A celebration of leadership, generosity, and the people strengthening communities across British Columbia.
It was a privilege for Georgia Strait Alliance Executive Director Beatrice Frank to join the remarkable changemakers recognized through the 2026 BC Achievement Community Awards. One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to connect with recipients during the pre-reception gathering and throughout the afternoon ceremony, while sharing the occasion with family, friends, and GSA Board members Andy Beers and Max Mollineaux. The event brought together an inspiring group of people whose leadership and service are strengthening communities across British Columbia.
The leadership, generosity, and commitment to community demonstrated by each recipient was deeply inspiring. Each, in their own way, is helping strengthen the resilience, connectedness, and wellbeing of communities across the province—a meaningful source of hope in times that can often feel challenging.
The 2026 Community Awards
The Community Award program celebrates British Columbians who go above and beyond in service to others and their communities. The 2026 recipients were recognized on May 6 during a formal ceremony at Government House in Victoria in the presence of His Honour Sergio Cocchia, Vice-Regal Consort.
- Meet the 2026 BC Achievement Community Award Recipients
- Watch the recording of the ceremony
- View the photos
An Honour Shared
Although the award bears one name, Beatrice views it as a reflection of the collective effort behind GSA’s work.
“When I first arrived in British Columbia, I didn’t imagine that one day I would be recognized with the 23rd annual BC Community Award. As a newcomer, I simply hoped to find ways to contribute by listening, learning, and working alongside communities who care deeply about the places they call home.
This award recognizes leadership, generosity, and dedication, but for me, it reflects something shared. I feel incredibly proud to serve as the Executive Director of GSA, an organization grounded in community, collaboration, and care. This recognition is not mine alone. It belongs to our entire team at GSA. Every day, I have the privilege of working alongside people whose commitment, creativity, and determination make this work possible. Their passion is what drives real change on the ground.
Our work is shaped not only by our team, but by the many Indigenous Nations, community leaders, volunteers, partners and you—who bring knowledge, leadership, and heart to protecting our coast. Together, we are building something larger than any one individual: an approach to conservation rooted in relationships, respect, and shared responsibility.
As a conservation social scientist, I’ve always believed that healthy ecosystems and thriving communities are inseparable. Whether supporting grassroots initiatives, strengthening public engagement, or mentoring future changemakers, the goal remains the same: to create space for people to lead, connect, and care for the Salish Sea and for each other.”
Congratulations to Beatrice and to all of the 2026 BC Achievement Community Award recipients. We are grateful to be part of a province filled with people whose leadership, generosity, and dedication are helping communities thrive.