Photo: 2024 Community Award Emerging Leaders, Rishika Selvakumar, Connally McDougall (top row), Christopher Lee & Janna Wale (bottom row)
In today’s rapidly evolving world, leadership isn’t bound by age or tradition. Recognizing this, we introduced the emerging leader category to the 2024 Community Award program, shining a spotlight on the incredible contributions of young people across British Columbia. This new category celebrates their accomplishments and encourages others to drive positive change in their communities. BC Achievement caught up with this year’s emerging leaders who we were privileged to honour at Government House in early May.
Christopher Lee: A Catalyst for Youth Empowerment
At just fifteen, Christopher Lee has already made a significant impact. As the co-founder of Helping Hearts Youth Foundation, Christopher has turned his passion for service into a thriving youth-led nonprofit. With over one hundred volunteers, Helping Hearts has raised more than $30,000 for various causes under his leadership.
Christopher’s influence goes beyond fundraising; he mentors younger students and fosters a culture of inclusion and empowerment. His hands-on approach ensures every event is meticulously executed, from providing meals in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside to distributing back-to-school care packages. Christopher is proof that age is no barrier to making a difference.
Reflecting on his recognition, Christopher expressed gratitude for the Community Award program, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging youth contributions. “Youth are a demographic that aren’t usually recognized for their achievements,” he noted. “By recognizing community leaders and those who serve, we give a chance for people like me to see those who’ve led in the past, paving a way for future leaders.”
Connally McDougall: Challenging the Status Quo
Connally McDougall’s journey as the founder of Connally Goods showcases the power of creativity, sustainability, and social justice. Her clothing brand is more than a business; it’s a platform challenging systemic oppressions like fatphobia, sexism, and ableism. Connally’s designs are bold statements of inclusion, crafted with ethically sourced materials and produced locally in Vancouver.
As a designer with disabilities, Connally amplifies underrepresented voices and advocates for body liberation. Her commitment to social causes, such as the Pace Society Vancouver and The Addison Fund for Pediatric Organ Transplant, highlights her dedication to making a difference.
Connally’s surprise at receiving the Community Award speaks to her humility and dedication. She reflected on the significance of recognizing community service, stating, “It sparks dialogue across a spectrum of demographics and allows us the opportunity to learn about community service initiatives in fields that we otherwise may not research or discover.” For Connally, this recognition validates her efforts to build a more inclusive world.
Rishika Selvakumar: A Champion for Mental Health and Sustainability
Rishika Selvakumar’s commitment to mental health and sustainability is evident in her contributions to organizations like the Acne Education Project UBC and Mentoring the Stars Foundation. Her volunteer work spans a range of initiatives, from educational panels to donation drives, all aimed at creating a positive impact.
Having recently completed her Master of Public Health at UBC, Rishika continues to pursue areas of interest to create change in the local and global community including research and projects in mental health, climate health, sexual health, and equity.
Reflecting on the importance of recognizing community service, Rishika noted, “Across our changing landscapes, it is imperative that we create supportive environments that recognize individuals and excellence in community service. This lends to continued inspiration and awareness of critical work being done in communities.”
Janna Wale: Bridging Indigenous and Western Knowledge
Janna Wale, a Gitxsan/Cree-Métis policy advisor and climate researcher, is making waves in the fight against climate change. Her work at the Canadian Climate Institute integrates Indigenous and Western ways of knowing, focusing on building resilience in Indigenous communities. Janna’s contributions have reached the global stage, where she has represented Indigenous youth at the UN Climate Change Conference.
As an emerging leader, Janna’s recognition through the Community Award program has bolstered her confidence and credibility in her field. She sees this recognition as a way to inspire others and strengthen community resilience. “By recognizing and acknowledging people’s work, it creates the opportunity for connection and knowledge sharing which will further help build resilience within our communities.”
The Importance of Recognizing Emerging Leaders
The stories of Christopher, Connally, Rishika, and Janna highlight the significance of the emerging leader category and the impact of sharing their journeys. These young individuals are true leaders, as they shape the present, drive change, and inspire others to join them. By acknowledging their contributions, we are celebrating excellence and encouraging a new generation of leaders to step forward and make their mark.
In a world where challenges are increasingly complex, the fresh perspectives, energy, and innovation brought by young leaders are invaluable. The emerging leader category is a powerful statement and recognition that leadership knows no age, and that the contributions of young people are essential to building stronger, more inclusive communities across the province.
BC Achievement is grateful to KPU Foundation for their commitment as a Supporting Sponsor of the 2024 Community Award program. KPU Foundation’s engagement supports our mission of honouring excellence to inspire achievement by recognizing the remarkable individuals who contribute to the vitality and resilience of communities across British Columbia.
Congratulations again to the 2024 recipients. We cannot wait to see what they do next. Stay tuned!
Do you know someone in your community who is doing exceptional work? Honour their contributions by nominating them for a BC Achievement award. Whether it’s an emerging leader, innovative entrepreneur, a dedicated community leader, or a visionary artist, their incredible work deserves recognition. #nominatenowbc.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.
Celebrating the transformative achievements of Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs
Vancouver, BC (August 13, 2024): The BC Achievement Foundation announces the recipients of the 16th annual Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program. This annual award honours the exceptional achievements of Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs, partnership entities, and community-owned enterprises. As one of the five flagship programs of BC Achievement, this initiative recognizes and celebrates excellence, fostering inspiration across the province.
“This year’s IBA recipients demonstrate remarkable entrepreneurship and show an unyielding commitment to driving economic growth and fostering community well-being,” said Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation. “Their accomplishments serve as a powerful reminder of the significant impact Indigenous businesses have in shaping a prosperous and inclusive future for all British Columbians. BC Achievement is pleased to serve as a platform to showcase these business leaders.”
Marking its 16th year, the IBA program continues to highlight inspiring stories of Indigenous business excellence. By showcasing these successes, the awards drive change and strengthen connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous economies in British Columbia. With over 225 distinguished business leaders among its alumni, the IBA program stands as a testament to the thriving Indigenous business community.
The awardee selection was made by a distinguished jury panel, including T,łalisam, Dr. Kim van der Woerd of ’Namgis Nation, and an alumna of both the IBA and the BC Achievement Community Award programs; Ernie (Bones) George, Chief Executive Officer at Inlailawatash LP; and Tim Low, ANTCO Board President and member of Métis Nation BC.
The recipients will be honoured at a formal gala ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Monday, October 7, 2024. The event is open to the public and tickets can be purchased online at www.bcachievement.com. Early Bird tickets are available until August 31, priced at $250 per person. From September 1, ticket prices are offered at the regular rate of $275 per person. Awardees will receive a short film highlighting their entrepreneurial accomplishments, a cash prize, a certificate and medallion to commemorate their achievements and will be celebrated through an online campaign, #shinethelightbc.
Interviews with BC Achievement Foundation representatives and award recipients are available upon request. A media kit, including awardee backgrounders and high-resolution images, can be found here.
For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation and the Indigenous Business Award program, please visit www.bcachievement.com.
BC Achievement Foundation gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. The foundation also acknowledges with thanks supporting organizations: BC Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit, Union of BC Indian Chiefs, and Métis Nation BC. The IBA program is generously sponsored by Enbridge, Teck Resources Limited, TD Bank Group, OVINTIV, Vancity; KPMG, New Relationship Trust, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority; BC Transit, BC Hydro, Seaspan ULC, West Fraser; ANTCO, BC Lottery Corporation, Fortis BC Energy Inc., Shell Canada, TELUS, Trans Mountain; Beedie School of Business SFU; and Nk’Mip Cellars. BC Achievement is grateful to media sponsors: CFNR, Frog Radio, Global BC, Miss 604 and STIR magazine.
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About BC Achievement Foundation
Established in 2003, the BC Achievement Foundation is an independent organization dedicated to celebrating excellence in British Columbia. Through various programs such as the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design Award, the Community Award and the BC Reconciliation Award, BC Achievement honors the outstanding accomplishments of the province’s entrepreneurs, artists, community leaders, youth, and volunteers. By recognizing these exceptional individuals, the foundation aims to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation or the Indigenous Business Award program, please visit www.bcachievement.com.
Rup Grewal Communications Director BC Achievement Foundation T: 604-261-9777 (Ext 102) E: rup@bcachievement.com
2024 IBA Awardee – Backgrounders
Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Mo Dawson Creative City: Victoria
Mo Dawson is an Indigenous graphic recorder based on the unceded territory of the Lekwungen Peoples. He is Dzawada’enuxw from Gwa’yi (Kingcome Inlet, BC) and Gitxsan with roots in Gitanyow and Gitsegukla, BC. Mo has a background in professional cooking, working with top chefs across the country for nearly two decades. He trained in graphic recording with Shift-It Coach Christina Merkley and was mentored by Kelly Foxcroft-Poirier of White Raven Consulting.
His experience includes working with public agencies, non-profits, governments, and post-secondary institutions. Visual communication has been a vital part of his culture for generations, and Mo combines his artistic skills and Indigenous values to provide a unique graphic recording experience. At Mo Dawson Creative Graphic Recording, ideas come to life through visual storytelling, transforming complex concepts into engaging visuals that inspire and connect audiences.
Business of the Year – one-to-two person enterprise: Rad Relish Co. City: West Kelowna
Rad Relish Co. established in 2021 by Garrett Millsap, traces its origins to his grandmother’s zucchini relish recipe. Observing a scarcity of Indigenous-made food products in Canada, Millsap introduced Rad Relish, which has since expanded into a national brand available in local markets, grocery stores, and online. The product line features British Columbia-grown produce and is vegan, gluten-free and available in three flavours—Original, Smoked, and Spicy. The company has recently transitioned to environmentally friendly flex packaging, reducing its carbon footprint.
Garrett, a member of Métis Nation BC and a board member of the Kelowna Métis Association, is committed to supporting and mentoring Indigenous entrepreneurs. His vision includes hiring Indigenous employees and promoting Métis products. Rad Relish, inspired by Métis elder Peggy Millsap’s zucchini recipe, combines unique flavors of turmeric, mustard seed and is made with West Kelowna-grown zucchini.
Business of the Year – three-to-ten person enterprise: AshFireWear City: Cranbrook
Ashley O’Neil, a member of the Ktunaxa Nation, is the owner and designer of AshFireWear. With nearly two decades of firefighting experience, both as a structural and wildland firefighter, Ashley identified a gap in women-specific personal protective equipment (PPE). Prior to firefighting, she worked in the oil patch, where she realized the absence of fire-resistant gear for women. In response, she founded AshFireWear in 2020, offering custom-fitted, environmentally friendly PPE made from 100% natural materials. The company’s products include eco-friendly fire-resistant spray, brass zippers, and cotton-wool blend thread, and cater to female firefighters, miners, oil field workers, and others.
Beyond her business, Ashley coordinates training programs on BC reservations, teaches and certifies new firefighters, and is bringing back cultural burning practices in the Kootenays. Additionally, she works with non-Indigenous communities with prescribed burning practices to mitigate uncontrollable wildfires. As a respected instructor, medic, and crew leader, she is dedicated to enhancing firefighter safety and efficiency.
Business of the Year 11 + person enterprise: KICA Contracting Ltd. City: Dease Lake
Kimberly Marion is the visionary behind KICA Contracting Ltd., a 100% Tahltan-owned business she founded to address the lack of Indigenous employment opportunities in the resource sector. Starting with just four staff members in a small catering operation, KICA has grown into a thriving enterprise, employing over 100 people and servicing up to eight camps. With 85% of its workforce composed of Tahltan staff, KICA empowers Indigenous peoples to advance their careers while promoting fair wages and employee well-being.
Originally from Iskut, BC, Kim splits her time between Telegraph and Dease Lake. For the past 25 years, she has been deeply involved in her community, particularly through volunteering in recreational sports and her dedication to the Dease Lake Recreational Centre Society. Kim tirelessly works to complete the Centre, including the installation of an ice plant, and enjoys organizing fundraisers to support this dream. Her commitment to both her business and community showcases her unwavering dedication to uplifting her people.
Community-owned Business of the Year – one entity: Ahous Adventures City: Tofino
Ahous Adventures, an eco and cultural adventure tour company owned by the Ahousaht Nation, is dedicated to promoting authentic Indigenous experiences. The company fosters a guest-host relationship based on traditional Ahousaht values of respect and reciprocity. Through its tours, Ahous Adventures shares the beauty and wisdom of Ahousaht haḥuułii (territorial lands, waters, and culture) with visitors, contributing to economic development, environmental stewardship, and cultural revitalization within the community.
Located in Načiks (Tofino), British Columbia, Ahous Adventures offers a variety of excursions, including tours to Hot Springs Cove, whale watching, and bear watching. The company aims to promote Ahousaht culture, language, history, and storytelling through immersive tourism experiences, providing employment opportunities and generating revenue for the community. Ahous Adventures also supports environmental conservation and cultural revitalization initiatives, empowering future generations to uphold Ahousaht traditions and values.
Community-owned Business of the Year – two or more entities: Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation City: West Vancouver
Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation (Nch’ḵay̓) aims to promote sustainable economic development and empowerment for the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Stélmexw (Squamish People). The company strives to create opportunities for socio-economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and foster self-sufficiency for the Nation and its People. Nch’ḵay̓ supports the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw by generating wealth and creating prosperity through economic opportunities for current and future generations in a way that is consistent with Sḵwx̱wú7mesh values and teachings.
Founded in 2018 with two employees, the Squamish Nation’s economic development arm has grown significantly in recent years; today, Nch’ḵay̓ has 122 employees, including 58 Squamish People and 13 members of other First Nations across its head office and operating businesses. Since its inception, Nch’ḵay̓ has made notable progress in expanding its project portfolio, diversifying revenue streams, and establishing itself as a leader in Indigenous economic development.
Notable projects include the Sen̓áḵw development, which, alongside various other real estate development projects on the horizon for Nch’ḵay̓, will transform Vancouver’s landscape and deliver long-term socio-economic benefits to the Squamish Nation community.
Business Partnership of the Year: Seven Generations Environmental Services City: Mission
Seven Generations Environmental Services (SGES), an environmental services company owned by six Stólō First Nations communities, (Sq’ewá:lxw First Nation; Chi’yaqtel First Nation; Yeqwyeqwí:ws First Nation; Leq’á:mel First Nation; Áthelets First Nation, and Sq’ewqéyl First Nation) was established in 2011 as a result of an Impacts Benefit Agreement with BC Hydro for their Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Project. This hydro project provided an economic opportunity for Stólō communities to participate in a major project within their territory, leading to the formation of SGES/Seven Generations Environmental Services Ltd.
SGES was founded upon the traditional and cultural values of their Stó:lō owners and is dedicated to sustaining natural resources and the environment for future generations. The company aims to become a leading Indigenous-owned provider of environmental monitoring and site restoration services in BC. With a team of environmental professionals, SGES offers services including environmental consulting, construction and infrastructure monitoring, compliance monitoring programs, and planting and restoration. The company’s core values include building Indigenous capacity through education and training, promoting self-reliance, and developing creative economic strategies.
Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik) City: Anacla
Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik) is a distinguished leader who exemplifies the essence of the Indigenous Business Award of Distinction, having dedicated his life to fostering Indigenous business activities for his Nation. 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. 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. His work stands as a testament to the transformative power of economic reconciliation.
Exciting news! For the first time, nominations for all five of BC Achievement’s award programs are open year-round. This change means you can now celebrate the remarkable achievements of BC’s entrepreneurs, community leaders, and artists anytime by submitting nominations throughout the entire year.
Do you know someone in your community who is doing exceptional work? Now you can honour their contributions by nominating them for a BC Achievement award whenever the moment strikes. Whether it’s a groundbreaking entrepreneur, a dedicated community leader, or a visionary artist, their incredible work deserves recognition.
Nominations are open 24/7, giving you the flexibility to submit your nominations at your convenience. However, if you want your nomination to be considered for a 2025 award program, make sure to submit it before February 15, 2025. Nominations received after this date will be accepted but considered for the following year’s award programs.
Submit a nomination
Nomination is considered in
On or before February 15, 2025
2025
After February 16, 2025
2026
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary individuals who make our province great. Nominate someone today and help us celebrate the outstanding talent and dedication found throughout British Columbia!
Make Your Nomination Count
From January 1 to February 15, we will be running our Call for Nominations campaign, reminding you to make a submission. Nominating is straightforward and convenient—all done online through bcachievement.com. We provide tips to help you craft a compelling nomination package, including guidance on what makes a strong nominator statement, selecting impactful images, and using YouTube or news articles to support your nominee’s contributions. If you need any assistance, BC Achievement staff are always ready to help.
Our five annual programs celebrate excellence in various fields:
Indigenous Business Award: Elevates excellence within Indigenous-owned businesses. Categories include Business of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Community-Owned, and Business Partnership of the Year.
Polygon Award in First Nations Art: Celebrates artistic excellence in traditional and contemporary visual arts by First Nations artists.
Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design: Honours excellence in functional art and design.
Community Award: Honours excellence and inspiring achievement in community service and leadership.
BC Reconciliation Award: Recognizes individuals, groups, and organizations committed to furthering the principles of reconciliation.
If you know someone who demonstrates excellence in their field or through their community contributions, don’t wait! Nominate them by February 15, 2025, to ensure they are considered for a 2025 award.
Nominations are open year-round at bcachievement.com. Be part of the movement to elevate excellence and drive change in BC—and nominate today!
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.
Photo: 2021 First Nation Art award recipient, James Harry
James Nexw’Kalus-Xwalacktun Harry, a 2021 First Nations Art award recipient, is redefining the landscape of Indigenous design. James’s work merges traditional and contemporary elements, creating a unique artistic blend of his Squamish Nation heritage. His journey reflects his exceptional talent and creativity and his commitment to honouring his culture.
James’s artistic path is deeply influenced by his father, Xwalacktun, a well-established Squamish Nation carver and recipient of the Award of Distinction, Polygon Award in First Nations Art.
Growing up under the tutelage of Xwalacktun, James was immersed in the world of Indigenous art from an early age. Watching his father carve intricate designs into wood, he developed a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind each piece. “My dad, he’s been an amazing mentor teaching kids about Coast Salish art. I was really surrounded by a lot of people in my life who have made a lot of positive change around identity.”
In secondary school, James began his career as an artist by carving the doors of the BC Aboriginal Sports Hall of Fame. He later attended Emily Carr University of Art and Design, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in 2014. The YVR Art Foundation honoured James with the Career Artist Scholarship in 2011 and resulted in “From Sea to Sky”, a 6’ high aluminum totem pole that emits LED lights through Coast Salish iconography cut by water jet.
By combining the use of modern tools, materials and techniques, James integrates the traditional with the contemporary. “I have to start from a piece of wood or a block of wood, it gets ingrained in my DNA, that way I can then bring it into the computer, change the curvature quickly as opposed to having to start over again.”
James envisions a future where Indigenous design is not only respected but celebrated globally. He is working on several projects that aim to bridge the gap between Indigenous art and mainstream design. One such initiative is his collaboration with his life partner and fellow artist. “Dreamweaver, a collaboration with my partner Lauren Brevner, was done in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement through Coast Salish iconography – thinking about the history through this Indigenous lens, talking about it through Coast Salish ways of knowing.”
More recently, James and Lauren (KWÍKWI) produced a 2023 joint solo exhibit The Seventh. Together, KWÍKWI acknowledges the timeless presence of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, and səlilwətaɬ peoples and their territories. Their explorations honour and respect how these extensive relationships have shaped the diverse communities that have developed here, especially the rich and culturally diverse local neighbourhoods in the city.
James’s work continues to inspire and challenge both his fellow artists and the broader community. With a unique capacity for developing thematically significant work that connects all people to the ecology of place while building a greater understanding between cultures, his process brings people together, changes ideas, and leaves a legacy to remind the community that transformations can occur.
Photo: 2024 IBA Co-Directors, Geena Jackson and Chief Gibby Jacob
We are thrilled to announce that Geena Jackson and Chief Gibby Jacob will be the Co-Directors of Ceremonies for the 2024 Indigenous Business Award (IBA) Gala, taking place on October 7 at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. This highly anticipated event is the place to be for anyone interested in Indigenous business in British Columbia.
Meet Geena Jackson
Geena Jackson whose traditional name is Tsetasiya (‘Sa-TAS-ee-ya’) returns for her third year as Co-Director of the IBA Gala, bringing her experience and passion for celebrating Indigenous business excellence. As a devoted advocate for Indigenous rights, self-determination, and economic development, Geena has over 25 years of experience serving First Nation communities and the industry at large. A proud member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt), she is deeply committed to strengthening Indigenous communities through strategic partnerships with industry experts and government bodies.
Geena has been instrumental in helping over 800 Indigenous entrepreneurs grow their businesses and social enterprises. Her commitment to Indigenous economic growth is further exemplified by her creation of the Bears’ Lair TV show on APTN, where she serves as a core judge. This unique platform supports Indigenous entrepreneurs on a national scale, offering exposure, guidance, and opportunities to scale their ventures, with a grand prize of $100,000.
Additionally, Geena has created the Bears’ Lair Youth Dream Camps, teaching Indigenous youth aged 11-18 across Canada about entrepreneurship, life skills, and creating tools for future success. In 2023, she facilitated 25 camps and is well on her way to facilitating 40 additional camps in 2024, educating, elevating, and inspiring over 1,000 Indigenous youth nationwide.
Meet Chief Gibby Jacob
Joining Geena this year is Chief Gibby Jacob, a distinguished leader and the 2017 IBA Award of Distinction recipient. Chief Gibby, whose ancestral name is Kákeltn siyám, is a hereditary Chief and a member of the Squamish Nation in North Vancouver, British Columbia. He is a man of quiet power, recognized twice with Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 Award, and honored with The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, The BC Aboriginal Lifetime Achievement Award, and The Senate 150th Anniversary Medal.
Under Chief Gibby’s leadership, the Squamish Nation exponentially increased its business revenue, royalties, and real estate assets. He played a pivotal role in brokering the deal that established the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler and the 2010 Olympic land legacy, resulting in the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations gaining several tracts of land in the Whistler community.
Chief Gibby’s knowledge and experience provide direction and liaison duties for special projects and files, including negotiations between various levels of government, stakeholders, partners, and the Nation on projects dealing with natural resources, accommodation, and consultation. His leadership and vision are highly anticipated to bring a fresh and inspiring perspective to the gala.
A Night to Celebrate Excellence
The 2024 Indigenous Business Award Gala is set to be an extraordinary evening of celebrating excellence in the Indigenous economy. This event is an opportunity to honor outstanding achievements, network with industry leaders, and be part of a vibrant community that supports and uplifts Indigenous businesses.
Don’t miss out on this incredible event. Get your early bird tickets now and be part of a night that celebrates the strength, innovation, and success of Indigenous businesses in BC.
Chief Gibby’s wise words resonate deeply: “It is by paddling together that we can create a future for our Nation. One that learns from the past, lives in the present, and builds for the future.”
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.
