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ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Announces Recipients of 2024 Inclusive Growth Awards
ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Announces Recipients of 2024 Inclusive Growth Awards
Halifax, October 19, 2024 – The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Inclusive Growth Awards.
Halifax, October 19, 2024 – The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Inclusive Growth Awards, celebrating organizations and entrepreneurs across Canada who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). The awards recognize chambers of commerce, boards of trade, their members, and underrepresented entrepreneurs who are breaking down barriers and fostering an inclusive economy.
This year’s honourees represent a wide spectrum of industries and regions, highlighting the breadth of DEIA efforts taking place across the country. From supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to championing 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion, each recipient has shown a deep commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive economy.
Celebrating the Inclusive Growth Award recipients is more than just an acknowledgment; it’s a testament to the powerful change-makers who are continuously challenging the status quo. Their innovative approaches to diversity and inclusion are not only transforming their communities but also setting a bold standard for businesses nationwide.
- Diana Palmerin-Velasco, Senior Director, Future of Work at the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú
2024 Inclusive Growth Award Recipients
Chambers of Commerce / Boards of Trade
Halifax Chamber of Commerce
Read Initiative
Through the SURGE Community Initiative, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce is creating a more inclusive and equitable economy by supporting equity-deserving groups and cultivating diverse business networks. Their commitment is evident in impactful initiatives, including offering one-year complimentary membership to eligible entrepreneurs and establishing partnerships with a various local and national organizations. The Chamber has also been a pioneer in adopting the federal government’s 50/30 Challenge, implementing accessibility and inclusion practices at events, and organizing workshops that enhance capacity-building and training in DEIA.
Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC)
Read Initiative
CGLCC is dedicated to advancing DEIA for 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs nationwide. The organization has launched significant initiatives aimed at tackling systemic exclusion by embedding DEIA principles into its organizational practices.CGLCC’s strategy prioritizes long-term impacts, fostering sustainable and systemic change through a robust supplier diversity program and promoting economic reconciliation with Indigenous communities. Their initiatives include building internal capacity on Indigenous cultural competencies and nurturing a supportive environment for Canadian businesses through programs like Rainbow Registered and LGBTQI+ Newcomer.
Business Members of Chambers of Commerce / Boards of Trade
Bruce Power
Member of The Kincardine & District Chamber of Commerce, The Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce and the Huron Chamber of Commerce
Read Initiative
In the ever-evolving nuclear industry, diversity, equity and inclusion are at the forefront of Bruce Power’s organizational goals. Through its DEI strategy, Bruce Power is committed to creating equitable opportunities and fostering an inclusive work environment where employees feel valued for their unique contributions.
Programs like the Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) promote personal and professional growth, while the Indigenous Employment Program and Indigenous Career Launch Programs reflect the company’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities. Since 2014, Bruce Power has proudly maintained a GOLD certification as part of the Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) Program.
Vale Canada Limited
Member of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú
Read Initiative
In 2019, Vale Base Metals took decisive steps to connect Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with a multi-year business strategy based on shifting mindsets and ensuring its organizational systems and practices reflect an inclusive work environment. Committed to increasing the number of women in its workforce, Vale achieved 34% representation of women in senior leadership roles (Directors and above) by 2023. The company is also focused on advancing economic reconciliation and collaborating with Indigenous communities to identify opportunities for mutual benefit.
Not-for-profit Members of Chambers of Commerce / Boards of Trade
World Education Services (WES)
Member of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and the Toronto Region Board of Trade
Read Initiative
WES is a non-profit social enterprise that supports the educational, economic, and social inclusion of immigrants, refugees, and international students. For 50 years, WES has set the standard for international academic credential evaluation, supporting millions in achieving their academic and professional goals. Its main objective is to create pathways for newcomers pursuing educational and economic opportunities through credential evaluations, programs, and philanthropy. In 2023, WES completed nearly 500,000 credential evaluations spanning nearly 200 countries and territories, empowering newcomers to learn, work, and flourish in diverse environments.Â
Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN)
Member of Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Whitby Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce
Read Initiative
ODEN is a province-wide organization that connects businesses and employment service providers to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Over the last decade, ODEN has referred over 1,000 local job opportunities to over 713 employment service providers across Ontario, directly resulting in over 507 people with disabilities being hired. They have also developed the Disability Awareness and Confidence Training to support businesses improve their accessibility and inclusion practices.
Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Makaylah Rogers, Frankie D’s Donuts
Member of Bow Valley Chamber of Commerce
Read Initiative
Makaylah Rogers established Frankie D’s Donuts as a social impact organization created to start conversations about mental health in the community, and bring down walls by making hand-made Donut treats to be enjoyed during these sometimes-difficult conversations.
As a trauma survivor, queer and non-binary individual, Makaylah draws from their personal experiences and journey and firmly believes in the power of representation and the transformative impact of the message, “you’re not alone.”
Their advocacy work spans vital topics such as mental illness, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQIA+ education, suicide prevention, sexual violence prevention and more. Makaylah has been awarded the Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Award from the Bow Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Community Builder Award from the Rocky Mountain Outlook Best of the Bow and the YWCA Banff 2024 Changemakers Innovation Award.
Chef Zach Keeshig, Naagan
Member of Owen Sound Chamber of Commerce
Read Initiative
A proud member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation at Cape Croker Reserve, Zach Keeshig is revolutionizing the culinary world with his innovative approach to Indigenous cuisine. Chef Keeshig is the creative force behind Naagan, an exclusive 17-seat dining room at the Owen Sound Farmers Market. As a passionate educator and advocate for Indigenous culture, Chef Keeshig offers local tours and classes for Indigenous youth, fostering a deep connection to their heritage and teaching sustainable living practices. His commitment to cultural preservation and education extends to consulting on menu curation, ingredient sourcing, and promoting Indigenous-owned businesses for hotels, event planners, and destinations.
Awards Ceremony
The awards will be presented at the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s 2024 AGM & Convention on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The event will celebrate these outstanding recipients and their contributions to a more inclusive economy.