Category: Blog

Celebrating Excellence: The Impact of BC Achievement Award Recipients

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British Columbia is home to extraordinary individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership shape our communities and inspire future generations. At BC Achievement, our mission is to honour those who make a lasting impact, whether through business, Indigenous art, community service, or reconciliation initiatives. These remarkable individuals and organizations are the heartbeat of our province, and their stories deserve to be shared and celebrated. 

Recognizing the Changemakers 

Each year, BC Achievement Foundation recognizes exceptional people who go above and beyond to strengthen the cultural and social fabric of our province. From Indigenous artists preserving their heritage through breathtaking works to entrepreneurs driving sustainable economic growth, our awardees exemplify the power of passion and perseverance. 

Take, for instance, the inspiring work of past award recipients like carver and cultural leader Dempsey Bob, whose contributions to Northwest Coast art have elevated Indigenous artistry on the global stage. Or the many community leaders who, through grassroots efforts, have uplifted marginalized voices and fostered inclusivity in their regions. Their commitment reminds us that true leadership is measured by impact, not titles. 

Why Recognition Matters 

Acknowledging and celebrating excellence is more than just an act of appreciation; it fuels progress. When we shine a light on those making a difference, we empower others to follow in their footsteps. Recognition provides encouragement, strengthens networks, and fosters collaboration. More importantly, it ensures that future generations have role models who embody the values of resilience, creativity, and service. 

Get Involved 

Do you know someone making a difference in British Columbia? Nominations for BC Achievement Awards open annually, and we encourage you to put forward individuals or organizations that exemplify excellence. Nominations are now open for the 2026 programs, so don’t miss the opportunity to recognize those who inspire and uplift our communities. By participating in this process, you play a crucial role in ensuring that those who contribute meaningfully to our society receive the recognition they deserve. 

Follow BC Achievement on social media and stay connected as we continue to spotlight the incredible achievements happening throughout the province. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant British Columbia—one story at a time. 

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

Saluting Our Sponsors: Teck Resources’ Impact on BC Achievement: Indigenous Business and the BC Reconciliation award programs 

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At BC Achievement, we’re in the business of telling stories, lifting people up and shining a light on those who go above and beyond in their communities. We believe that through storytelling, we can inspire others to follow in the footsteps of remarkable British Columbians and make a lasting and continuous impact. The stories we share honour individual excellence while showcasing the communities and places that shape these exceptional individuals. Our goal is to spark a movement that ignites positive change and carves out a path forward for others to follow. 

But we can’t do this alone. We are incredibly grateful to the sponsors who make this mission possible, who help us bring these stories of excellence into the spotlight, and who support the development of programs that recognize the outstanding work of British Columbians. 

The Power of Partnership: Teck’s Ongoing Commitment 

A significant sponsor in our journey has been Teck Resources (Teck), whose consistent support has been invaluable. Since 2010, Teck has been a proud sponsor of the Indigenous Business Award program, and over the last 15 years, it has become an integral part of our sponsorship family.  

In 2024, Teck took this partnership to new heights by becoming the inaugural sponsor of the BC Reconciliation Award program. 

Teck’s presentation sponsor involvement played a key role in the success of the 2024 BC Reconciliation Award ceremony, held in late January in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of BC. It was a truly inspired evening at Government House where the incredible work of the recipients was celebrated, lauded, and amplified. The support allowed the stories of the recipients to be shared far and wide through live video streaming, captured in the ceremony and made accessible throughout the province on BC Achievement’s website and YouTube channel. It’s a lasting tribute to those who inspire change and is part of the foundation’s online library archive (click here to watch!). 

The recipients of the BC Reconciliation Award are catalysts for broader transformation. Their work has a ripple effect, reaching and impacting countless lives across our province. They represent the power of community, the strength of the people and places that make BC remarkable. 

Looking Ahead: A Continued Partnership for Change 

At BC Achievement, we are proud of our long-standing relationship with Teck, and we salute its ongoing support in helping us honour the exceptional individuals who make our province proud. Together, we are amplifying voices, telling stories, and inspiring others to follow in the footsteps of those who are shaping the future of BC. 

As we look ahead, we are excited about the continued partnership with Teck and other like-minded organizations that share our vision. It’s a relationship built on trust, shared values, and a mutual commitment to creating positive change. Together, we’re celebrating excellence—and we’re helping to pave the way for others to follow through these incredible stories of achievement. 

Thank you, Teck, for your continuing support. Here’s to the next chapter in our remarkable journey. 

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

Honouring Black History Month: Celebrating Black Community Achievers in BC 

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Photo: Community Award program alumni Marcus Mosely (left) and Lolly Bennett (right)

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the profound contributions of Black Canadians who have shaped British Columbia’s cultural, economic, and social landscape. Throughout history, Black British Columbians have demonstrated leadership and innovation across various sectors, leaving an indelible mark on the province. 

Today, Black British Columbians continue to inspire and lead across communities. Among them is Marcus Mosely, a celebrated gospel singer and community advocate who was honoured with the 2024 BC Achievement Community Award of Distinction for his contributions to arts and culture. His work brings people together through music, fostering connection and cultural appreciation across generations. 

The impact of Black leadership is also recognized through Lolly Bennett, a passionate advocate for Indigenous and Black communities and a 2018 BC Achievement Community Award recipient. Her work in community engagement and empowerment has made a lasting difference in advancing equity and social justice. 

BC Achievement Foundation is dedicated to honouring excellence and inspiring achievement across all communities. Through the awards and recognition programs, BC Achievement shines a spotlight on individuals and organizations that are driving positive change and fostering reconciliation, diversity, and inclusion. 

As we celebrate Black History Month, we acknowledge the importance of continued efforts to highlight and support Black artists, business owners, educators, and community advocates who contribute to British Columbia’s diverse and dynamic society. 

Ways to Participate: Events Celebrating Black History Month in BC 

There are many ways to engage with Black History Month in British Columbia. Here are some events to check out: 

  • Film Screenings and Panel Discussions – Local cinemas and community centres hosting screenings of films that highlight Black history and contemporary issues, followed by expert panel discussions. 
  • Workshops and Educational Talks – Schools, universities, and libraries offering workshops on Black history, identity, and contributions to Canadian society. 
  • Community Art Exhibits – Showcasing works by Black artists in galleries and cultural spaces across BC. 

Black History Month is a time to celebrate resilience, excellence, and the ongoing journey towards equity and inclusion.  

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

Last Chance to Nominate for a BC Achievement Award! 

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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. 

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. 

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.

Celebrating the 2024 BC Reconciliation Award Recipients 

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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.

BC Cabinet & First Nations Leaders’ Gathering 

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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.

Celebrating Success: BC Achievement’s 2023-2024 Annual Report 

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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.  

BC Achievement Award Programs: Nominations for 2025 accepted until Feb 15th! 

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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. 

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.  

January – a gateway to new possibilities 

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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.  

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.