Indigenous Business Award Gala Photos 2022

The spectacular evening celebrated the contributions of extraordinary Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs across B.C.

On Tuesday, November 29, BC Achievement Foundation (BC Achievement) hosted the 2022 Indigenous Business Award Gala at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. More than 650 dynamic business and community leaders, including Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, The Honourable Janet Austin, and BC Achievement’s Executive Director Cathryn Wilson, joined together with Indigenous leaders, including Directors of Ceremonies, Carol Anne Hilton and Geena Jackson.

By recognizing outstanding people and businesses, the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) gives voice to Indigenous entrepreneurship while modelling success for others to follow. Now in its 14th year, the program counts almost 220 remarkable businesses among its alumni.

BC Achievement is an independent foundation that was established in 2003 to celebrate the spirit of excellence in our province and serves to honour the best of British Columbia. In addition to the IBA, the organization presents several established programs, including awards in First Nations Art and Applied Art + Design, as well as in reconciliation and community service.

By recognizing the accomplishments of our province’s entrepreneurs, artists, community leaders, youth and volunteers, BC Achievement’s award programs pay tribute to exceptional people, doing exceptional work, while carving a path forward for others to follow.

See below for photos from the gala…

Rick EtkinLeft to right: Chief Otis Guichon Sr. (Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd.), Donna Cranmer and Andrea Cranmer (Culture Shock Life), Ashley Kucher and Dustin Kucher (Dark Arc Welding Inc.), Chief David Jimmie (Award of Distinction),Trina Sxwithul’txw (M’i nuw’ilum DBA Cheanuh Marina), Dave Kitazaki (dk Architecture), Curtis Thomas (Warrior Plumbing) Chief John Allen French (Sasuchan Development Corporation)

Left to right: The Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia; Cathryn Wilson, Executive Director, BC Achievement Foundation; and Cloy-e-iis Judith Sayers, Board member, BC Achievement Foundation

Rick EtkinLeft to right: IBA Gala Directors of Ceremonies, Geena Jackson and (RIGHT) Carol Anne Hilton.

Rick EtkinWelcome remarks by Howard Grant, Executive Director of the First Nations Summit

Rick EtkinTsleil-Waututh Warriors lead the awardee procession and present an Honour Song to start off the IBA Gala