17th Annual Victoria Community Leadership Awards
The 2021 Victoria Community Leadership Awards (VCLAs) celebrations culminated with a delightful gala on Sept 15, 2021, at the Deep Cove Winery in North Saanich. The event was held in accordance with Provincial health orders regarding Covid-19 and necessary safety protocols could not diminish the tributes which the evening highlighted. Emcee for the event, Jasmine Bala of CHEK TV, gave the evening an extra sparkle and delicious fare was safely provided through Truffles Catering.
Leadership Victoria Executive Director Mark Crocker and Board Chair Bryan Mavrow provided opening and closing comments including their own take on the VCLAs, the winners and the evening we were gathered for. Special guest speaker, Carey Newman, provided enlightenment and history relating to leadership in his Indigenous culture and in the local communities, Carey having been a 2020 VCLA winner himself.
This year’s ten winners’ stories were told in individual videos, in presentation comments with their awards and they were all spoken of with great admiration for the diverse work they perform in our local communities.
These community leaders were recognized for the passion, the dedication, and the hours they give so selflessly in order to improve and enrich the lives of others – and they do it oh so humbly. These leaders see a need and jump in to remedy a situation or lead the way for others to improve the situation. It was an honour to be part of celebrating such accomplished individuals, none of whom do their work expecting recognition. The evening was enjoyed so much by all the attendees – masks were on inside and the Deep Cove Winery spaces offered outdoor patios where attendees could be distanced and enjoy the fresh evening amongst the spectacular vineyards.
This wonderful event would not have been possible without Caroline Hudson, VCLA Lead Volunteer, Board Member and event organizer extraordinaire, and her fantastic team of volunteers. Caroline and her team went above and beyond during this pandemic year to put together a truly memorable and seamless event where the award recipients felt honoured and uplifted. They created a much needed moment of celebration and positivity despite all the challenges of the pandemic. Thank you to all volunteers, and especially Caroline for all your hard work and dedication!
The VCLA process for 2022 will get underway soon and nominations will open Jan 1/2022 for the upcoming year. Look for upcoming VCLA promotions on LV social media.
We again salute our 2021 VCLA winners in their individual categories and thank them for being who they are!
2021 VCLA Winners: Steven Baileys, Belonging & Engagement
Sage Lacerte, Extending Reconciliation
Sharlene Law, Healthy Standard of Living
Pulcherie Mboussi, Getting Started in our Community
Laila Pires, Arts & Culture
Grace Sinats, Flourishing Safe Environments
Jo-Ina Young, Lifelong Learning
Mena Westhaver, Thriving Children and Youth
John McEown, Health & Wellness
Sam Ariyo, Outstanding Leadership 2020-2021 CLDP