Susan Point, O.C., RCA., DFA., D.Litt. (1952–) is a descendant of the Musqueam, Coast Salish peoples; she is the daughter of Edna Grant and Anthony Point. Susan inherited the beliefs of her culture and ancestral traditions of her people from her mother Edna – who learned from her mother, Mary Charlie-Grant. Susan’s distinct style has inspired a movement in Coast Salish art. She draws creativity from the stories of her ancestors and forged the use of non-traditional materials and techniques, therefore inspiring a whole new generation of artists. Susan is an Officer of the Order of Canada, and has been presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her contributions to Canada. She has been recognized with an Indspire Achievement Award, a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, a B.C. Creative Achievement Award, appointed lifetime member to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, was listed one of B.C’s 100 Most Influential Women, and was named one of Vancouver’s 2012 Remarkable Women. Susan has Honorary Doctorates from the University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, the University of B.C. and Emily Carr University of Art and Design. In 2016, Susan was a recipient of the City of Vancouver’s Civic Merit Award.
Award Year: 2016
Karen Gilmore
Through the dedication of remarkable leadership and time to the YWCA, Karen Gilmore embodies its mission to touch lives and build a better future for women and their families. Her commitment to the Metro Vancouver YWCA has continued, unwavering, for more than 20 years, with hundreds of hours of volunteer service and mobilizing her own resources to solve problems as they arose. Two years ago, she joined the YWCA Canada Board of Directors, helping to shape the movement by providing strategic direction. Karen inspires people throughout the organization as a valuable mentor to its next generation of emerging leaders.
Shelagh Turner
As Executive Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Kelowna branch, Shelagh Turner consistently brings remarkable commitment to her role. She transformed the organization over the course of 11 years through strong leadership and dedication to making significant changes in the community. Known for her ability to ignite a shared compassion in others by addressing mental health issues, Shelagh builds strength in those she leads. Her efforts through staff engagement and raising awareness are pulling the right people together to deliver what the community needs to ensure that Kelowna strives to be a mentally healthy city.
4TR Ventures Ltd.
4TR Ventures is a nursery and hothouse producing high quality, sustainably grown vegetable transplants and propagation shrubs with a focus on re-vegetation. The company recently acquired two commercial grade hothouses. A partnership with Thompson Rivers University trained students in basic horticulture.
BC Achievement Community Award 2016
Raghwa Gopal
Technology and entrepreneurial advancement drive Raghwa’s commitment and community involvement. He mentors young entrepreneurs and fosters their advancement through his organization, Accelerate Okanagan. Through citizen engagement and his own effort, Raghwa continuously strives to make Kelowna a destination for technology companies. He’s just as committed to volunteerism on both the individual and corporate levels, sharing his passion and serving as an example to Kelowna and the wider world.
David Young
As Chief Executive Officer of Sources, David Young is being honoured as a vocal and compassionate advocate for society’s most vulnerable people. Under David’s guidance, Sources promotes social wellness in Surrey, White Rock, Delta, Langley, Prince George and beyond. The agency delivers support to all levels of society — people coping with isolation, addiction, poverty and conflict. David’s leadership is never far from the people he serves and his creative vision will leave a lasting legacy for both those in need and those who contribute. Through his mentorship, David has developed a team of ambitious and dedicated individuals who have passionately promoted the collective vision of work, shelter, food, help and hope for all.
Alpha-Omega Productions
Alpha-Omega productions is a full service video production company including still photography. Services include: documentaries, promotional videos, corporate communications, weddings, location scouting, editing and equipment rentals. Alpha-Omega gives back by volunteering for non-profits such as WE Day Vancouver and others.
BC Achievement Indigenous Business Award 2016
John Hatchett
Sun Peaks has health services because John Hatchett brought them there. He led the fundraising and community effort to build a facility to serve fifteen hundred people in his ski community. He also raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the facility. His dedication inspired 25 people to follow his example and volunteer for Sun Peaks health services. John’s energy is contagious and his loyalty is unquestionable. His volunteer spirit is reflected in many achievements in addition to health care and John never hesitates to serve his mountain community.