Photo (L to R): Dom Bautista, Her Honour, the Honourable Janet Austin Lieutenant Governor of BC, Dr. Faisal Khosa, Amber Anderson, C.C.C.
The 2022 Community Award presentation ceremony held in Victoria on May 10 included not just the current award recipients as there were also a number of program alumni in the room. All six recipients of the Mitchell Award of Distinction gathered together for the first time!
The annual Mitchell Award of Distinction designation, established in 2017 as part of the Community Award program, recognizes an individual who, through his or her work and volunteer activities, demonstrates an exceptional commitment to elevating the community in which they live, and those who serve it. The recipient has a unique and selfless leadership style that encourages and inspires the full participation of those he or she leads. For each of the last six years, one of the recipients of the Community Award has been selected to receive the Mitchell Award of Distinction designation.
These outstanding leaders have received the Mitchell Award designation to date: George Laverock (2017), Kim van der Woerd (2018), Ellen Woodsworth (2019), Dom Bautista (2020), Amber Anderson, C.C.C. (2021), and Dr. Faisal Khosa (2022).
Dr. Faisal Khosa is a leader in reducing systemic barriers. Through hands-on equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism workshops, seminars, and through mentoring he has empowered others to become ambassadors for EDI, ensuring a sustainable legacy of inclusive excellence in BC.
Chef Amber Anderson’s accomplishments in establishing a culinary training school and café for those living in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside with the Hope Action Values Ethics (HAVE) Culinary Training Society have had a huge impact on the community.
Dom Bautista’s commitment to providing equal access to justice through the Amici Curiae Friendship Society (AC) earned him the recognition in 2021. AC’s services are provided on the principle of equal access to justice in response to the challenges that British Columbians face to access legal services.
Founder of Women Transforming Cities International Society and a two-term Vancouver city councillor, Ellen Woodsworth has served on numerous boards, committees and task forces. An urban consultant and speaker using an intersectional lens, she is a remarkable force for justice, inclusion and equality.
Kim van der Woerd’s volunteer work with the YWCA has contributed to progress on a multitude of issues: the full engagement of Indigenous peoples in economy and society, women’s health and reproductive rights, the mentorship of young Indigenous professionals, and support for women’s equality. Through her company Reciprocal Consulting, Kim advances culturally responsive evaluation, research and storytelling.
George Laverock has made a lasting difference through his accomplishments in public broadcasting, arts administration and non-profit governance while mentoring the next generation of musicians. His volunteer involvement with the Vancouver Chamber Choir and the Canadian Music Centre, to name a few, along with countless hours on numerous boards, has created a legacy for musical arts and culture in British Columbia.
If you know someone who makes a positive difference in your community, a person who works to make your community strong, compassionate, and vibrant, nominate them for the 2023 Community Award. Entering its 20th year, BC Achievement’s annual Community Award program celebrates the spirit, dedication and outstanding contributions of British Columbians. Join us in telling the remarkable stories of our great province and its peoples and inspire others. Nominations open December 1, 2022.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.