future and uplift their communities.
For those seeking inspiration from individuals who have made a lasting impact, BC Achievement’s online archive of recipient films offers a rich source of motivation. These stories spotlight people and groups dedicated to positive change, providing a glimpse into the vibrant heart of our province. Join us in shining a light on these remarkable stories! #recognizeremarkable
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.
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.
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.
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.
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.
