Abbotsford – The 2026 Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards welcomed 350 guests to the Clarion Hotel and Conference Centre on March 4, celebrating the individuals and organizations championing diversity and inclusion across the region.
Six awards were presented, honouring four outstanding organizations as well as two remarkable recipients in the Youth Champion of Diversity and Champion of Diversity categories.
Presented by Archway Community Services in partnership with Mission and Chilliwack Community Services, and Langley New Directions English Language School, the annual awards have highlighted exceptional efforts in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the Fraser Valley since 2003.
Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens welcomed attendees and congratulated the 64 individuals and organizations nominated across all five award categories.
“Your actions are truly an inspiration to us all, and you deserve to be celebrated,” said Siemens.
The event also featured an inspiring keynote speech by Adel Gamar, an internationally respected leadership expert and CEO of GLG Ltd.
Gamar recognized all the nominees doing the quiet work of building community and building “bridges where others see walls.” He reflected on Canada’s dark history but encouraged attendees that “we’re still learning, we’re still reconciling” and working towards “continual improvement and the idea that our country is always growing, working to become better, fairer, and more united.”
Returning emcee Fred Lee set an engaging and celebratory tone for the evening and encouraged attendees, “If you have been inspired tonight by our keynote speaker, or by the work of our nominees and recipients, let that inspiration continue beyond these walls. Share their stories, hear their stories, and celebrate the impact. And most importantly, continue supporting the efforts that strengthen and connect this beautiful community.”
Manpreet Grewal, the Archway Executive Director of Programs & Services, closed the evening by thanking sponsors, partners, the event committee and staff.
2026 Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards Recipients
Jane Njogu, Champion of Diversity
Njogu received the award for her volunteer efforts and work as MCCBC’s Homelessness Prevention & Outreach Coordinator, supporting inclusion of vulnerable neighbors through the Fraser Valley Rent Bank and community meals in Abbotsford.
Njogu called the award “a great, great honor” and shared about her passion for making sure “no one is left behind.” “When one has a roof over their head, especially as an immigrant or even any other person, you can begin again. You can dream again. You can start again.”
Elan Chow, Youth Champion of Diversity
Chow is a Grade 12 student from Abbotsford who is dedicated to advancing equity through anti-racism advocacy, food security initiatives, and inclusive music mentorship.
Stan Peterson, Abbotsford School Board Chair presented the award and shared that they support more than 100 languages in their schools and that “each of the cultures represented by those languages adds to the positive mosaic of our classrooms.”
Chow thanked organizations that accepted him in their community and pushed him to get involved. He thanked the Bakerview Music Academy where he teaches, the Thrive Leadership Program and the Student Voice at WJ Mouat School.
Waceya Métis Society, Inclusive Environment (Small organization)
Waceya Métis Society was recognized for their support of diversity through inclusive cultural programs for women, youth, 2SLGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent citizens across Langley, Township of Langley, White Rock and Abbotsford.
Free Store Chilliwack and Social Development Society, Inclusive Environment (Large organization)
Free Store Chilliwack and Social Development Society received the award for their work to create an inclusive, community-powered environment that reduces waste and increases access to essential goods through dignity, sustainability, and shared care.
Geographies of the Heart- Stories from Newcomers to Canada, Innovative Initiative
Geographies of the Heart – Stories from Newcomers to Canada brings to life the inspiring journeys of 18 newcomers, told in their own authentic and compelling voices.
One of the book’s editors, Raymonde Tickner, accepted the award and dedicated it to all the authors and supporters.
Mission Folk Music Festival Society, Intercultural Arts, Culture and Events
Mission Folk Music Festival Society was recognized for their efforts to bring people together by presenting diverse cultural experiences that celebrate music, stories, and community in Mission and the Fraser Valley.
Michelle Demers Shaevitz, artistic director of Mission Folk Music Festival, gratefully accepted the award on behalf of their board and 350 volunteers and spoke on creating “space of belonging and community” through their work.
