Nominations close on Tuesday, Feb. 11 for the fifth annual Provincial Nesika Awards. Nominees and the five award recipients will be recognized at the awards event in Vancouver on April 4, 2014. Five categories are open for nomination: individual, business, organization, youth and new this year - multicultural excellence in government.

Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism Teresa Wat said she encourages British Columbians to nominate individuals, organizations and businesses that make the effort to go the extra mile to embrace multiculturalism and celebrate our differences.

The provincial Nesika Awards started in 2008 to recognize the people, organizations and businesses whose exceptional work helps bring our diverse cultures together. The Province's Multicultural Advisory Council organizes and sponsors the awards to honour and celebrate British Columbia's cultural diversity and Aboriginal heritage.

All recipients will receive special recognition. Recipients in the first four categories will also receive $5,000 to further support the work of multiculturalism in the province.

Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on Feb. 11, 2014. For more information, eligibility requirements, or to download the Nesika Awards nomination form, visit: www.EmbraceBC.ca or email: MAC@gov.bc.ca

Learn More:

Embrace BC - Province of B.C. multiculturalism site: www.embracebc.ca

Welcome BC - Information and services for new British Columbians: www.welcomebc.ca

B.C. Multicultural Advisory Council: http://tinyurl.com/n4nvauv

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of International Trade
778 977-0298