By Felicia Greekas

Walking off the elevator and into the reception area, there’s a definite feeling in the room, a buzz in the air.

Gathered are over 450 guests from regions across BC including the recipients of the 2009 awards and all those who support them.

There’s a strong excitement and pride in the room, as guests mingle and network amongst one another before the awards begin.

This is the first for the BC Aboriginal Business Awards hosted by the BC Achievement Foundation and the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation.

Guests are escorted into the gala for dinner and the awards presentations. In total, 23 awards were presented to Aboriginal businesses from across BC. Speakers included Shawn Atleo, Regional Chief of the BC Assembly of First Nations; Bruce Dumont, President of Metis BC; Hon. Michael de Jong; Keith Mitchell, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation with emcee Peter Lantin of Tricorp

Categories included Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Female and Male); Business of the Year (1-2 persons, 2-10 persons and 10+ persons); Community-Owned Business of the Year, Joint Venture Business of the Year and Individual Achievement Award.

Throughout the dinner the award presentations were made including a video clip of each showcasing their business in-action. Through this we are given a little insight into what they do and how they do it. Seeing what they go through on a day-to-day basis is helpful to bring some clarity. They are motivated and determined and in working together they show their partnerships, humour and passion for what they do.

An inspiring evening filled with excitement among a room full of business owners, supporters, chiefs and elders from First Nations across BC.

Three of our clients were recognized for their success: Cristy Johnson of Cristy’s Jewelry Designs receiving the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award; Danny Chase of Chase Office Interiors receiving the Business of the Year Award (2-10 persons) and recognized for outstanding achievement is Rhonda Dieni of Bikram’s Yoga College of India in North Vancouver.  

Possessing the strength and determination to make it this far, they’ve created businesses that work for them. With their passion and drive they’ve been rightfully recognized in their area of expertise.

Whether it’s contemporary jewelry design, office interior design or yoga and health, these Aboriginal entrepreneurs are showing us what is possible. It starts with a vision and brought them here.

Many young people were recognized throughout the awards for their outstanding achievement exuding Aboriginal talent allowing our youth some perspective into their own potential and what can be created.

The first BC Aboriginal Business Awards gala was a great success with next year’s awards sure to promise great talent in all areas of business from all communities throughout BC.

If you would like more information about the awards including video clips and photo highlights of the gala visit www.bcachievement.com.