Skwálwen (skwall – win) creates small batch botanical skin care products based on Indigenous Plant Science while honouring traditional Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) plant knowledge. Its products incorporate wild harvested plants with organic, high quality ingredients. As an ethnobotanist and researcher, Founder Leigh Joseph aims to contribute to cultural knowledge renewal by drawing on teachings learned from family and community members in connection to Indigenous plants. Skwálwen provides a platform to share these stories while increasing Indigenous representation in the skincare sector. Along with donating product for events, raffles and community use, Skwálwen has planted hundreds of Indigenous plants back onto the lands in partnership with Indigenous youth.
BC Achievement is an independent foundation established in 2003 that honours excellence and inspires achievement in British Columbia.