Four organizations and two individuals were presented with Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards in Abbotsford last Thursday (March 6).
A total of 330 guests attended the celebration at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Centre.
The awards were presented by Archway Community Services in partnership with Mission and Chilliwack Community Services, and Langley New Directions English Language School.
The event has been highlighting efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion across various areas since 2003.
Returning MC was Fred Lee, who recognized more than 50 nominees who exemplified their commitment to diversity.
Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens emphasized the importance of embracing diversity in the community.
“This annual gathering is an annual reminder of how our diversity brings us together, and that by celebrating what makes us unique, we are reminded of all that we have in common," he said.
The event also featured a keynote speech by Tareq Hadhad, the award-winning founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate. He shared his story of moving to Canada as a refugee from Syria and being embraced by the community of Antigonish, Nova Scotia.
“The beauty of Canada is that we believe that diversity is not just a buzzword,” Hadhad said. “We really believe that we are enriched by people who travel from everywhere across the globe.”
Tyler Stewart spoke on behalf of The Honda Way, the nominee sponsor.
“Diversity isn't just about representation. It's about embracing the perspectives that drive innovation and enrich our experiences. We believe diversity strengthens decision-making, fosters innovation and ensures every customer feels valued and understood," Stewart said.
Manpreet Grewal, the Archway director of Multicultural and Immigrant Integration Services, closed the evening by thanking sponsors, partners and staff.
Recipients of the 2025 Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards are:
• Beauty Boutique at Shoppers Drug Mart (Sumas Mountain Village in Abbotsford) in the category of Effective Human Resource Strategies – recognized for empowering women to achieve independence and confidence.
• VYPER – Visionary Youth Peers for Equity and Revitalization, based in Abbotsford, in the category of Innovative Initiative – for their youth-led movement dedicated to empowering Indigenous youth through leadership, community connection, and cultural resurgence, including the Reclaiming Youth Pow Wow, fostering language preservation, and traditional sports.
• Encompass Support Services Society, based in Langley, in the category of Inclusive Environment – a grassroots, non-profit agency recognized for providing space for youth to safely explore identity, connect with and be supported by peers and get creative.
• Purple Lights Nights Fraser Valley for Diversity in Marketing – recognized for raising awareness about intimate partner violence in Abbotsford and Mission through a community walk, participation in local events and other initiatives.
• Jeffrey Anh Khang Vu of Langley, Youth Champion of Diversity – recognized for giving back to his community as a mentor with Big Brothers and Big Sisters and a leader in cultural initiatives at Walnut Grove Secondary; serves on the BC and Fraser Youth Parliaments and works with Dear Asian Youth.
• Ashleyn Singh of Abbotsford, Champion of Diversity – co-founder of the Abbotsford Basketball Association, where she breaks barriers to sports access; recognized for championing social justice, mentoring students, leading inclusion initiative, and empowering diverse voices in the Abbotsford school district.
The Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards can be viewed on YouTube and diversityawards.ca.
