A toast is in order for the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), following the win of a BC Achievement Foundation business award by its development corporation Nch’ḵay̓.
The corporation is one of eight winners of the foundation’s annual business awards, nabbing the Community-Owned Business of the Year – Two or More Entities award. Other recognitions dished out at the annual awards include the likes of Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Business Partnership of the Year.
Mindy Wight, CEO of Nch’ḵay development, said the team at Nch’ḵay have long been aware of the provincial awards, now in it’s 16th year, and regard it as an “an honour” to be chosen as winners.
“The acknowledgment is incredibly significant to us,” said Wight. “It’s a prestigious recognition that celebrates our achievements and inspires us to continue leading by example.”
Wight said the recognition reflects the dedication and hard work of Nch’ḵay’s entire team, and the support of its community.
“We take immense pride in our mission, and this award validates our efforts to create a positive, sustainable impact for the Squamish people,” she said.
Founded in 2018, Nch’ḵay development was established to develop, manage, and own the business facet of the Squamish Nation.
In its relatively short time, the organization has overseen the development of a number of large-scale projects, including a plan announced earlier this year to develop 350 acres of Squamish Nation reserve land.
The project will focus on North Shore locations, including the Marine Drive area of Xwmélch’sten Capilano I.R. No. 5 near Capilano Road, and the Ch’ich’élx̱wí7 ḵw Seymour Indian Reserve No. 2 near Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Crossing, alongside locations on the Sunshine Coast and in the District of Squamish.
Wight said the award highlights the importance of businesses like Nch’ḵay that are Indigenous-led and contribute to the broader economy, all while “staying true” to their cultural roots.
“Nch’ḵay̓ was recognized because of our commitments to driving economic reconciliation, sustainable development, cultural preservation, and, of course, contributing to a prosperous future for the Squamish people,” she said.
“We have always prioritized Squamish values, ensuring that all business initiatives align with our values and contribute meaningfully to the prosperity of our Nation as a whole, but also of individual Squamish entrepreneurs.”
This award is a testament to the organization’s holistic approach to business, she said, “where profit is balanced with purpose.”
The award is a milestone to be celebrated, said Wight, but it is also a reminder that Nch’ḵay's journey is ongoing. While much success has been had, there is plenty more to come, and the future of the development organization is a bright one, she said.
“We plan to continue expanding our ventures in ways that benefit our people while respecting our culture and values, ensuring that every step forward is in harmony with our long-term vision for economic self-reliance,” she said.
“We remain committed to building a future where our people thrive – economically, culturally, and spiritually. Together, we can continue to create a legacy of prosperity and pride for future generations.”
Wight will be joining other members of Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation and the wider Squamish Nation community in celebrating the award come Oct. 7, when Vancouver’s Fairmont Hotel hosts a formal gala ceremony. Open to the public, tickets are available to be purchased online until Aug. 31, at the BC Achievement Foundation website.
Mina Kerr-Lazenby is the North Shore News’ Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
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