Six community leaders have received awards for their ongoing efforts in supporting victims of crime, including initiatives focused on gender-based violence and restorative justice.
The 24th annual Community Safety and Crime Prevention Awards were held by a virtual ceremony this year.
“Those we honour with these awards are exemplary community-builders whose work helps those impacted by crime, violence, and victimization,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “This year’s recipients have helped people in their communities to live with less fear and more ability to just be themselves and live their lives in safety. I congratulate each of the winners and hope their work inspires others to consider how they, too, might help to further public safety in their communities across B.C.”
The awards acknowledge individuals, non-profit organizations, police and other local partners for their work in advancing crime prevention, restorative justice and other approaches that keep communities safer. These efforts support provincial initiatives in community safety, victim services, and policing.
“I want to extend my gratitude to all of this year’s award winners who have shown commitment and dedication in supporting people facing violence, and helping make B.C. safer and more inclusive,” said Grace Lore, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity. “These leaders for justice and the safety of those who are vulnerable has made a big difference in the lives of so many people and their communities.”
The Community Safety and Crime Prevention Awards were presented to:
- Wanda Watts, Smithers
- Karyn French, Victoria
- Meghan Ramsay, Kelowna
- Satbir Cheema, Surrey
- Mssko Wakil, Burnaby
- Aaron Pete, Chilliwack
Learn More:
Provincial information on community safety and crime prevention: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/crime-prevention/community-crime-prevention
To view the awards: https://youtu.be/fhvFV98eNls
A backgrounder with the award recipients’ biographies follows.