The 14th annual Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards were held tonight (Friday) at the Quality Hotel and Conference Centre in Abbotsford.

The event featured Fred Lee – of CBC Radio One’s The Early Edition – as master of ceremonies, and CTV news anchor Tamara Taggart as guest speaker.

Entertainment was provided by saxophonist Karla Sleightholme.

The event was presented by Abbotsford Community Services in partnership with Mission and Chilliwack Community Services and the Langley-based New Directions English Langley School.

The Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards started in 2003 to recognize organizations and individuals that embrace diversity in the community.

Each year, the awards receive nominations for businesses, programs, initiatives, schools and leaders that work towards building an inclusive community.

Nominees are accepted from Abbotsford, Mission, Langley and Chilliwack.

2017 RECIPIENTS:

• Inclusive Environment (small organizations) – The Water Shed Arts Cafe, Langley

• Inclusive Environment (medium and large organizations) – University of the Fraser Valley

• Marketing – Seabird Island Health Services, Agassiz

• Innovative Initiative (small organizations) – Spill Ur Beanz, Fraser Valley

• Innovative Initiative (medium and large organizations) – Emma’s Acres, Mission

• Effective Human Resources Strategies – Correctional Service of Canada, National Employment Equity and Diversity Strategic Plan

• Champion of Diversity – Kanta Naik with the Abbotsford school district